Seoul Chinese Cultural Center holds Mid-Autumn Festival lecture on Chinese liquor culture

On September 12 and 20, the Seoul Chinese Cultural Center organized two engaging lectures centered on the rich traditions of Chinese liquor culture. These events aimed to not only promote this deep-rooted aspect of Chinese heritage but also to spark conversations about the Mid-Autumn Festival and the shared human values of harmony and reunion.

We had the privilege of interviewing Sun Young-sam, the president of the Korea-China Language Association, who delivered the keynote address at the lectures. In her presentation, she provided attendees with a comprehensive overview of Chinese liquor culture, covering its history, brewing techniques, raw materials, classifications, and the art of pairing different types of Chinese liquor with food. The lectures drew an intriguing mix of participants, including distributors of well-known brands like Maotai and Yanghe, along with professionals from cultural, corporate, and media sectors in South Korea.

During the session, Sun invited attendees to sample a variety of alcoholic beverages—Chinese liquor, wine, beer, and rice wine—allowing them to appreciate the unique characteristics of Chinese liquor firsthand. She then explored the fascinating history behind Chinese liquor, its ingredients, and the complexities of its brewing process.

The relationship between fine liquor and food has always been a joy for many. After establishing a systematic understanding of Chinese liquor, Sun elaborated on how different aromatic varieties can enhance various dishes, sparking discussions about the versatility of Chinese spirits. Following the lecture, attendees engaged in enthusiastic exchanges, sharing their insights into the cultural significance of Chinese liquor. The event’s interactive format left many participants with a renewed appreciation for Chinese liquor, fresh perspectives on food pairings, and a taste of the traditional Chinese approach to enjoying these beverages.