Korean Alcohol for the Uninitiated

Korea’s drinking culture is vibrant and deeply rooted in history, offering a fascinating mix of traditional and contemporary alcoholic beverages. From smooth soju to effervescent makgeolli, Korean alcohol is more than just a drink—it’s a way to bring people together, celebrate, and enjoy flavorful pairings with delicious food. Whether you're a casual drinker or a connoisseur, here’s everything you need to know about Korean alcohol.

1. Soju (소주) – Korea’s Iconic Spirit

Soju is Korea’s most famous alcoholic beverage, often referred to as the “vodka of Korea.” It’s a clear, distilled liquor with an alcohol content ranging from 12-25%. Originally made from rice, modern soju is often produced using starches like sweet potatoes or barley. The taste is smooth and slightly sweet, making it easy to drink, especially when paired with Korean BBQ, fried chicken, or spicy dishes.

How to Drink Soju Like You Know What You’re Doing:

Pour for Others – In Korean culture, it’s customary to pour drinks for your friends rather than yourself.

Use Two Hands – When receiving a pour from an elder, hold your glass with both hands as a sign of respect.

Take a Shot, Then Sip – Soju is often consumed in small shots, but sipping is also common.

Mix It Up – Try somaek (소맥), a popular mix of soju and beer, for a refreshing twist.

2. Makgeolli (막걸리) – The Traditional Rice Wine

Makgeolli is Korea’s oldest alcoholic drink, a milky, slightly effervescent rice wine with a low alcohol content (6-8%). It has a mild sweetness, a creamy texture, and a tangy aftertaste. Traditionally enjoyed by farmers, makgeolli is now gaining popularity worldwide for its probiotic benefits and unique flavor profile.

Best Food Pairings:

Pajeon (파전) – Savory Korean pancakes, especially seafood or green onion pancakes.

Bossam (보쌈) – Steamed pork wraps with kimchi and garlic.

Spicy Dishes – The slight sweetness of makgeolli balances out heat-packed meals.

3. Korean Beer (맥주)

Beer, or “maekju” (맥주), is another popular choice in Korea. Local brands like Cass, Hite, and OB are known for their light, crisp flavors, making them perfect for pairing with fried or spicy foods. Korea’s craft beer scene is also growing, with microbreweries introducing bold flavors and new styles.

Try These Classic Beer Combos:

Chimaek (치맥) – Fried chicken and beer, a beloved Korean pairing.

Somaek (소맥) – A mix of soju and beer, offering a stronger yet smooth drink.

Craft Beers – Look for local breweries offering IPAs, stouts, and seasonal ales.

4. Fruit Wines and Herbal Liquors

Korea also offers a variety of fruit-based and herbal alcoholic drinks that provide unique flavors and health benefits:

• Maesil-ju (매실주) – A plum wine with a sweet, tart flavor.
• Bokbunja-ju (복분자주) – A black raspberry wine known for its rich taste and supposed aphrodisiac qualities.
• Insam-ju (인삼주) – A ginseng-infused liquor believed to have medicinal properties.

Final Thoughts

Korean alcohol is as diverse as its cuisine, offering something for every taste and occasion. Whether you’re taking a shot of soju, sipping on a bowl of makgeolli, or enjoying a cold beer with fried chicken, Korean drinking culture is about sharing moments with friends and family. So grab a glass, say “건배! (Geonbae!)” and enjoy the rich flavors of Korea’s best drinks.