Korean Makgeolli Finds Fans in Japan — ‘Rainy Day’ Pairing Resonates Abroad
Creatrip Team
3 months ago
Slow Village (느린마을) makgeolli, a premium Korean rice wine produced without artificial additives, is gaining popularity in Japan and other overseas markets. Producer Baesangmyun Brewery reports exports have already surpassed last year’s total and could double this year, with the Slow Village lineup leading growth. The brand topped Rakuten’s makgeolli category in 2024 and is now sold at Korean and mainstream Japanese retailers like Aeon and Don Quijote. Marketing links the Korean cultural sentiment “makgeolli on rainy days” with K-drama–inspired food-and-drink pairings (e.g., makgeolli with pajeon, soju with samgyeopsal, beer with chicken). Baesangmyun plans to expand exports to markets including China, Taiwan, New Zealand, Latin America and Western Europe while promoting Korean drinking culture and quality-first values.
