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Incheon(Dong-gu) , Incheon Center

The Alchemist of Incheon: Brewing Culture at "Kkuljudang (Korean Traditional Liquor Atelier)" (Where a "Liquor Artist" Transforms Rice into Golden Memories in the Historic Baedari District) Incheon, South Korea — In the fast-paced world of travel, Incheon is often seen merely as a gateway—a city of terminals and transit. But for the discerning traveler willing to venture just beyond the airport, a profound cultural treasure awaits in the nostalgic alleys of Baedari. Welcome to Kkuljudang (Korean Traditional Liquor Atelier), the only operating traditional brewery in Incheon’s Dong-gu district. It is more than a bottle shop; it is a Traditional Liquor School and a sanctuary of fermentation where the history of Korea is brewed, bottled, and taught. The Masterpiece: "Geumchang Makgeolli" (2025 Grand Prize Winner) The soul of Kkuljudang (Korean Traditional Liquor Atelier) is its signature brew, Geumchang Makgeolli. This is not the mass-produced rice wine found in convenience stores; it is a work of art that captivated the judges to win the Grand Prize (Best Takju) at the 2025 Korea Liquor Awards within just one year of its launch. • The Philosophy of Purity: It is a Sungokju (Pure Grain Wine), crafted using nothing but rice, water, and Nuruk (traditional fermentation starter). • The Process: While commercial brands rush production, Kkuljudang waits. The liquor undergoes a labor-intensive "Sam-yang-ju" process (brewed three times) followed by two months of fermentation and aging. • The Taste Profile: By intentionally lowering the sugar content of the rice, the brew achieves a sophisticated structure. It is dry yet subtly sweet, with surprising notes of banana and vanilla emerging naturally from the rice—without a single drop of artificial flavoring. As the owner describes, it is designed to be "a drink you can enjoy deeply," with a clean finish that beckons the next sip. The Sustainable Gourmet: Upcycled Pairing For a complete sensory journey, we recommend the Geumchang Makgeolli Gift Set. It pairs the award-winning wine with a unique culinary innovation: Upcycled "Jigemi" Snacks. Made from the nutrient-rich rice lees left over from brewing, these snacks (available in Sweet & Salty or Spicy flavors) represent the atelier's commitment to sustainability. They are best enjoyed in the beautiful "Moon Cup" (Dal-jan), which mimics the image of a full moon floating in your drink. The Experience: Become a Brewer for a Day Kkuljudang (Korean Traditional Liquor Atelier) invites you to stop being a spectator and start being a creator. The venue operates as a Traditional Liquor School, offering programs ranging from professional 15-week master classes to accessible One-Day Classes perfectly suited for travelers. • The One-Day Brewing Class: This is an unmissable itinerary for visitors. Under the guidance of the master brewer, you can learn to make Danyangju (single-brew rice wine), the foundation of Korean liquor. It is a hands-on experience where you touch the grain, smell the yeast, and understand the science of fermentation. • Hyangeumjurye (Drinking Etiquette): Beyond brewing, guests can learn the traditional Korean etiquette of drinking, adding a layer of cultural depth to the tasting experience. The Artisan: The "Liquor Artist" The vision behind Kkuljudang (Korean Traditional Liquor Atelier) belongs to CEO Na Yoon-kyung, who prefers the title "Liquor Artist" (Sul-Jakga). Her journey began with a fascination for vinegar—the natural progression of fermented alcohol—which led her to the world of traditional brewing. "Just as a painter creates with a brush, I create flavors through living microorganisms. I can make the liquor sweet or bitter, orchestrating the life within the bottle," says Na. Her dream is to revitalize the old downtown of Incheon, turning it into a "playground for brewers" where warmth and culture flow as freely as the wine. The Ultimate Layover: A Transit Tour Destination The atelier has a clear mission for the international traveler: "Don't just pass through Incheon; taste it." Located conveniently for those coming from Incheon International Airport, it serves as an ideal Transit Tour destination. Instead of waiting in a terminal, spend your layover in a historic brewery. Make your own makgeolli, taste the award-winning vintage, and carry the scent of Korea with you to your next destination.       Visit Information • Venue Name: Kkuljudang (Korean Traditional Liquor Atelier) / 꿀주당 • Location: 52, Geumgok-ro, Dong-gu, Incheon (Near Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley) • Identity: Traditional Brewery / Liquor School / Cultural Atelier • Signature Experience: One-Day Brewing Class (Advance Reservation Required) • Must-Try: Geumchang Makgeolli (2025 Grand Prize Winner), Jigemi Snacks • Note: Please check availability and make a reservation before visiting to ensure the best experience. "Incheon is not just an airport; it is an atelier of flavor. Discover the art of fermentation at Kkuljudang (Korean Traditional Liquo


Busan(Yeongdo-gu)

Hongbokbanjeom is an authentic Chinese restaurant.


Jeollabuk-do(Gunsan-si)

* Geumgang Estuary Bank, a harmonic blend of the artificial and the natural * This estuary bank was completed in 1990 as part of an agricultural development project for 6 cities and counties in Chungcheongnam-do and Jeollabuk-do. The Korea Agricultural and Rural Infrastructure Corporation invested approximately 100 billion won for the project and the construction lasted for 8 years. The estuary bank can  hold up to 130 million tons of water. The 1,840-meter long bank serves a bridge that connects Chungcheongnam-do to Jeollabuk-do.Aside from being the source of water for agricultural and industrial use in Jeollabuk-do and Chungcheongnam-do, the bank also provides flood control for the area around Geumgang River. It helps keep Gunsanhang Port operational by preventing soil and sand from accumulating at the mouth of the river. It also prevents the backwash of seawater from causing damage to farmlands. Geumgang Estuary Bank has an important role as a tourist destination by connecting Gunsan and Janghang. * Plenty of attractions to see and enjoy* Geumgang Estuary Bank flows throughout many beautiful sites in Chungcheong-do. The estuary is now well-known as a bird sanctuary where the reeds and the natural habitat attract migratory birds, mallard ducks, swans, and globally rare species such as oystercatchers and Saunders's Gull during winter. An observatory was also built so people can enjoy bird watching at the estuary.Around the Geumgang Estuary Bank vicinity, nearby tourist attractions include the nation's biggest year-round sledding slope, a riverside amusement park, and the Geumgang Computer Game World equipped with about 80 kinds of computer games, making the area famous among kids and teens.


Jeollanam-do(Hwasun-gun)

Selected by CNN as one of the 50 beautiful places to visit in South Korea, Seryangji Reservoir offers amazing scenery not to be missed. The best time to visit is during spring when the cherry blossoms bloom along the lakeside. The reservoir on misty mornings and when the waters mirror the cherry blossoms are the most popular views. The site is especially popular among photographers.


Busan(Seo-gu)

Haengbokan (Happy) Megi-maeun-tang Restaurant serves well-being spicy catfish stew and various duck dishes with a cozy ambience like a grandmother’s home.


Gyeongsangbuk-do(Uljin-gun)

Surrounded by high mountains and cliffs, Wangpicheon Valley and the neighboring area have been kept unscathed for a long time. The area is now designated as Ecosystem Conservation Zone by Environmental Office, to protect the rare wild life flora and fauna.


Seoul(Gwanak-gu)

Jaunam Hermitage was originally built in 1396 by Great Monk Muhak of Joseon Dynasty. It was renovated in 1734, and finally took shape of the hermitage we know today in 1976 when Monk Boryun added Daeungjeon Hall, Chilseonggak Pavilion, and Sansigak Pavilion. It is currently located in the famous Jahadong Valley on the Seoul National University campus.


Gangwon-do(Pyeongchang-gun)

At an altitude of 1,577 m above sea level, Gyebangsan Mountain, which faces Odaesan Mountain on the eastern part of the Taebaeksan Mountain Range, is the fifth tallest mountain in South Korea, after Hallasan Mountain, Jirisan Mountain, Seoraksan Mountain, and Deogyusan Mountain. On the west side of Gyebangsan Mountain is Unduryeong (1,089 m), of which has vehicle accessible road. Asiatic black beers are said to habitate in the deep valleys on the north side, and there is Bangadari mineral water and other mineral water sources on the south side. With many varieties of herbs and wild flowers growing naturally in the area, it is also well known as a place to dig for wild ginseng. It's rare Japanese yew trees and royal azalea combined with it's similar terrain to Seoraksan Mountain's Daecheongbong Peak has caused the mountain to be a highly protected ecological environment.Gyebangsan Mountain is particularly popular for winter hikers, who can get beautiful views of the snowy landscapes of the mountain even until March. On top of that, since the difference in evelation from Unduryeong to the top of Gyebangsan is only 488 m, it welcomes even novice hikers as well. From the summit, one can see the backboone of Baekdudaegan Mountain, and with its panoramic views of Seoraksan Mountain to the north, Odaesan Mountain and Daegwallyeong to the east, and Taegisan and Hoegisan Mountains to the west, it is one of the best views in the area.


Jeollabuk-do(Jangsu-gun)

Geumgang River is one of Korea’s four major rivers (Hangang River, Geumgang River, Nakdonggang River, Yeongsangang River). It starts from Jangsu-eup, North Jeolla-do. It flows northward and then changes direction in the vicinity of Greater Daejon and flows southwest through South Chungcheong-do before emptying into the Yellow Sea near Gunsan City. The total area of the Geumgang River Basin is 9,885 square kilometers with a length of 401 kilometers, making it the third longest in South Korea (right behind Hangang River and Nakdonggang River). The upstream of the river flows through the rugged mountains of Deogyusan (1,594 meters; also the root of Geumgang River) and Baegunsan (1,279 meters) Mountains. The midstream and downstream areas feature basins and fertile alluvial plains, so they were one of the first settlements in Korea and the origin of the Baekje culture. The estuary in the downstream area is wide and deep due to the continuous sinking of the West shore, so it offers favorable conditions for a river port and an inland water conveyance system. Geumgang River has supplied water for the Honam (Jeolla-do) Field and served as Baekje Dynasty's main source of water, running through the capital city then. It was an important means of transportation that allowed Baekje's culture to flow into Japan.