[Visiting Breweries] 5. Haechang Brewery, a Brewery in Haenam, the Southernmost Village, Stamp Tour

Having left behind life in Seoul, Oh Byung-in, the CEO of Haechang Brewery, now brews soju in a secluded countryside home with a beautiful garden, surrounded by his beloved family. He believes that 'if you brew alcohol cheaply and carelessly, it will be treated cheaply and carelessly.' Imbued with pride and self-respect, using Haenam rice, water, and sea breeze, the makgeolli (Korean rice wine) brewed at his Haechang Brewery is filled with layers of flavor.

A brewery with a beautiful garden

Over 40 different types of trees densely fill the space.

The living quarters and garden of Haechang Brewery were built and landscaped in 1927 by Shibata Hikohei, who was born in Gunma Prefecture, Japan, and settled in Gangjin before finally making his home in Haenam. After liberation, Jang Nam-mun, the eldest son of the family, who founded Haenam Samhwa Elementary School, lived there, and it is believed that he obtained the brewery license in 1961. Later, Hwang Ui-kwon, who worked in the brewing industry, took over Haechang Brewery and brewed alcohol there for over 30 years. Since 2008, Oh Byung-in and Park Ria have been living there and running the brewery. 'Jujojang' refers specifically to a place where alcohol is brewed, while 'yangjojang' encompasses a wider range, including the brewing of alcohol, soy sauce, or vinegar. When looking at the names of companies with alcohol licenses, it's clear that outside of Jeolla-do, 'yangjojang' is overwhelmingly preferred, while within Jeolla-do, 'yangjojang' is rarely used, with most companies opting for 'jujojang.' The reason why it's Haechang Brewery (Jujojang) and not Haechang Yangjojang is due to this regional sentiment.

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Image Source: Haechang Brewery Homepage

Image Source: Haechang Brewery Homepage

Enjoy the purchased alcohol with delicious side dishes.