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Exhibiting at Foodex Japan 2025

Tokyo
11 Mar - 13 Mar, 2025

Product Offerings

Products:

Korean Rice Wine (Makgeolli): Jangsoo Makgeolli, Walmae Makgeolli, Seoul Jangsoo Draft Makgeolli

Product Gallery:

Jangsoo 90 (Draft Makgeolli)

Jangsoo 90 (Draft Makgeolli)

Moonlight Yuzu

Moonlight Yuzu

Seoul Jangsoo Co., Ltd. – South Korea’s Leading Makgeolli Brewer

Seoul Jangsoo Co., Ltd. is a South Korean brewery specializing in traditional Korean rice wine (Makgeolli). Established in 1962, the company has been at the forefront of Korea’s fermented alcoholic beverage industry, pioneering the modernization of Makgeolli production while preserving the authentic flavors and cultural heritage of this iconic Korean drink.

Headquartered in Jincheon-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do, Seoul Jangsoo is the largest Makgeolli producer in South Korea, holding a dominant market share in the Korean rice wine sector.


Core Business & Product Offerings

Seoul Jangsoo specializes in the production of premium, high-quality Makgeolli, crafted using traditional brewing methods combined with modern fermentation technology.

Key Products

  • Jangsoo Makgeolli

    • The best-selling Makgeolli brand in Korea.
    • Brewed with 100% domestic rice and pure water, featuring a mild sweetness and a smooth, refreshing finish.
    • Alcohol Content: 6%
  • Walmae Makgeolli

    • A premium Makgeolli brand, designed for export and international markets.
    • Features a slightly higher rice concentration for a richer flavor profile.
    • Alcohol Content: 6%
  • Seoul Jangsoo Draft Makgeolli

    • A fresh, unpasteurized version of Jangsoo Makgeolli, available in draft form at specialty bars and restaurants.
    • Must be stored refrigerated to maintain its live probiotic cultures.
    • Alcohol Content: 6%

Seoul Jangsoo uses a low-temperature fermentation process, preserving the lactic acid bacteria and probiotics, making Makgeolli not just a flavorful beverage, but also a health-enhancing fermented drink.


Market Presence & Distribution

Seoul Jangsoo dominates South Korea’s Makgeolli market, holding a 40%+ market share, making it the leading Makgeolli brand nationwide.

Domestic Market Strategy

  • Retail Distribution: Available in major supermarkets, convenience stores, and hypermarkets across South Korea.
  • HORECA (Hotel, Restaurant, Café) Sector: Supplied to Korean BBQ restaurants, pubs, and traditional drinking establishments.
  • E-Commerce & Delivery Services: Offered on Korean online platforms such as Coupang, Gmarket, and Naver Shopping.

International Expansion

  • Makgeolli Exports to 20+ Countries, including Japan, the United States, China, Vietnam, and Europe.
  • Targeting the Global Craft Beverage Market, with Makgeolli increasingly popular among health-conscious and fermented drink consumers.
  • Strategic Partnerships with International Distributors to place products in Asian specialty grocery stores and premium liquor retailers.

The global Korean alcohol export market has been growing at 12% annually, with Makgeolli gaining traction as a trendy alternative to beer and wine.


Financial Performance & Growth Trends

Seoul Jangsoo has demonstrated consistent revenue growth, reflecting the expanding domestic and international demand for Makgeolli.

  • Korean Traditional Liquor Market Size: Estimated at $1.5 billion, with Makgeolli being the fastest-growing segment.
  • Annual Sales Growth: 15% increase in Makgeolli sales YOY, driven by increased Makgeolli consumption in younger demographics.
  • Rising Exports: Makgeolli exports have grown 300% in the past five years, with Seoul Jangsoo leading the charge.
  • Expansion of Premium Makgeolli Line: Higher-margin premium and flavored Makgeolli variants are expected to further boost revenue.

With global consumers seeking natural, probiotic-rich, and low-alcohol beverages, Seoul Jangsoo is well-positioned for continued growth.


Certifications & Compliance

Seoul Jangsoo adheres to strict quality control measures and meets domestic and international food safety standards.

  • HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) Certified – Ensuring food safety at all production stages.
  • ISO 22000 Food Safety Certification – Compliance with global food and beverage safety standards.
  • Korean Traditional Liquor Certification – Recognized as a heritage brewer of authentic Makgeolli.
  • HALAL Certification (for Export Markets) – Expanding into Muslim-friendly beverage segments.

These certifications enable Seoul Jangsoo to maintain consumer trust and expand its international reach.


Sustainability & Traditional Brewing Practices

Seoul Jangsoo is committed to sustainable production methods and the preservation of Korean brewing traditions.

  • Eco-Friendly Sourcing – Using 100% Korean rice, supporting local farmers and sustainable agriculture.
  • Minimal Processing – Ensuring natural fermentation without artificial additives or preservatives.
  • Recyclable & Sustainable Packaging – Transitioning to biodegradable bottles and eco-conscious materials.

With sustainability being a key purchasing factor for global consumers, Seoul Jangsoo’s ethical brewing approach strengthens its brand appeal.


Shipment & Export Data

Seoul Jangsoo is aggressively expanding its global distribution network, capitalizing on the rising demand for premium Makgeolli.

  • Annual Export Volume: Over 10 million liters of Makgeolli shipped internationally.
  • Top Export Markets: Japan, China, the United States, Vietnam, the United Kingdom, and Germany.
  • Private Label & OEM Services: Providing custom Makgeolli production for global retailers.

The export growth of Korean rice wines has outpaced traditional spirits, highlighting Makgeolli’s increasing international popularity.


Customer Testimonials & Industry Recognition

Seoul Jangsoo has received critical acclaim and positive feedback from both Korean and international consumers.

"Jangsoo Makgeolli is the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. It’s refreshing, smooth, and pairs perfectly with Korean cuisine."
Korean Food & Beverage Critic

"Makgeolli is gaining traction in the craft beverage world, and Seoul Jangsoo is leading the way with high-quality, traditional brewing methods."
Japanese Distributor of Korean Alcoholic Beverages

The company has been featured in major food and beverage expos, including:

  • Seoul International Wines & Spirits Expo – Presenting Makgeolli as a premium Korean traditional liquor.
  • SIAL China & FOODEX Japan – Showcasing Makgeolli’s appeal in Asia’s growing craft beverage market.
  • Vinexpo Paris & New York Wine Expo – Introducing Makgeolli to European and North American audiences.

These events help Seoul Jangsoo establish partnerships and expand its global presence.


Strategic Growth & Future Outlook

Seoul Jangsoo is actively pursuing long-term growth strategies, focusing on premiumization, product diversification, and international expansion.

  • Development of Flavored & Infused Makgeolli – Catering to younger consumers and health-conscious drinkers.
  • Expansion into North America & Europe – Strengthening distribution networks in premium liquor and Asian grocery channels.
  • Technology & Automation Investments – Increasing efficiency in fermentation, bottling, and logistics.
  • Marketing & Consumer Education – Raising awareness of Makgeolli as a versatile, probiotic-rich, and low-alcohol alternative.

With global demand for fermented and craft alcoholic beverages rising, Seoul Jangsoo is positioned to lead the international Makgeolli market and redefine Korean traditional liquors for modern consumers.