While my recent trip to Rason was baller, it was also sad to see so many losses over Covid, such as the Czech Beer Bar, which is now a restaurant.
But what’s the story behind the place, and might it even return? Well, yes, but no, but…
The History of the Czech Beer Bar in Rason, North Korea
The Czech Beer Bar in Rason, North Korea, was a curious relic of economic experimentation in the DPRK’s only special economic zone. Opened around 2016, the bar served up imported Czech brews, catering to foreign investors, Chinese tourists, and the odd intrepid traveler (like us).
It stood out in Rason’s muted nightlife scene, offering a rare taste of European-style draft beer in one of the world’s most secretive countries. It is unclear exactly when it closed, but it was likely in late 2019 or early 2020 as the pandemic kicked in.
What was the Czech Beer Bar Like?
I ended up here a few times, one of which was just after it had opened, when the Czech guy was still training the locals on what they needed to do. Let’s just say he was finding it difficult to adjust to life in the Rason SEZ!
The bar, though, and indeed the beer, were baller—real Czech-style beer served in huge glasses with many varieties available. It was popular with tourists, at least for the limited time it was open.
The Closure and Future of the Czech Beer Bar in Rason
Like many great places, such as the Imperial Hotel, it was the pandemic rather than market forces that put the final nail in the coffin of this establishment. This was either in 2020 or 2021, but regardless, there is no Czech beer here anymore! The building, though, is still standing in the park next to a 3D cinema.
I was told by our local guides that it is now a restaurant, but when I asked what kind of food they served, I was laughed at and told, “Korean food.” I did not push the issue, but Korean food is quite a broad spectrum of dishes!
Will the Czech Beer Bar in Rason likely reopen? The answer is almost definitely no, no, it will not. BUT that does not mean the end of the beer scene in Rason.
Firstly, there is the Tumangang Brewery, which has a bar attached. But there’s also something really interesting happening in Rajin Square. Here, they are not just building a new “beer house” (to replace an old one), but the plans for it look amazing. They are even offering savings bonds to help with construction that offer decent rates of return.
Actually, I have always fancied owning a bar in the DPRK…