Objectives: Research often focuses on just one group of factors at a time. However, their influence is complex and interrelated, and effects cannot easily be disaggregated. This study was to identify determinants of alcohol consumption and harmful alcohol use among Korean adults. Methods: Among a panel of subjected enrolled in existing domestic survey companies, adults aged 19 to 59 years old who replied that their drinking frequency was more than once a month for the past one year were selected in 2018. Sample size and methods used for analysis were determined by considering demographically proportioned stratified sampling and monthly alcohol drinking rate. A total of 3,000 subjects responded to questionnaires. Results: Genetics (hot flush after drinking) affected drinking behavior. Various characteristics of those including sex, impulsive personality, perceived health status, and beliefs and expectancies of alcohol, number of friends, social networks and social norms affected consuming the weekly alcohol. Genetics, sex, age, impulsive personality, depression, economic deprivation, number of friends, social networks and agreement of alcohol regulations have been associated with high prevalence of harmful drinking experience. The broader environment within which drinking develops, including general drinking culture, its norms and practices, social networks, and the availability of alcohol is also significant in how drinking patterns develop and progress. Conclusion: The drinking culture in Korea was characterized by more social drinking than individual drinking. The practices of binge drinking should be improved to avoid secondary harmful effects.