“독립의 열망과 환희 기억하려 ‘81.5도주’ 만들었죠”

This year marks the 81st anniversary of the Korean independence, and people are commemorating it by celebrating the country's freedom and independence. One unique way of honoring the occasion is through the creation of a strong alcoholic beverage called "815." With an alcohol content of 81.5%, it is twice as strong as traditional whiskey, which typically contains 40% alcohol.

The brain behind this special blend, Kim Gwang-un, the 67-year-old representative of Nongdan Brewery in Hongcheon, Gangwon-do, explained the significance behind this high alcohol content.

For him, 81.5 degrees is not just a measure of alcohol strength; it represents the temperature of independence and the warmth of celebration. He aimed to create a drink that stays with you after you've finished drinking, leaving a lasting impression of the spirit of independence. To achieve this, the brewer starts with barley and creates a base spirit, then adds ingredients such as wheat, mugwort, and a variety of seasonal flowers, allowing the alcohol to absorb the natural flavors of each component.

The finished product is aged in a special bottle called "Dalmahanari," crafted by a renowned Korean potter from Seojumun, Gyeongsangbuk-do. The bottle features three colors—a red, a black, and a white—to symbolize the passion for independence, the weight of history to remember, and the hope for a peaceful future. The "815" beer received the highest rating from the International Wine and Spirits Association, with three stars, in its first year.

According to Kim, the true meaning of the 81st independence anniversary lies in the continuous celebration of freedom and the shared experience of drinking a special brew on this day. He hopes that by sharing this unique drink, people can connect with history and each other, making the 81st anniversary of Korean independence a memorable event for everyone involved.