Korean Dictionary
How to say "Rice wine" in Korean
“Rice wine” in Korean is 막걸리 (pronounced "Makgeolli").
막걸리
Makgeolli
Usage & Context
A traditional Korean rice wine with a milky, slightly sweet and tangy flavor. Lower in alcohol than soju. Traditionally a farmers' drink, now enjoying popularity with younger generations. Usually served in a communal bowl with ladles. Best paired with pajeon or kimchi.
Example Sentence
막걸리는 시원하게 해서 마시면 맛있어요.
Makgeolli is delicious when served chilled.
How to use 막걸리 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Rice wine” is 막걸리, romanized as Makgeolli.
Usage tip
Learn this word together with a complete Korean sentence. Meaning often depends on particles, politeness level, and word order.
Common mistake
Do not rely only on the English meaning. Read the Korean example sentence and notice the particles, word order, and politeness level around 막걸리.
Pronunciation Guide
The first syllable, 막 (mak), sounds like 'mock' in 'mockery'. The second syllable, 걸 (geol), sounds like 'gul' in 'gull'. The third syllable, 리 (li), sounds like 'lee' in 'lee'. Put it together as 'Mahk-gul-lee', with a slight emphasis on the first syllable.
More Example Sentences
Ordering more makgeolli at a restaurant or bar.
막걸리 한 사발 더 주세요!
Please give me another bowl of makgeolli!
Describing the taste of a particular makgeolli to a friend.
이 막걸리는 달콤하고 부드러워요.
This makgeolli is sweet and smooth.
Praising a classic food and drink pairing.
막걸리랑 파전은 환상의 조합이에요.
Makgeolli and pajeon are a fantastic combination.
Cultural Context
Makgeolli is a traditional Korean rice wine, characterized by its milky appearance, slightly sweet and tangy flavor, and lower alcohol content compared to soju. Historically a farmers' drink, it has seen a resurgence in popularity among younger generations, often marketed for its probiotic benefits. It's typically served chilled in a communal bowl with ladles, and its most famous pairing is with pajeon (Korean pancake), especially on rainy days. Many varieties exist, from artisanal brews to mass-produced brands.
Editorial note
We review entries like 막걸리 for pronunciation, example sentence fit, and learner mistakes so the page answers more than a direct dictionary lookup.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
막걸리 한 잔
A glass/bowl of makgeolli
막걸리 마시러 가자
Let's go drink makgeolli
시원한 막걸리
Chilled makgeolli
Related Expressions
동동주
Dongdongju
Traditional rice wine with floating rice grains
소주
Soju
Another popular Korean alcoholic drink
파전
Pajeon
Green onion pancake (classic pairing)
전통주
Jeontongju
Traditional Korean alcoholic beverage
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