So, you’ve heard about Makgeolli, and if not, no worries—give this post a read, and then swing back here. Trust me, it’ll all click into place. Makgeolli is like Korea’s drinkable heritage, the counterpart to kimchi in every Korean household. It’s not just a beverage; it’s a cultural essential.
You know what’s amazing about every drink out there? It’s not just about the taste; it’s like sipping on a little piece of history, with stories and anecdotes swirling around every sip. From how the grains were cultivated to the way it impacted economies and the magic of fermentation – there’s a whole world in every glass!
And when it comes to drinks with stories, Korea takes the cake. They’ve been mixing up special brews for ancestral rituals, enjoying them at home, and even facing bans during times of colonization and war.
So, if you’re planning your next adventure to Seoul, why not dive deep into Korean culture through its legendary drinks? Whether you’re visiting distilleries or joining in on tasting events, there’s so much to explore and sip on!
Must do: Check out the variety of Traditional and commercial Makgeolli, and make sure to pick up a bottle of good Soju or Makgeolli.
Nestled near Anguk Station on Line 3, the Sool Gallery is your go-to for the vibrant world of Korean traditional drinks, curated by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs.
Step inside, and you’ll be met with a delightful Traditional Drink Showcase, featuring top-tier traditional rice wines crafted by seasoned masters. They even highlight gems from their “Breweries to Visit” program. The showcases are like a Makgeolli journey across different provinces, complete with historical snippets.
Monthly at the Sool Gallery, they roll out Tasting Experience Programs, showcasing monthly selections with unique themes. It’s a sip into Korea’s rich drink culture.
Now, here’s the lowdown: The staff isn’t super fluent in English, so you might hit a bit of a language bump. But hey, it’s a fantastic spot smack in the touristy heart of Jogno. Definitely, mark it as a must-stop on your Seoul adventure!
Must do: Snap a picture inside a Hangari, and enjoy the vast tasting section.
Located in Pochon, just a scenic 90-minute drive from Seoul, Baesangmyeonjuga Brewery is responsible for a very well-known Makgeolli called Neurin Maul (trans: slow village).
This place is a pilgrimage for Makgeolli enthusiasts. A visit to this establishment is not just a journey; it’s a tribute to the late Master Bae Sang Myeon, a maestro in the world of Makgeolli.
Master Bae’s impact on the Makgeolli scene is truly multi-faceted. From development to manufacturing and distribution, his legacy lives on through the signature Makgeolli produced here, distinct for steering clear of Aspartame and embracing Koji as the fermentation starter – a technique borrowed from the world of Sake.
If the name Gugsundang rings a bell in your Makgeolli adventures, here’s a revelation – it was Master Bae’s first son, Bae Jung-ho, who ventured into the realm of Guksoondang. Stepping into their establishment feels like traversing a timeline. Ancient farming tools and clay pot vessels, the early architects of Makgeolli-making, echo in the ambiance. A collection of age-old texts unveils the treasure trove of Korean traditional recipes and insights.
Descend into their basement, and you’ll be greeted by a mesmerizing display of traditional alcohol. This is the sanctum of tasting, where Makgeolli, Soju, and Gwasilju from Baesangmyeong’s portfolio await exploration.Venture further, and you’ll find yourself in a room adorned with the founder’s study desk and notes sprawled across the walls. A timeline unravels the arduous yet triumphant journey of Master Baesangmyeon in the Makgeolli craft.
As you step outside, a breath of fresh air awaits, accompanied by the picturesque sight of hundreds of clay pots adorning the surroundings – a perfect backdrop for memorable snapshots. NeurinMaul isn’t just a brewery; it’s a living testament to the dedication and artistry of Master Baesangmyeon, making it a destination worth the drive and a must-visit for Makgeolli aficionados.
Must do: Take a Makgeolli Making Class and experience Premium Korean Makgeolli.
Step into the heart of Ahyeon Traditional Market and discover the enchanting world of Baekusaeng Makgeolli, a brewery shop that has been a pioneer in sharing the art of Traditional Makgeolli with tourists and expats.
At Baekusaeng, we don’t just offer a taste; we invite you to immerse yourself in the complete experience of crafting Traditional Makgeolli. Our doors are open to those eager to learn the secrets of the brew, making us the exclusive destination for an authentic and hands-on Makgeolli-making adventure.
What makes Baekusaeng truly exceptional? We proudly stand as the sole brewery in Korea founded by a Korean Foreigner National. Nestled within the lively Ahyeon Traditional Market, we break the mold by blending the art of brewing with the charm of a traditional setting.
Explore the unique intersection of culture, craftsmanship, and community at Baekusaeng Makgeolli. Here, each visit is a journey into the heart of Korean brewing traditions, guided by friendly faces and a passion for sharing the flavors that define our heritage.
Must do: Learn all about historical backgrounds and artifacts that were used centuries ago to craft Korean Traditional Alcohol.
Located in Wanju-gun, Jeollabuk-do, the Korea Alcohol Theme Museum tells diverse stories embedded in our drinking culture, spanning from ancient times to the present, through its collection of over 55,000 alcohol-related artifacts.
In 2015, the doors of the museum officially swung open, unveiling a vast space spanning 61,594 square meters, including a basement and three above-ground floors.
Stepping into the first exhibition hall, you’ll be greeted by the main artifacts that played a pivotal role in the world of Korean rice wine. As you venture into the second exhibition hall, prepare to delve deep into the rich history and culture surrounding Korean alcohol. A carefully curated timeline unfolds the significance of Korean alcohol, chronicling its challenges during Japanese colonization and war, and exploring the lasting impact on its legacy.
Embracing the great outdoors, the museum transforms its surroundings into a hub for cultural events and enchanting outdoor weddings, firmly establishing itself as a cultural haven that proudly represents Wanju. Since its grand unveiling, the museum has become a magnet, drawing in over 40,000 visitors each year.
Must do: Capture a snapshot of ancient artifacts that whisper tales of times gone by, and immerse yourself in the authentic tradition of Makgeolli.
