Korean alcohol is becoming popular all over the world. With K-pop, K-dramas, and K-food getting famous, more people are also trying Korean drinks. By 2025, not only traditional soju and makgeolli but also fruit soju, premium soju, herbal liquor, and craft beer have become favorites among foreigners. Korean drinks are not just about alcohol; they also show Korean culture. Let’s look at the top 5 Korean alcoholic drinks that foreigners love and why they are so popular.
1. Fruit Soju – Sweet and Easy to Drink
Fruit soju has less alcohol and a sweet taste, making it great for beginners. It is very popular, especially among young people and those who don’t like strong alcohol.
✅ Why Do Foreigners Like It?
- Lower alcohol content (12-14%): Easier to drink than regular soju (16-20%).
- Sweet flavors: Comes in peach, green grape, grapefruit, strawberry, and more.
- Looks great on social media: Colorful bottles make it fun to share online.
- Seen in K-dramas: Many Korean TV shows feature fruit soju.
🍹 Popular Fruit Soju Brands
- ✔ Jinro Fruit Soju – A refreshing and smooth drink loved worldwide.
- ✔ Chum Churum Good Day – Offers many flavors at a good price.
- ✔ Saero (Seoul Night) – Trendy and stylish, great for young drinkers.
2. Traditional Makgeolli – A Healthy Korean Rice Wine
Makgeolli is a Korean rice wine that is now known as a “healthy drink.” It was once a farmer’s drink, but now there are many premium versions that foreigners enjoy.
✅ Why Do Foreigners Like It?
- Good for health: Has probiotics and natural ingredients.
- Light and smooth: Slightly fizzy, creamy, and easy to drink.
- Many flavors: Available in strawberry, banana, yuzu, black sesame, and more.
- Perfect with Korean food: Great with kimchi pancakes, seafood pancakes, and grilled meat.
🍶 Popular Makgeolli Brands
- ✔ Seoul Jangsu Makgeolli – The most famous makgeolli brand worldwide.
- ✔ Boksoondoga Makgeolli – A premium makgeolli with bubbles, loved by foreigners.
- ✔ Neurin Maeul Makgeolli – A natural, high-quality makgeolli.
3. Premium Soju – A More Refined Korean Drink
Premium soju is different from cheap soju. It is made with traditional methods, giving it a smoother and richer taste. Many foreigners compare it to Japanese sake or whiskey.
✅ Why Do Foreigners Like It?
- High-quality and smooth: More natural and less harsh than regular soju.
- Great for special occasions: Enjoyed like fine wine or whiskey.
- Pairs well with fancy food: Matches well with Korean food, steak, and seafood.
🥃 Popular Premium Soju Brands
- ✔ Hwayo – A high-end soju often served in top restaurants.
- ✔ Ilpoom Jinro – A pure distilled soju with a deep flavor.
- ✔ Gamhongro – A traditional Korean soju with a rich taste.
4. Herbal Traditional Liquor – A Healthy and Unique Drink
Korean herbal liquors use ingredients like ginseng, red ginseng, omija berries, and pine leaves. They are popular among people who want a drink that is also good for health.
✅ Why Do Foreigners Like It?
- Healthy effects: Said to boost energy and help with tiredness.
- Unique flavors: Tastes different from Western alcohol.
- Traditional Korean feel: Many tourists buy it as a souvenir.
🌿 Popular Herbal Liquor Brands
- ✔ Munbaeju – A 100-year-old traditional Korean soju.
- ✔ Omija Liquor – A sweet and sour drink made from omija berries.
- ✔ Insamju (Ginseng Liquor) – Made with Korean red ginseng.
5. Korean Craft Beer – A New Trend
Korean craft beer is growing in popularity. Unlike regular beer, Korean craft beer includes special flavors like fruit, coffee, and chocolate. It is now loved by beer fans around the world.
✅ Why Do Foreigners Like It?
- Unique flavors: Offers fruity, roasted, or chocolatey tastes.
- Easy to find: Now available in many countries.
- Perfect with Korean food: Great with fried chicken, grilled pork belly, and seafood.
🍺 Popular Korean Craft Beer Brands
- ✔ Jeju Wit Ale – A refreshing wheat beer with Jeju tangerines.
- ✔ ARK Brewery – Offers many creative craft beer options.
- ✔ The Hand & Malt – A high-end craft brewery with unique flavors.