Watering Holes

In Korea, as in Canada, drinking is a big part of the social culture. There are innumerable bars (hofs in Korean), and every neighbourhood has its local(s). Unlike Canada, a thirsty patron can buy beer, wine, or soju at every convenience store, of which there are at least two on every block, usually open 24 hours. Canny store owners have figured out a way to draw in the crowds - any proprietor worth his or her salt pitches a patio table with umbrella on even the smallest patch of sidewalk space and passes out free paper cups with the beer. This offers less discriminating consumers, who may be loathe to buy a $6 beer in a pub, an affordable way to drink and watch the world go by.