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Shin Jong-geun's 'K-Liqueur' Story: Dokdo Day and Dokdo Liquor
Contributed by Shin Jong-geun, exhibition planner and columnist (author of "Art and Liquor")
October 25 marks "Dokdo Day," a day commemorating the proclamation of Korean sovereignty over Dokdo.
This historical day celebrates the Imperial Decree No. 41 issued by Emperor Gojong on October 25, 1900, which officially designated Dokdo as an annexed islet of Ulleungdo.
Located at the easternmost point of the East Sea, Dokdo is the farthest island from the Korean mainland, approximately 217 kilometers from Jukbyeon-myeon, Uljin-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do, and 707 kilometers from Gageodo in Jeollanam-do—the longest distance between two South Korean territories.
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| ▲ "Dokdo is Korean Territory" poster, captured from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dokdo website. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap) |
In Dodong, Ulleungdo, the Dokdo Museum celebrates Korea’s commitment to territorial integrity. Opened in August 1997 with support from the Samsung Foundation of Culture, this one-of-a-kind museum collects, researches, and exhibits various materials related to Dokdo, providing educational opportunities on territorial sovereignty.
Among the various symbols of Dokdo, "Dokdo Liquor" stands out. While not brewed on Dokdo, these liquors proudly bear its name. Seoul Jangsoo Brewery produces "Dokdo Makgeolli," a variety of Korea’s beloved rice wine, infused with hibiscus concentrate and Ulleungdo deep-sea water, enhancing its appeal. The label features the hibiscus flower and a charming depiction of Dokdo's native sea lion, inscribed with "Korea’s Beautiful Island, Dokdo" in multiple languages.
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| ▲ Dokdo Makgeolli (L) and Dokdo Ae Morimi. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap) |
Another makgeolli is Dokdo Ae Morimi, produced by Morimi, a local agricultural corporation. The word “ae” means “love” in Korean, symbolizing a heartfelt love for Dokdo. This brew uses mineral-rich rock water from the East Sea and rice from Gyeonggi-do, delivering a rich and refreshing flavor.
In distilled soju, KR Company offers 40240 Dokdo, available in three varieties: 17, 27, and 37 (representing alcohol content levels). The number 40240 refers to Dokdo's postal code, established in 2003 to emphasize Korea’s sovereignty over Dokdo. Inspired by the 799-805 Dokdo Wine created by Ahn Jae-hyun, a Korean-American dentist, KR Company launched its own soju brand, incorporating Ulleungdo’s deep-sea water and exporting over 30,000 bottles to the U.S.
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| ▲ 40240 Dokdo Soju (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap) |
The first soju dedicated to Dokdo was introduced in 1996 by Daegu-based Geumbokju Brewery. Its initial success led to the launch of Dokdo Gold shortly after. The product line continued with later releases such as Cham Island in 2008 and Cham Island Dokdo in partnership with Emart in 2013. The current version, labeled "Dokdo of Ulleung-gun, Korea," is infused with oceanic deep-sea water, resulting in a smooth taste.
In 2010, Busan-based Daeseon Brewery sold a limited edition of 3 million bottles of Dokdo Soju, featuring a label inspired by the famous 2005 Dokdo is Korean Territory advertisement by Professor Seo Kyung-deok in The New York Times, which captured international attention.
These Dokdo-themed liquors, whether driven by patriotic marketing or genuine expressions of national pride, serve as reminders of Dokdo. Each sip is an opportunity to reflect on and remember Korea’s cherished island.
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| ▲ Various designs of Dokdo Soju, past and present. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap) |
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