Suwon | Traditional Korean Liquor Tasting Class
- Watch a traditional liquor expert demonstrate how sul is brewed and filtered by hand
- Taste a range of traditional liquors brewed by local Suwon breweries and compare each
- Mix your own hondonju, a Korean-style cocktail made with traditional Korean liquor, to finish
- Learn how sul shaped Korean festivals through history and why King Jeongjo cherished the drink
- Book on KKday for an English-guided session capped at 20 adults during the Suwon Hwaseong Festival
Package Options
Cultural Experiences
| Activity time | Afternoon, Evening |
| Transportation method | Get there on your own |
| Location | Indoor |
| Cuisine type | Korean cuisine |
| Cultural experience type | Traditional culture experience |
Product Info
What is A Festival in Glass at the Suwon Hwaseong Festival?
A Festival in Glass is a traditional Korean liquor program held at Jegongheon, part of the Suwon Center for Traditional Culture, during the Suwon Hwaseong Festival. It is built around "sul", the catch-all word for traditional Korean alcohol, which has been part of Korean festivals for centuries and was a drink King Jeongjo himself cherished. Rather than a bar crawl or a generic tasting flight, the program treats sul as culture: where it came from, how it is brewed and filtered, why each region tastes different, and how it earned its place at every celebration. It all takes place inside a traditional Korean hanok, which gives the tasting a setting that matches the drink, and the whole session is guided in English for international visitors.
What can I do at the traditional Korean liquor experience in Suwon?
The program runs about 80 minutes and is split into three parts. Part one is the story of traditional Korean liquor through history: a traditional liquor expert demonstrates how sul is brewed and filtered, and you taste as you go. Part two moves to local producers, with a lineup of traditional liquors made by breweries in Suwon so you can compare the character and flavor of each one side by side. Part three puts a glass in your hands, as you mix your own hondonju, a Korean-style cocktail built on traditional Korean liquor, and take traditional drinking culture somewhere modern. Sessions are kept to 20 people, so the expert is close enough to answer questions, and the pace is unhurried throughout. It makes a natural evening stop if you are already in Suwon for the Suwon Hwaseong Festival.
[Program Information]
Date: 10. 5.(Monday) ~ 10. 11.(Sunday) 17:00, 19:30 (approx. 80 mins)
※ The 17:00 session is available only on weekends and public holidays.
Venue: Jegongheon, Suwon Center for Traditional Culture
Participants: International visitors aged 19 and above, with up to 20 participants per session
* The program consists of three parts.
Part 1: The Story of Traditional Korean Liquor Throughout History
Watch a demonstration by a traditional Korean liquor expert, learn about the process of filtering traditional Korean liquor, and enjoy a tasting.
Part 2: Traditional Liquor Tasting from Local Suwon Breweries
Taste a variety of traditional liquors made in Suwon and discover the unique characteristics and flavors of each drink.
Part 3: Make a Korean-Style Cocktail "Hondonju"
Create your own Hondonju using traditional Korean liquor and enjoy a unique way of experiencing traditional Korean drinks.
Discover the rich flavors and stories of traditional Korean liquor in the atmosphere of a traditional Korean hanok. Experience Korea’s history and culture in every glass at the Suwon Hwaseong Festival.
Discover a special traditional Korean liquor experience centered around “sul” (traditional Korean alcohol), an essential part of any festival and a drink cherished by King Jeongjo.
During the Suwon Hwaseong Festival, international visitors can learn about the history and culture of traditional Korean liquor, sample a variety of traditional drinks, and enjoy a hands-on experience.
Watch an expert demonstrate how traditional Korean liquor is made and filtered, and discover the unique characteristics and stories behind a variety of traditional Korean drinks.
Then, taste traditional liquors made by local breweries in Suwon and compare the flavors of each drink. To finish, enjoy a unique hands-on experience by making “Hondonju,” a Korean-style cocktail using traditional Korean liquor.
Purchase Notice
1. The program lasts approximately 80 minutes.
2. Traffic may be congested and parking may be difficult due to the festival taking place on the day of the program. We strongly recommend using public transportation.
3. Photos or videos may be taken during the program for promotional and documentation purposes.
4. If you have any food allergies, please inform our customer service team when making your reservation.
5. Please note that participation may not be possible if you arrive after the scheduled start time, as this may affect the smooth operation of the program.
6. This program is exclusively for international visitors. Reservations made by Korean nationals may be canceled.
7. Participants must be at least 19 years old.
8. Each session can accommodate up to 20 participants.
9. The 17:00 session is available only on weekends and public holidays. (The 17:00 session will not be available from October 6 (Tue) to October 8 (Thu).)
Eligible Users
Ineligible Nationalities/Regions
- South Korea
How to Use
1. Select your preferred option and make a reservation for your desired date.
2. Check the voucher sent to you via mobile or email.
※ The voucher will be sent after your reservation is confirmed.
3. On the day of your reservation please visit Jegongheon at the Suwon Center for Traditional Culture and present your voucher.
4. Once your voucher has been verified, enjoy the experience.
Experience Location
Location Name: Food Culture Experience Center, Suwon Center for Traditional Culture
Address: 11-3 Jangan-dong, Paldal-gu, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, South KoreaCancellation Policy
- Cancellations 1 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
- Cancellation is not allowed between 0–0 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
- Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once your refund request is confirmed, KKday will initiate the refund to your original payment method within 15 days. The actual refund timing depends on your card-issuing bank’s policy.
FAQ
1. What traditional Korean liquor varieties can be tasted during the Suwon tasting class?
The Suwon Traditional Korean Liquor Tasting Class offers the opportunity to sample a range of traditional liquors brewed by local Suwon breweries. Participants can compare different varieties and appreciate the distinct flavors and aromas of each, gaining insight into the diverse world of Korean traditional alcohol.
2. What are the characteristics and effects of the traditional Korean liquors sampled in the Suwon tasting class?
During the class, an expert will guide you through the characteristics of various traditional Korean liquors, explaining their unique profiles, ingredients, and traditional brewing methods. You'll learn about the subtle differences in flavor, aroma, and texture among them, enhancing your understanding of these historical beverages. The class focuses on appreciation and education.
3. Where is the Traditional Korean Liquor Tasting Class in Suwon located and how long does it last?
The Traditional Korean Liquor Tasting Class is held in Suwon, allowing you to explore local flavors directly from the region. The session is approximately 80 minutes long, providing an engaging and informative experience within a focused timeframe. Its location offers an authentic experience with Suwon's local traditional breweries.
4. What is the format of the Suwon Traditional Korean Liquor Tasting Class and what activities are included?
The class features an expert demonstration on how traditional sul is brewed and hand-filtered. Participants will taste various liquors from local Suwon breweries, comparing their unique profiles. The session concludes with mixing your own hondonju, a Korean-style cocktail using traditional liquor, offering a hands-on experience. Historical insights into sul's role in Korean culture are also provided.
5. How can I book the Traditional Korean Liquor Tasting Class in Suwon and what does it include?
You can book the Traditional Korean Liquor Tasting Class in Suwon through KKday, ensuring an English-guided session during the Suwon Hwaseong Festival. Booking through KKday provides convenience and access to a structured, expert-led experience. The class includes an expert demonstration, tasting of local traditional liquors, the opportunity to mix your own hondonju cocktail, and cultural lessons about sul.
6. What historical context and cultural insights about Korean liquor will be shared in the Suwon tasting class?
The class delves into the rich history of sul, explaining how it shaped Korean festivals throughout history. You will learn fascinating stories, including why King Jeongjo cherished the drink. This cultural immersion provides a deeper appreciation for traditional Korean liquor beyond just its taste.
7. What is hondonju and how is it prepared during the Suwon Traditional Korean Liquor Tasting Class?
Hondonju is a unique Korean-style cocktail made with traditional Korean liquor. In the Suwon class, you will have the opportunity to mix your own hondonju at the end of the session. This hands-on activity allows you to create a personalized drink, combining traditional flavors in a modern way.
8. Is the Suwon Traditional Korean Liquor Tasting Class guided in English and what is the maximum group size?
Yes, the Suwon Traditional Korean Liquor Tasting Class is guided in English, ensuring clear communication and a comprehensive learning experience for international visitors. The class is capped at 20 adults, allowing for a focused and intimate setting where participants can engage directly with the expert.
