So, you’ve heard the catchy tune “APT” by Blackpink and Bruno Mars and you’re intrigued by this Korean drinking game everyone’s talking about? Well, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the APT song drinking game (also known as the Apateu game), from the basic rules to some fun variations and its place within Korean drinking culture.
How to Play the Korean APT Drinking Game (Apateu Game)
Ready to get this party started? Let’s break down the ridiculously simple, yet surprisingly fun, Korean APT drinking game (Apateu game). No need for fancy equipment, just a group of friends and your own two hands. This game, popularized by the Blackpink and Bruno Mars song “APT”, is a great icebreaker for any gathering.
- The “Game Start” Chant (Optional): To channel your inner Rosé, kick things off with a chant: “[Player’s name]’s favorite game, game start!” Purely for added flair! This chant is a fun way to initiate the game, especially for fans of Blackpink.
- The “Apateu” Chant (Hand-Stacking Game, Number Calling Game): Everyone chants “apateu” (pronounced ah-pah-teu) while waving their hands horizontally, alternating one above the other, like an invisible orchestra conductor. This rhythmic chant sets the pace for the game. Repeat this three times. On the fourth “apateu”, everyone brings their hands down to the center of the table, creating a stack of hands. The hand stack is central to the gameplay.
- Calling the Number (Target Number): The person who initiated the “favorite game” chant (or anyone) shouts out a number (target number). For example, “five”.
- The Count and the Penalty: The player with their hand at the bottom of the stack pulls it out and places it on top, yelling “one”. The next player follows suit, shouting “two”, and so on, until you reach “five”. This counting process creates suspense as players anticipate the final number. The person whose hand lands on top for the final number is the designated drinker! This is the moment of truth in the APT game! This player takes a drink or a shot (alcoholic beverage, penalty drink)(your choice) and calls the number for the next round. The game continues with rounds until players decide to stop.
Tips and Variations for the APT Drinking Game
Number Calling Strategies
Want to add a layer of strategy to this deceptively simple game? Calling a low number (like one, two, or three) can catch people off guard. They might hesitate, thinking it’s too easy, and end up messing up. Conversely, a high number can build suspense, but also gives players more time to calculate their moves. Try mixing it up and see what works best for your group! Experiment with psychological tactics to keep your friends on their toes.
Alternative Penalties
While taking a drink is the traditional penalty, feel free to get creative! Instead of alcohol, the loser could have to do a silly dare, sing a song, or answer a trivia question. You can even create a custom deck of challenge cards for even more unpredictable fun. Tailor the penalties to your group’s preferences and the occasion, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and entertained. Remember, it’s all about fun and light-hearted competition! Consider non-alcoholic options for those who prefer not to drink.
Adapting for Different Group Sizes
The APT game is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed by groups of all sizes. For larger gatherings, you might split into smaller teams to make it more manageable. Or, for a more intimate setting with just a few friends, you can increase the intensity by playing multiple rounds in quick succession. The possibilities are endless! Adjust the game to fit the social dynamics of your group.
The Cultural Context of the APT Game and Korean Drinking Culture
The APT game, like many Korean drinking games, reflects the importance of social interaction and bonding in Korean culture. Drinking with friends and colleagues is a common way to build relationships and unwind after a long day. It’s also deeply intertwined with etiquette and respect, especially for elders. When drinking with Koreans, it’s customary to pour drinks for others, particularly those older than you, and to accept drinks with both hands as a sign of respect. These customs underscore the importance of hierarchy and politeness in Korean society.
While playing the APT game, consider incorporating some of these cultural elements, such as pouring drinks for one another (even if it’s just water or soda) and being mindful of those around you. This can add a layer of cultural appreciation to the fun. Learning about these customs enhances the overall experience of playing the game.
Popular Korean Drinks: Soju, a distilled rice liquor, is the quintessential Korean alcoholic beverage, often enjoyed neat as a shot. Korean beers, like Cass, Hite, and Terra, are also popular choices and are typically served cold. It’s almost unheard of to drink without some accompanying snacks, or anju. Korean cuisine offers a wide array of delicious anju options, from Korean fried chicken and grilled meats to savory pancakes and flavorful stews.
Food Pairings (Anju): It’s rare to drink in Korea without some accompanying snacks (known as anju). Korean cuisine offers a delightful array of options, from Korean fried chicken (chimaek) and grilled meats like samgyeopsal (pork belly), to savory pancakes (pajeon) like haemul pajeon (seafood pancake), and flavorful stews like jjigae. These dishes complement the drinks and add to the overall social experience. Experimenting with different anju can enhance the enjoyment of the APT game and provide a taste of Korean culinary culture.
Conclusion
The APT drinking game, propelled into the spotlight by Blackpink and Bruno Mars, offers a fun, simple, and engaging way to connect with friends and enjoy some friendly competition. Its easy-to-learn rules and adaptability make it suitable for various occasions and group sizes. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just looking for a new way to spice up your next gathering, the APT game is definitely worth a try. If you’re looking for other fun games to play with a larger group, check out our collection of drinking games for large groups. Planning a cozy night in with your significant other? We’ve got you covered with our list of drinking games for couples. And for smaller gatherings, don’t miss our selection of drinking games for small groups or even drinking games for 2 players. So gather your friends, get the “Apateu” chant going, and prepare for a night of laughter and good times. Remember to drink responsibly and adapt the game to suit everyone’s comfort levels. Enjoy the APT experience!
