The Rise of Korean Breweries in the Global Craft Beer Scene
From Seoul’s hip taprooms to Jeju’s island breweries, here’s how travelers can explore Korea’s fast-growing craft beer culture in 2025.
1. Seoul: The Capital of Korea’s Craft Beer Revolution
Seoul is where Korea’s craft beer movement began—and where it thrives today. Neighborhoods like Itaewon, Hongdae, and Gangnam have become hotspots for small breweries and bars that offer locally brewed beers. For travelers, the best part is how accessible these places are: most are within walking distance from subway stations and offer English-friendly menus.
Top Breweries to Visit in Seoul:
- Magpie Brewing Co. (Itaewon) – One of the pioneers of Korea’s craft beer scene, known for its Pale Ale and Porter. Try their tasting flight (₩18,000) to sample multiple brews. Cozy basement vibe, perfect for evening drinks.
- The Booth (Gangnam & Gwanghwamun) – Famous for their “K-Town IPA.” This brewery started as a small pizza bar and grew into a global brand. Excellent for casual meals with beer pairings.
- Amazing Brewing Company (Seongsu) – A trendy, industrial-style taproom with over ten rotating beers on tap. Their “Cherry Ale” and “Hazy IPA” are favorites among locals.
Seoul breweries often serve local snacks like fried chicken or tteokbokki, making it easy for first-time visitors to experience Korean comfort food with world-class beer. Expect to pay between ₩7,000–₩12,000 ($5–$9) per glass, similar to Western cities.
Traveler Tip: Visit during the Seoul Brew Culture Festival (usually held in October). It features over 100 Korean breweries and food trucks, and English-speaking staff are available at most booths.
2. Busan: Ocean Views and Coastal Brewing
Busan combines craft beer with ocean air. The city’s relaxed vibe makes it ideal for beachside taprooms and open-air tasting spaces. Unlike Seoul’s nightlife-oriented bars, Busan’s breweries focus on slow drinking, good food, and scenic views.
Best Breweries in Busan:
- Wild Wave Brewing Co. (Haeundae Beach) – The most famous coastal brewery in Korea. Their “Surf Pale Ale” and “Passionfruit Gose” perfectly match the beach atmosphere. The terrace overlooks the sea—one of the best spots in Busan for sunset drinks.
- Galmegi Brewing (Gwangan & Nampo) – A foreigner-founded brewery that emphasizes quality and community. Their “Moonrise IPA” and “Vanilla Cream Ale” are highly rated. Expect friendly English-speaking staff.
Busan’s breweries often double as brunch cafés or dinner restaurants. Many offer live music on weekends, attracting both locals and tourists. You can easily include brewery visits in your Busan travel itinerary after exploring Haeundae or Gamcheon Culture Village.
Traveler Tip: Try the Busan Craft Beer Bus Tour, a half-day tour visiting three breweries with tastings included (₩65,000 per person). It’s ideal for visitors without rental cars.
3. Jeju & Regional Breweries Worth the Trip
Beyond big cities, Korea’s countryside is quietly building a reputation for regional brewing. Jeju Island, with its volcanic water and subtropical climate, has become a key hub for experimental beer styles. Meanwhile, cities like Daejeon and Gangneung are nurturing their own small but ambitious breweries.
Notable Regional Breweries:
- Jeju Beer Company (Jeju City) – Korea’s first island-based brewery and one of the largest craft producers. The “Jeju Wit Ale” made with hallabong citrus is iconic. Brewery tours are available daily in English (₩10,000 including tasting).
- O.K. Brewery (Daejeon) – Specializes in small-batch sour ales. Their taproom hosts monthly pairing events with local cuisine.
- Chuncheon Brewing (Gangwon Province) – Known for using Korean barley and clean mountain water. Try their “Forest Lager” for a crisp, refreshing taste after hiking nearby trails.
Traveling to these regional breweries gives visitors a deeper appreciation of how Korean beer reflects its landscape. Jeju’s tropical ingredients, Daejeon’s urban creativity, and Gangwon’s purity of water each tell a unique story through flavor.
Traveler Tip: Jeju Beer Company operates a rooftop bar overlooking the sea, offering exclusive beers only available on-site. Go around sunset for one of the island’s most scenic beer experiences.
Summary: How to Experience Korea’s Craft Beer Culture
Exploring Korean breweries isn’t just about tasting beer—it’s about understanding how the country’s creative energy reshapes a traditional industry. Each region has its own character: Seoul offers innovation, Busan delivers atmosphere, and Jeju blends nature with craft.
Here’s a quick checklist for travelers:
- 🍺 Language: Most brewery menus include English translations.
- 🕒 Best Time to Visit: April–June and September–October for festivals and mild weather.
- 🚇 Transportation: Use subways in Seoul; taxis or craft beer tours in Busan and Jeju.
- 💸 Average Price: ₩8,000–₩12,000 per pint; tours ₩10,000–₩70,000.
For craft beer enthusiasts, Korea offers something new—a fusion of creativity, local flavor, and youthful energy. Whether you’re exploring Seoul’s urban bars or Jeju’s ocean-view breweries, one thing’s certain: Korean beer culture is just getting started, and it’s best enjoyed with a full glass and an open mind.