Makgeolli to Be Served at Davos Forum

Makgeolli or traditional Korean rice wine will be served at the World Economic Forum which kicks off in Davos, Switzerland on Jan. 27.

The Federation of Korean Industries chose makgeolli, which has recently enjoyed explosive popularity, as the official drink for a toast at an event to promote Korea on Jan. 28 of the five-day Forum, and will bring 150 bottles of the milky-white light alcoholic beverage via the president's jet.

"Since Korea's image will be reflected in a glass of alcohol, we are carefully planning its selection and shipping procedure," an FKI official said.

Korean cuisine will accompany the drink at the event, and a band will play traditional Korean instruments such as the gayageum, a 12-stringed Korean harp, and janggu, a double-headed drum.

"We aim to make the event an opportunity to promote not only the Korean economy but also traditional Korean food and culture," the official said.

Makgeolli was served at a number of political and economic events over the past year including the Korean-Japan Summit last October. The government also plans to serve makgeolli to the visiting heads of state during the G20 Summit scheduled to be held in Seoul in November this year.