Korean spirits turn bestsellers in global markets on Kwave

[Provided by Hite Jinro]

South Korea’s liquors are riding on the popularity of Korean contents to become bestsellers overseas.

According to market researcher Euromonitor International on Wednesday, Hite Jinro’s soju topped sales in Vietnamese spirits market to beat out local labels. Shipments to Vietnam increased last year despite 5 percent drop in liquor sales in Vietnam. Korean liquors are offered across all grocery retailers from big-box stores to convenience stores.

Oriental Brewery (OB) also enjoys rising sales at home and abroad. Its beer brand Blue Girl has been at the top for the 16th straight year in Hong Kong. Although the beer brand debuted in Hong Kong in 1998 at a humble share of 1 to 2 percent, it later became a bestseller.

Korea’s traditional wine makgeolli is also gaining popularity worldwide. Kooksoondag Brewery’s brand “100 Billion Prebiotics Makgeolli” recorded an export volume of $1 million last year. It made the achievement two years after the launch.

Jipyeong Brewery has been exploring the international market by joining the world’s largest food expo, SIAL Paris 2022, last month to showcase its traditional liquors and hold tasting events.

By Lee Sang-hyun and Jenny Lee