Inside DeKalb’s First Soju Distillery with Minhwa Spirits

At Discover DeKalb, we love spotlighting the people and places that make our community unforgettable—and our latest podcast episode does just that.

In this episode, we sat down with Ming Han Chung and James Kim, the visionary owners of Minhwa Spirits, located right here in Doraville. As Georgia’s first-ever soju distillery and recent award winners at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, Minhwa Spirits is redefining what craft spirits can look—and taste—like in DeKalb County.

From Tradition to Innovation

During the conversation, Ming Han and James took us back to the roots of soju, sharing its cultural history and significance. From there, they opened up about how Minhwa Spirits came to life—blending time-honored traditions with a modern, craft-forward approach that reflects both their heritage and their home in DeKalb.

Building Something Special in DeKalb

Launching a distillery is no small feat, and building one in DeKalb County comes with its own unique journey. The duo shared what it’s been like growing a spirits brand in Doraville, tapping into the area’s diverse food and beverage scene, and finding community support along the way. Their story is a powerful example of how DeKalb continues to be a home for entrepreneurs, creatives, and global flavors.

A Taste of the Story

Of course, no visit to a distillery is complete without a tasting. We sampled several of Minhwa Spirits’ offerings and heard the stories behind each flavor—from inspiration to production. Every sip carried intention, craftsmanship, and a deep connection to culture.

Tune In

If you’re passionate about craft spirits, local entrepreneurship, or discovering something new in DeKalb, this episode is a must-listen. Minhwa Spirits isn’t just making soju—they’re making history.

Listen to the full episode of DeKalb Talks Tourism and discover why DeKalb County is where tradition, innovation, and flavor meet.