Visitors Guide to Busan Beer and Korea’s Craft Brewing Scene

Discover the best Busan beer bars, breweries, and Korea’s growing craft beer scene. Explore top spots, local favorites, and tips for beer lovers visiting Busan.

Why Busan is Korea’s Craft Beer Hotspot

Korea has long been known for big-name lagers like Cass and Hite, but over the last decade, craft beer has taken the country by storm. And nowhere is this more exciting than in Busan, a coastal city famous for its beaches, seafood, and nightlife. Whether you’re a traveler searching for unique brews or a local looking for the perfect pint, Busan’s craft beer culture offers something for everyone.



The Rise of Craft Beer in Korea

Not long ago, beer in Korea meant mass-produced light lagers. But thanks to changes in brewing laws and a wave of independent brewers, Korea now has a thriving craft beer industry. Today, brewers experiment with everything from yuzu-infused ales to IPA styles that rival U.S. and European favorites. Seoul may have started the movement, but Busan is quickly becoming the must-visit city for beer lovers.

Why Busan is a Craft Beer Hub

As Korea’s second-largest city and a bustling port, Busan has always had an international flair. That global influence, combined with a strong local community, has fueled the growth of breweries and taprooms. Busan’s beaches—Haeundae and Gwangalli in particular—are dotted with bars serving locally brewed IPAs, stouts, and sours, making it easy to enjoy a cold pint with an ocean view.

Top Breweries in Busan You Can’t Miss

1. Galmegi Brewing

• One of Busan’s first craft breweries.
• Famous for its IPA and Vanilla Cream Ale.
• Taprooms across the city, including near Gwangan Beach.

2. Wild Wave Brewing

• Known for bold flavors like their Surfing High IPA.
• Beachside location in Haeundae makes it perfect for a sunset beer.

3. Gorilla Brewing

• Stylish taproom in Gwangalli.
• Rotating seasonal brews and experimental sours.
• Beach front accessible taproom in Haeundae

4. Galmegi Taproom in Nampo

• Great for pairing Busan street food with a fresh pint.

Craft Beer Bars & Taprooms in Busan

Haeundae

• Busan Beer Haeundae Tap (부산맥주 해운대탭) – Flagship taproom for Busan Beer Company, right by the beach. Perfect for tourists and beachgoers.

Gwangalli

• OWL & PUSSYCAT – Local favorite near Gwangalli Beach, with a reliable tap list and relaxed vibe. Great for a pint after a beach stroll.

Seomyeon / Jeonpo (Downtown nightlife hub)

• SÜDEN Craftbeer (주든) – Modern taproom with German-style brewing influences.
• HUGUS Beer Pub – Friendly neighborhood spot serving Korean craft beers and imports.
• FUNNY BEER – Casual bar with a wide selection, lively late-night atmosphere.
• Fritz Fritz (Jeonpo Café Street) – Trendy bar serving Korean craft beers and snacks.
• Cabin Boy (캐빈보이) – Nautical-themed pub with quirky vibes and rotating taps.
• OSIGE Craft Beer & Bar – Taproom specializing in local brews, solid bar food menu.
• Colorred – Stylish interiors, known for a broad bottle/can selection.
• Beer Shop (Jeonpo) – Popular for sampling multiple Korean craft labels in one place.
• CRAFT HANS Seomyeon – Part of a national chain, reliable for casual craft-style lagers.
• My Hangout (마이 행아웃) – Affordable pints and lively student-friendly atmosphere.
• hhh Busan (흐흐흐) – Minimalist, hip bar with craft beer and cocktails.
• 꼽표xxx – Edgy and experimental bar with rotating taps (check spelling/branding locally).

Nampo

• TacoPop by Tia (타코팝 바이 티아) – Mexican-inspired bites paired with Korean craft beers and rotating taps.
• Galmegi Brewing Nampo – Branch of Busan’s pioneering brewery, perfect to pair with Nampo street food adventures.
• Colorred (also has Nampo presence) – Good spot to grab bottled/canned craft beers in the area.

Yeongdo

• Sour Yeongdo (사우어영도) – Specialty taproom focusing on sour and experimental brews.



Songjeong

• Beer Phobe – Cozy pub near Songjeong Beach offering rotating selections from Korea and abroad; great for tastings.

Craft Beer Festivals in Korea

If your trip lines up, don’t miss these:

• Busan International Beer Festival (usually in the fall) – The city’s biggest beer event.
• Great Korean Beer Festival (Seoul) – Features brewers from across Korea.
• Local tap takeovers & beachside events – Breweries often release limited editions.

Tips for Beer Lovers Visiting Busan

• Learn a phrase: “맥주 한 잔 주세요” (maek-ju han jan ju-se-yo) = “One beer, please.”
• Expect prices between ₩6,000–₩10,000 per pint.
• Pair craft beer with Busan specialties like grilled clams, seafood pancakes, and spicy tteokbokki.

FAQ

Is craft beer popular in Korea?

Yes! Craft beer is booming in Korea, especially in Seoul and Busan, where breweries are thriving.

Where can I find the best craft beer in Busan?
Head to breweries like Galmegi, Wild Wave, and Gorilla Brewing, or explore taprooms in Haeundae and Gwangalli.

What makes Korean craft beer unique?
Brewers often use local ingredients like yuzu, ginger, and Jeju oranges for fresh, innovative flavors.

From beachside IPAs to hidden taprooms, Busan’s beer scene is as exciting as its nightlife and food culture. Whether you’re a casual drinker or a craft beer enthusiast, this city is a must-visit on Korea’s beer map. Next time you’re in Busan, skip the mass-produced lagers and dive into the world of Korea craft beer.