Korean American food writer and chef Irene Yoo has won a prestigious James Beard Award for her book Soju Party: How to Drink (and Eat!) Like a Korean.
The award-winning book explores Korean drinking culture and the role food, hospitality, and community play in bringing people together. Yoo wrote the book to introduce Korean alcohol traditions and drinking foods to a broader audience while sharing the cultural memories and experiences that shaped her upbringing.
In announcing the award, Yoo expressed gratitude to her publishing team, collaborators, family, and friends who helped bring the project to life. She also emphasized that Korean drinking culture is rooted in generosity and connection, where food and drink are shared to strengthen community.
Soju Party has been recognized for helping introduce Korean drinking traditions to a wider audience while celebrating the evolving story of Korean food culture.