The Andong Soju Museum celebrates the history of soju, which is a distilled rice liquor that originated in the Andong region. Artifacts, models and photographs take you on a journey from the early beginnings of the drink in the 1200s to its modern-day significance. Find the Andong Soju Museum located inside the Andong Soju Brewery, where there is also a Korean food museum.
Displays feature the typical equipment used in the soju distilling process such as a different kinds of sots (cauldrons), sojugori (distillation stills) and hangari (clay pots). Understand the meaning of the name, which is a blend of the words “so” (burn) and “ju” (liquor). See a varied selection of liquor bottles, drinking vessels and soju labels. Strict etiquette rules are associated with the drinking of soju in Korea and the museum recreates some of these with models.
Make your way to the Traditional Food Museum for an educational insight into the culinary culture of the Andong region. Behind glass cabinets are examples of sweet and savory foods displayed on typical Korean tableware. There are also explanations of eating ceremonies and rituals. Don’t miss the exhibit that recalls Queen Elizabeth II’s birthday visit to Andong, for which hundreds of dishes were prepared.
Conclude your visit in the tasting room, where you’ll have the opportunity to sample a complimentary glass of soju. Purchase a bottle to take home as a souvenir.
The museum sits on the opposite side of the Hakdong River from Andong’s city center. Get here by taking a taxi or a public bus. Free on-site parking is available. Other attractions worth visiting in and around Andong are the Five-Story Brick Pagoda and Seven-Story Brick Pagoda.
Andong Soju Museum is open year round and admission is free. Set aside about an hour to see all of the exhibits and visit the tasting room.
