An Alcohol Renaissance in South Korea

Overview

Young South Koreans are building breweries to make makgeolli, soju and other traditional alcohol. Hangang Brewery, established in 2018, sells a wildly popular makgeolli that uses 100% Seoul-grown rice with no sweeteners. One former owner-chef closed his restaurant to focus on brewing makgeolli, while 4 entrepreneurs launched an online business selling regional alcohol paired with labels designed by young artists. Traditional alcohol is no longer just a fun pastime, but a form of self-expression for the young people shaping a new culture.