1. Tell us about Cosmogy.

Cosmogy, established in 2020, specializes in makgeolli kits. The Rice Flower Makgeolli Kit was launched to address the limitations of bottled makgeolli. Within a year of its launch, it began exporting to various regions including the Americas, Europe, and other countries through government support projects in each local government. In 2022, it was selected as a VIP gift at the KOTRA Cambodia Embassy’s National Day event.

2. This year marks the first time traditional liquor has been selected at the fair.

Traditional makgeolli is a valuable alcoholic beverage, made over days or even months. However, its shelf life and distribution challenges limit its potential as a tourism souvenir. We wondered if there was a way to make these traditional liquors more accessible and affordable, and came up with a rice wine kit that only requires you to mix water and wait for a day

3. What was the aspect you focused the most on within the product development process?

The essence of the Rice Flower Makgeolli Kit was born out of a desire to revitalize and popularize the traditional liquor market. We do not compare or evaluate the value of makgeolli against other products. We hope that by breaking down the high barriers and prejudices against our valuable liquor, the Rice Flower Makgeolli Kit will make it easier for people to try rice wine as it sparks interest and enjoyment in traditional liquor.

4. What were some of the challenges during the product’s production process?

Changing the perception of makgeolli was challenging. Overcoming the negative or limited perceptions of makgeolli, such as being thick, cheap, headache-inducing, or an old person’s drink, was difficult. Additionally, the concept of a “makgeolli kit” was unfamiliar, necessitating significant efforts in raising awareness and promotion.

5. Do you have a favorite moment from your participation in the contest?

I saw a lot of products in the contest, and it was evident that many products representative of and meaningful to Korea were being launched. I felt that there are many unrecognized masters enhancing Korean culture and tradition. The souvenir category of the tourism competition is deemed as a great opportunity to promote products embodying Korean culture and tradition. The hope is to continue discovering products that encapsulate the taste, beauty, values, and affection of Korea.

6. I’m curious about your future plans.

We are planning unique and diverse makgeolli products such as fruit-flavored makgeolli, wine-infused makgeolli, and probiotic makgeolli. Additionally, we are planning a one-day class program utilizing our makgeolli kits, offering a hands-on experience in making makgeolli.