Alcohol makers allowed to choose text or pictogram under new warning label system from September 2026

Alcohol products sold at a supermarket in Seoul are seen in this undated file photo. Yonhap

The government plans to introduce a new warning label system for alcoholic beverages that allows manufacturers to choose either a text warning or a pictogram starting next September, according to officials Saturday.

The health ministry, companies must newly include a drunk-driving warning on soju, beer and all other alcoholic products, but they may select one method of display — either a written warning text or an illustrated pictogram — under a revision to the enforcement rule of the National Health Promotion Act.

The changes aim to ensure consumers recognize the risks of alcohol consumption before drinking, according to officials.

The revised rules follow the legislative amendment to the National Health Promotion Act promulgated in March. To allow preparation time for the alcohol industry, the new labeling requirements will take effect Sept. 19, 2026.