Korea's 8 Nationally Designated Traditional Liquors

 Korea boasts a long history of diverse traditional liquors. Among them, the 8 nationally designated traditional liquors are recognized for representing Korean tradition and culture. In this post, we will explore these 8 traditional liquors in detail, including their alcohol content and price.

Korea traditional liquors

1. Munbaeju (문배주)

• Alcohol Content: 40%
• Price: Approximately 40,000 KRW for 500ml
• Description: Munbaeju originates from the Pyongan Province and is known for its unique aroma derived from the Munbae tree fruit. It is primarily made from glutinous rice, barley, and yeast, offering a refreshing taste and fragrance. It is currently mainly produced in Paju, Gyeonggi Province.

2. Andong Soju (안동소주)

• Alcohol Content: 45%
• Price: Approximately 50,000 KRW for 500ml
• Description: Andong Soju originates from the Andong region in North Gyeongsang Province and boasts a high alcohol content of over 45%. Made from glutinous rice and yeast, it undergoes over 100 days of fermentation and aging, resulting in a smooth taste and deep aroma. Historically, Andong Soju has been used in rituals and ceremonies.

3. Igangju (이강주)

• Alcohol Content: 25%
• Price: Approximately 30,000 KRW for 375ml
• Description: Igangju comes from the Namwon region in North Jeolla Province. It is made with pear, ginger, cinnamon, and honey, offering a unique blend of sweetness and the spicy taste of ginger. Igangju is particularly popular in winter when served warm.

4. Gyeongju Beopju (경주 법주)

• Alcohol Content: 16%
• Price: Approximately 25,000 KRW for 750ml
• Description: Gyeongju Beopju is a traditional liquor from the Gyeongju region in North Gyeongsang Province. Known for its clear and clean taste, it is made from glutinous rice, yeast, and water, undergoing a long period of fermentation and aging. Gyeongju Beopju is noted for its delicate and smooth flavor.

5. Hansan Sogokju (한산 소곡주)

• Alcohol Content: 18%
• Price: Approximately 35,000 KRW for 500ml
• Description: Hansan Sogokju originates from the Hansan area in Seocheon County, South Chungcheong Province. As the name "Sogokju" suggests, it is made from grains. Using glutinous rice and yeast, it ferments slowly, resulting in a sweet and subtle taste. Hansan Sogokju is known for its deep flavor achieved through extended aging.

6. Jindo Hongju (진도 홍주)

• Alcohol Content: 40%
• Price: Approximately 40,000 KRW for 500ml
• Description: Jindo Hongju originates from Jindo in South Jeolla Province and is characterized by its red color. It is made from glutinous rice, red yeast rice, and yeast. The fermentation process gives it a distinct red hue. Jindo Hongju boasts a rich and full-bodied flavor.

7. Gayagok Wangju(가야곡 왕주)

• Alcohol Content: 16%
• Price: Approximately 30,000 KRW for 750ml
• Description: Gayagok Wangju comes from Geumsan in South Chungcheong Province. As the name "Wangju" (King’s Liquor) implies, it is known for its luxurious and profound taste. Made from glutinous rice and yeast, it undergoes a long fermentation process, resulting in a sweet and smooth flavor. Gayagok Wangju is often enjoyed at celebrations and special events.

8. Omegisul (오메기술)

• Alcohol Content: 17%
• Price: Approximately 20,000 KRW for 750ml
• Description: Omegisul originates from Jeju Island and is made using Omegi tteok (corn cake), a local specialty. It is made from glutinous rice, Omegi tteok, and yeast, resulting in a soft and subtle taste. Omegisul is renowned for its unique flavor that reflects the natural environment of Jeju Island.