Gaktae Brewery Reinterprets Traditional Gwahaju Method
A Successful Example of Youth Entrepreneurship
Gaktae Brewery, a traditional liquor manufacturer located at the Buyeo Youth Center in Chungnam, had its signature drink, Gamtanju, selected for the "2025 Chungnam Alcohol TOP10" on June 17. The event was hosted by Chungnam Province and the Chungnam Economic Promotion Agency.
According to Buyeo County on June 19, the "Chungnam Alcohol TOP10" is an annual tasting and awards event aimed at discovering and fostering outstanding traditional liquors produced in Chungnam. Only breweries with a liquor manufacturing license in the province that use at least 70% Chungnam-grown agricultural products and have sold the product for at least three months as of the submission date are eligible to participate.
This year, 52 products from 36 breweries competed fiercely for selection.
Gamtanju is a traditional liquor brewed mainly with eco-friendly rice from Buyeo County, using a modern reinterpretation of the traditional Gwahaju method. It has an alcohol content of 13%.
With its clear and smooth flavor, Gamtanju balances the refreshing citrus aroma of Hallabong tangerines with a subtle rice fragrance. Its smooth finish makes it true to its name, inspiring "admiration" with every sip.
Gamtanju stands alongside other representative Chungnam traditional liquors such as Hansan Sogokju and Chusa Apple Wine, recognized for its quality and originality. It will receive various distribution and promotional support, including exhibitions at the provincial government promotional center, participation in domestic and international expos, and online marketing initiatives.
Kim Taewan, CEO of Gaktae Brewery, stated, "Gamtanju is a liquor made using Buyeo's excellent agricultural products, and I hope it serves as an opportunity for both the local agricultural and traditional liquor industries to grow together." He added, "We will continue to promote Gamtanju and the charms of Buyeo to more people through ongoing cooperation with the local community."
A county official commented, "This award for Gaktae Brewery is a meaningful achievement, serving as a representative example that demonstrates the potential and results of youth entrepreneurship."
Meanwhile, Gaktae Brewery is a company located in the startup space within the Buyeo County Youth Center. The county currently operates four youth startup spaces, providing opportunities to young entrepreneurs through open competitions, and this award has demonstrated the effectiveness of those policies.
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