Overview
National Folk Museum of Korea (NFMK) presents “Makgeolli, a companion in the bittersweet life.” It is a special online exhibition on Makgeolli, which has been together for many years and also beloved by modern people.

Makgeolli (traditional Korean raw rice wine) has been a good friend to Koreans for ages. It was shared at the hard farming site to relieve farmers’ fatigue, the tavern for tired travelers, and the cheerful feast. It continued to be enjoyed by people from all walks of life including laborers, office workers, and university students throughout the modern history of Korea. Koreans shared their sorrow and happiness with one kettle of Makgeolli. It has always been a close friend of Koreans, but perhaps too familiar to learn about it.

This exhibition provides in-depth information on Makgeolli. The first part “Understanding Makgeolli” introduces its history and information. The second part “Making Makgeolli” describes how and where to brew it, and stories of those who make it. The third part “Sharing Makgeolli” presents you with various social events, venues, and memories of Makgeolli.

This is the first online exhibition of the NFMK due to the COVID-19. It is our sincere hope that the exhibition can be a little consolation from the story of Makgeolli.