Beer in South Korea

Beer in South Korea

Beer in South Korea

Type	Alcoholic beverage
Manufacturer
Distributor
Country of origin	South Korea
Region of origin
Introduced
Discontinued
Alcohol by volume
Proof (US)
Colour

Beer in South Korea has a long history and is a popular alcoholic beverage in the country. South Korea has a vibrant beer culture, with a variety of local and international beer brands available.

History

The history of beer in South Korea dates back to the early 20th century. The first brewery in the country, the Chosun Beer Brewery, was established in 1924 during the Japanese colonial period. However, the production and consumption of beer remained limited until the 1980s when the South Korean government lifted restrictions on beer imports and allowed the establishment of microbreweries.

Local Beer Brands

South Korea is home to several local beer brands that have gained popularity both domestically and internationally. Some of the notable local beer brands include:

• Hite Brewery: Founded in 1933, Hite Brewery is one of the oldest and largest beer producers in South Korea. It offers a range of beers, including Hite, Hite Prime, and Hite Stout.

• OB Beer: Established in 1952, OB Beer is another major player in the South Korean beer market. It produces a variety of beers, including OB Golden Lager, OB Blue Lager, and OB Premier Pilsner.

• Cass Brewery: Cass Brewery, founded in 1994, is known for its flagship beer, Cass. It is one of the best-selling beers in South Korea and is known for its smooth and crisp taste.

International Beer Brands

In addition to local beer brands, South Korea also imports a wide range of international beer brands. Some of the popular international beer brands available in the country include:

• Heineken: Heineken, a Dutch beer brand, is widely available in South Korea. It is known for its distinctive green bottle and smooth taste.

• Budweiser: Budweiser, an American beer brand, is also popular among beer drinkers in South Korea. It is known for its iconic red and white label and crisp flavor.

• Tsingtao Brewery: Tsingtao Brewery, a Chinese beer brand, has gained popularity in South Korea in recent years. It offers a refreshing and light beer experience.

Beer Festivals

South Korea hosts several beer festivals throughout the year, providing beer enthusiasts with an opportunity to sample a wide variety of beers. Some of the popular beer festivals in South Korea include:

• Seoul Craft Beer Festival: The Seoul Craft Beer Festival is an annual event that showcases a wide range of craft beers from both local and international breweries. It attracts beer lovers from all over the country.

• Busan International Craft Beer Festival: The Busan International Craft Beer Festival is another popular beer festival held in Busan. It features a diverse selection of craft beers and offers a unique beer tasting experience.

See also

• Alcohol in South Korea
• List of breweries in South Korea