테슬라 (Tesla) Meaning: The Viral Korean Somaek Mix

What it actually implies

In the world of Korean drinking culture, 'Somaek' (Soju + Maekju/Beer) is king. The term 테슬라teseulra (Te-su-la) is a clever portmanteau of the beer brand Terra (테라) and the soju brand Chamisul (참이슬). Because 'Sul' sounds like the 'sla' in Tesla, the name stuck. It represents a specific preference for the refreshing carbonation of Terra paired with the clean finish of Chamisul.

When it sounds rude (and why)

Using this slang isn't 'rude' in terms of profanity, but it can be socially awkward in formal business settings. If you are drinking with a CEO or a much older relative, stick to ordering the brands separately. Using 'Tesla' in a high-end traditional setting might make you look like you're trying too hard to be 'hip' when the atmosphere calls for 'Jeong' (sincerity).

Do / Don’t checklist

• Do use it at 'Pocha' (street bars) or casual BBQ spots with friends.
• Do specify the ratio if you are the one mixing (the 'Golden Ratio' is usually 3:7).
• Don't use it if the bar doesn't carry HiteJinro products (the company that makes both Terra and Chamisul).
• Don't expect an actual car to show up.

Rewrite drill (same message, 3 tones)

1. Casual (Slang): 우리 테슬라로 갈까?uri teseulraro galkka? — Shall we go with Tesla (mix)?
2. Polite (Standard): 테라랑 참이슬 한 병씩 주세요.terarang chamiseul han byeongssik juseyo. — Please give us one bottle of Terra and one of Chamisul.
3. Business (Formal): 맥주와 소주를 주문해 드릴까요?maekjuwa sojureul jumunhae deurilkkayo? — Shall I order some beer and soju for you?

Examples

• 요즘은 카스 말고 테슬라가 대세지.yojeumeun kaseu malgo teseulraga daeseji. — These days, Tesla is the trend, not Cass.
• 테슬라 비율 어떻게 타줄까?teseulra biyul eotteotge tajulkka? — What ratio should I use for the Tesla mix?