Did you know?: Makgeolli Byproducts

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When I started brewing makgeolli, I didn’t expect to fall in love with the leftovers. I was already obsessed with the creamy, fizzy drink itself—but as I rinsed the rice and watched the cloudy water swirl down the drain, or scooped out the thick mash after straining, I couldn’t stop wondering: could these byproducts still have a purpose? As someone who cares deeply about fermentation, Korean tradition, and using what we have fully, I started experimenting. I remembered stories about rice water being used in skincare, and realized there was so much wisdom in the “extra” parts of the process. At Happy Hanok, this has become a quiet part of our mission—to not only make something delicious, but to honor everything that comes with it. From brew to body, nothing goes to waste.

♻️ A Philosophy of Wholesome Use

We brew makgeolli with intention—not just to create a delicious drink, but to celebrate the full lifecycle of fermentation. At Happy Hanok, we’re proud to embrace the principles of low waste and high wellness, turning byproducts into meaningful parts of your self-care routine.

Next time you enjoy a bottle of our creamy makgeolli, imagine the beauty rituals it could inspire.

Want to Try These At Home?

We’re working on small-batch skincare and bath soaks using our brewing remnants. Would you try them? Let us know on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter for updates on Happy Hanok’s Beauty Line Beta!

🌾 1. Rice Rinse Water: Korea’s Ancient Beauty Secret

When we rinse rice before steaming, the water turns milky white—a result of surface starches and micronutrients being released. This water, often discarded, is actually a gentle and mineral-rich tonic that has long been used in Korean and Japanese beauty traditions.

💧 How to Use:

• Facial Toner or Cleanser: Store rice rinse water in the fridge for up to 3 days. Use a cotton pad to gently wipe your face for a soft glow and brighter skin tone.

• Hair Rinse: Pour over clean hair after shampooing. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before rinsing. It can help strengthen strands, reduce breakage, and enhance shine.

🌟 Benefits:

• Rich in inositol, a carbohydrate that promotes cell regeneration and smooths texture

• Contains trace minerals that soothe sensitive skin

• Naturally brightens and evens tone over time

🍶 2. Nuruk Sediment: The Probiotic Powerhouse

After fermentation, fine particles of nuruk (the fermentation starter made of wheat, barley, or rice) settle at the bottom of the vessel. This sediment is teeming with lactic acid bacteria, enzymes, and amino acids that can be great for your skin’s microbiome.

🧖 DIY Face Mask:

• Mix 1 tsp of nuruk sediment with honey or yogurt

• Apply to clean skin for 10–15 minutes

• Rinse off with warm water for an instant glow

This is a great probiotic-rich mask that helps balance pH and gently exfoliates while feeding your skin beneficial microbes.

🍚 3. Spent Rice Mash: Gentle Exfoliation and Deep Moisture

The thick, slightly sweet rice mash leftover after filtering makgeolli is often discarded or composted—but it’s actually a gentle exfoliant and moisturizing base.

🌿 Uses:

• Body Scrub: Combine with a little sugar and rice bran oil for a natural scrub that softens and hydrates

• Foot Mask: Apply to dry feet, wrap with warm towels, and rinse after 20 minutes

Bonus Tip:

The mash can also be dried and ground into powder, creating a base for DIY bath soaks or facial packs.