On the last day of the “2025 Korea Wine & Spirits Awards EXPO” at 10 a.m. on the 9th, visitors began lining up outside the SETEC near Hangnyeoul station an hour before opening. Jeong Kyung-soo, 30, who came for the “open run,” even brought a shopping cart to buy alcohol. Jeong, who operates a restaurant in Bundang-gu, Seongnam, said, “I often visit liquor expos, and I came because ‘Hwajeonilchwi’ and ‘Dudumulmul’ are participating in the expo.”
As opening time approached at 11 a.m., the line of visitors waiting to enter grew longer. Some visitors were watching YouTube to pass the time during the long wait. Many others were seen carrying shopping carts or travel carry-ons, like Jeong.
As entry began, many people lined up in front of popular booths such as “Menge Distillery,” known for its Andong Jinmaek soju, “SIEGA,” known for its cinnamon-flavored liqueur, and “COREVEST,” famous for its honey wine.
In front of “Yangjudoga,” well known for its yuja sparkling makgeolli “Yutokjatok,” many visitors gathered to sample the drinks. Yangjudoga also showcased its new product, “Peach Makgeullim,” for tasting at this expo. One visitor said, “(Yutokjatok) was so delicious that I bought it at another expo last year,” and she bought both Yutokjatok and Peach Makgeullim that day. Other visitors commented, “It’s fragrant and so tasty,” suggesting they would check out other booths before buying more on their way out.
The “2025 Korea Wine & Spirits Awards EXPO,” which selects the best alcohols in Korea, has been ongoing since the 7th at the SETEC near Hangnyeoul station and will continue for three days. The first day featured an awards ceremony and expert lectures, followed by various experiential programs for general consumers and alcohol enthusiasts on the second day. On the final day, classes on wine and cocktails, as well as an auction show, are scheduled.
Starting at 1 p.m. that day, Kim Sang-mi, head of the WSA Wine Academy, regarded as the best wine education institution in the country, will give a 40-minute lecture on “Interesting Wine Stories.” At 2 p.m., bartender Park Joo-seong will conduct a cocktail class, introducing various homemade highball recipes, including the “NEW Homemade Highball Recipe,” that can easily be followed at home.
From 4 p.m., comedians Park Seong-kyun, Park Hyeon-seok, and Moon Ji-wan will perform stand-up comedy. A prize draw event will also be held, featuring various alcohol sets awarded by the Korea Wine & Spirits Awards, along with specially crafted souvenirs.
This expo has showcased over 200 booths across three exhibition halls until that day. It has been evaluated as a comprehensive festival that goes beyond tasting and sales to display the current state and future of the domestic liquor industry.