Imbibe Magazine | 01.05.2026 19:49
Kick off AAPI Month with a modern take on the oldest Korean beverage, makgeolli. The fermented rice beer, invented by farmers during the 10th century Goryeo Dynasty, became the drink of the working class. Consisting of just three ingredients—steamed rice, water, and nuruk (a natural starter)—it was easy enough for the common folk to brew up at home, which they did for centuries. After decades of turmoil in the 20th century, including a Japanese occupation and rice shortages, makgeolli was commercialized and mass produced. Artificial flavors were introduced to mask its lower quality.
