South Korean Father Seeks Help as Wife Struggles with Daily Alcohol Consumption
A South Korean man recently shared his distress over his wife’s daily consumption of approximately one liter of soju, a distilled spirit popular in Korea. The case, highlighted on the tvN STORY program “Lee Ho-seon’s Counseling Center” on March 16, 2026, raises concerns about the impact of alcohol dependence on families and the challenges of seeking appropriate support. The husband, who has four children, described how his wife’s drinking has significantly lengthened mealtimes and is impacting their daily life. He reports that while she initially consumed soju two to three times a week before the birth of their fourth child, her consumption escalated to daily after their youngest turned one year old.
The situation underscores a growing public health concern in South Korea, where alcohol consumption remains relatively high despite efforts to curb excessive drinking. While cultural norms often associate alcohol with social gatherings and stress relief, problematic alcohol employ can have devastating consequences for individuals, families, and communities. The husband’s story highlights the often-hidden struggles faced by families dealing with a loved one’s alcohol dependence, and the difficulties in navigating available resources.
Escalating Consumption and Family Impact
According to the husband’s account, his wife now drinks approximately two bottles of soju each day, totaling around five liters per week. He noted that the drinking began to noticeably increase after the birth of their fourth child. This increased consumption has led to extended mealtimes, often lasting one to two hours due to his wife’s alcohol intake. The husband’s concern isn’t simply about the quantity of alcohol consumed, but also the disruption it causes to family routines and the potential long-term health consequences for his wife.
The case echoes similar stories of families grappling with alcohol abuse, as seen in other Korean television programs. In February 2025, a segment on the show “Marriage Hell” featured a case described as the “worst alcohol addiction” the program had encountered, prompting calls for professional medical intervention beyond the scope of counseling. Chosun Ilbo reported on this case, emphasizing the need for specialized medical attention for severe alcohol dependence.
Soju Consumption and Public Health Concerns
Soju is a clear, colorless distilled spirit made from rice, barley, or other starches, and is the most popular alcoholic beverage in South Korea. Its relatively low cost and widespread availability contribute to its high consumption rates. However, excessive soju consumption is linked to a range of health problems, including liver disease, cardiovascular issues, and increased risk of certain cancers.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that harmful use of alcohol causes more than 3 million deaths each year globally, contributing to 5.3% of all deaths. The WHO provides comprehensive information on the global impact of alcohol, highlighting the need for effective policies to reduce harmful drinking.
Seeking Help and Available Resources
The husband’s decision to seek help on a public television program demonstrates the desperation families often feel when faced with a loved one’s addiction. While counseling can be a valuable first step, severe cases of alcohol dependence often require professional medical intervention, including detoxification and ongoing therapy.
In South Korea, several resources are available for individuals and families struggling with alcohol addiction. These include:
- National Addiction Hotline: 1336 (provides confidential counseling and referral services)
- Korea Alcohol & Drug Abuse Foundation (KADAF): Offers a range of services, including prevention education, treatment programs, and support groups.
- Local Mental Health Centers: Provide access to mental health professionals and addiction treatment services.
The husband’s case also brings to light a separate, but related, story that emerged in January 2026. Chosun Ilbo reported on a public dispute involving the wife of actor Im Seong-geun, who reportedly reacted negatively when offered a beverage other than soju, stating, “Why soju? Soju is… this is ridiculous!” This incident, while seemingly minor, reflects the deeply ingrained cultural association of soju with social drinking in South Korea and the potential challenges individuals face when attempting to reduce their consumption.
Another Case: A Wife’s Daily Two Bottles
Adding to the discussion, a recent report from March 18, 2026, detailed another case of a wife consuming two bottles of soju daily. As reported by Daum, a father of four children expressed his concerns about his wife’s drinking habits. The details surrounding this case are still emerging, but it further emphasizes the prevalence of alcohol-related issues within families in South Korea.
It’s vital to remember that alcohol dependence is a complex medical condition, and individuals struggling with addiction deserve compassion and access to appropriate treatment. Families affected by alcohol abuse should not hesitate to seek help from qualified professionals and support networks.
Key Takeaways:
- A South Korean father has publicly shared his concerns about his wife’s daily consumption of two bottles of soju.
- The case highlights the challenges families face when dealing with alcohol dependence and the importance of seeking professional help.
- Soju is a popular alcoholic beverage in South Korea, but excessive consumption is linked to various health problems.
- Resources are available in South Korea for individuals and families struggling with alcohol addiction, including the National Addiction Hotline (1336) and the Korea Alcohol & Drug Abuse Foundation (KADAF).
The situation involving this family serves as a reminder of the pervasive issue of alcohol dependence and the need for continued awareness, prevention efforts, and accessible treatment options. Further updates on this case and available resources will be provided as they develop into available.
Do you have experience with similar challenges? Share your thoughts and resources in the comments below.