"BTS’s Jin Is Interested Too" — Baek Jong-won Unpacks the Story of Korean Liquor, Sweeping Netflix!

Following the success of Korean Beef Rhapsody, Chicken Rhapsody, and Cold Noodle Rhapsody, Netflix’s latest installment, Soju Rhapsody, has captured viewers’ attention, ranking 3rd among popular programs in early February. The Rhapsody Series is a food-centric cultural documentary that delves into the history and traditions behind Korean cuisine and drinks.

Once again, culinary expert Baek Jong-won takes on hosting duties for the series.

A Two-Part Exploration of Korea’s Soju Culture

In the first episode, Soju Rhapsody focuses on diluted soju—known for its iconic green bottle. The second episode dives into Korea’s traditional soju. The series begins with Baek Jong-won, a passionate foodie and brewer, sharing a glass of soju with actor Lee Jang-woo in the industrial streets of Euljiro.

Interestingly, the green-bottled soju that most people recognize isn’t traditional soju, but rather diluted soju. As the world’s best-selling distilled spirit brand, diluted soju has become a symbol of comfort in Korea, consumed during both happy and sorrowful moments.

The documentary traces the origins of diluted soju, visiting alcohol factories and uncovering its manufacturing history and process. It also dives into Korean drinking culture, highlighting the art of “somaek” (a mix of soju and beer) and the famous “poktanju” (bomb shots). Baek meets the “bomb shot auntie” in Pohang, known for her entertaining and playful way of mixing drinks.

Hangover Soup: A Uniquely Korean Tradition

No exploration of soju would be complete without hangover soup, a staple in Korean cuisine. Hangover soup is so essential that it’s the only dish in Korea specifically named for its hangover-curing purpose. The series showcases various regional hangover soups and revisits the nostalgic atmosphere of pojangmacha (street food stalls), a longtime refuge for locals.

A Dive into Traditional Soju in Episode 2

Episode 2 introduces Park Rok-dam, the head of the Korean Traditional Liquor Research Institute, who steals the spotlight by brewing Jukryeokgo (bamboo sap liquor). A poet and traditional alcohol researcher, Park has authored numerous books on Korean liquor, such as The Korean Traditional Liquor Kitchen Book, Time-Infused Liquors, and Flower-Infused Liquors.

Even BTS’s Jin has shown interest in traditional Korean alcohol, learning brewing techniques from Park Rok-dam himself.

Many viewers shared their excitement online. “Watching Soju Rhapsody sparked my interest in Korean traditional liquor. I’d love to visit regional breweries and distilleries,” “The show is great, but the featured restaurants caught my eye even more. I have to try that hangover soup place!” With its blend of history, culture, and food, Soju Rhapsody is not only highlighting Korea’s iconic drink but also inspiring viewers to dive deeper into its culinary traditions.