using methods very similar to those brought into

the Korean peninsula by the Y an Mongols.

It is very likely that a Mongol supply garrison

was stationed in Andong during the Y an advance

through the Korean peninsula, on their way to launch

an expedition against Japan in the 13th century.

Soju, including Andong Soju, became popular among

the upper class in the Kory period.

The use of soju spread as it came to be used for

medicinal purposes, as a cure of stomachaches,

poisonous insect bites, and other ills.

We can find another historical record of soju in

the writings of Lee Hyun Bo (pen-name "Nong Am"),

who was exiled to Andong during the Yunsan period,

in the book Chos n Myounginjun. His faithful adherence

to his duties and indomitable spirit earned him the

nickname Soju Dobyoung, or Soju Expert,

among his peers. He was reinstated to the rank of

Jipyoung after King Chungjong was removed from power.

A local Andong resident owns an old medical book,

in which there are records of soju being used to

treat wounds, stomachaches, increased appetite, and dyspepsia.