2. Beer (맥주) & The "Chimaek" Culture Next up is beer (maekju), which holds a special place in modern Korean culture, largely thanks to one perfect combination: Chimaek. This word is a portmanteau of "chicken" and "maekju," and it's a national obsession. The light, crisp quality of Korean lagers is the perfect antidote to the delicious grease of Korean fried chicken. But it's not just for chicken—beer is a great match for all kinds of fried foods, pizza, or any casual, greasy meal. 3. Makgeolli (막걸리): A Taste of Tradition For a taste of something more traditional, you have to try Makgeolli. It's a milky, unfiltered rice wine made by fermenting a mixture of steamed rice, water, and a fermentation starter called nuruk (누룩). Characteristics: The result is a tangy, sweet, and slightly fizzy drink that is low in alcohol. It has a creamy texture and a distinctive, rustic flavor. How to Enjoy It: The classic pairing for makgeolli is jeon (전), which are savory Korean pancakes often filled with seafood, kimchi, or green onions. On a rainy day, sharing a bottle of makgeolli and a plate of jeon is a cherished Korean tradition. Some also enjoy mixing it with a clear soda like Chilsung Cider to create a sweeter, smoother cocktail. No matter what you choose to drink, please enjoy it responsibly and embrace Korea's vibrant and social drinking culture. Geonbae (건배)! (Cheers!)