Blood Alcohol Calculator

Korea has some of the strictest DUI laws in the world. The legal BAC limit was lowered from 0.05% to 0.03% in June 2019 (the so-called "Yoon Chang-ho Act", 윤창호법). This means even 1-2 drinks can put you over the limit.

Soju and BAC: A standard bottle of soju (소주, 360ml) is typically 16-17% ABV. For a 70kg male, just one bottle can raise your BAC to roughly 0.07% — well above the legal limit. Popular brands include Chamisul (참이슬), Chum Churum (처음처럼), and Jinro (진로).

Designated driver services (대리운전): Korea has a unique and affordable designated driver service called "daeri-unjeon" (대리운전). Instead of leaving your car behind, you call a service (through apps like Kakao T or T Map), and a professional driver comes to drive YOUR car home while you ride as a passenger. It typically costs 15,000~30,000 won depending on distance — far cheaper than a DUI fine of 3~5 million won.

What happens if you get caught: At 0.03% BAC, you face license suspension (100 days), a fine of 3~5 million won, and possible criminal record. At 0.08%, your license is revoked, you face 1~5 years in prison, and up to 20 million won in fines. Repeat offenders face even harsher penalties.

Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates only. Actual BAC varies based on food intake, metabolism, body composition, and other factors. When in doubt, always use a designated driver service or take a taxi.