A Summer Night at Jeju Iho Tewoo: A Record of Local Alcohol and Jazz, 2025 Jeju Hanjan Woori-sul Festival

The Taste of Jeju Encountered at Iho Tewoo on a Summer Night

I visited Iho Tewoo Beach (Iho Tewoo Haesuyokjang) just as the heat of the day began to fade. The reason I felt particularly excited today at this place, where the red and white horse-shaped lighthouses stand side by side, is that the 2025 Jeju Hanjan Woori-sul Festival was taking place. A breeze mixed with the scent of the sea brushed against my cheeks, and the melodies of jazz drifting from afar tickled my ears. The festival grounds spread across the sand had a subtle blend of the tranquility of traditional liquor and the vibrancy of a summer night, making me feel fuzzy and happy just by walking around.

40 Types of Alcohol, Containing the Times of Jeju

This festival, which gathers Jeju’s traditional breweries in one place—a unique event in the country—was truly a heaven for those who love alcohol. What I liked most was that beyond simply drinking, I could taste over 40 types of traditional liquor made with Jeju ingredients, served in small amounts by the glass. From makgeolli with its subtle fragrance to highballs made with Jeju distilled soju, each sip made Jeju linger on my tongue. The experience was even deeper when paired with side dishes made from local ingredients. Non-alcoholic drinks were also available, allowing my companions who are not big drinkers to join in and have a great time together.

The Charm of an Eco-friendly Festival

What impressed me most about this festival was its focus on being 'eco-friendly.' All food was served in multi-use containers, and cups were also provided as multi-use items; it was a unique experience to wash the cups myself at the washing zones set up around the venue. Rather than feeling like a hassle, the process of washing and reusing the cup I had used gave me a mindset of cherishing the festival even more. Programs like blind tasting quizzes and makgeolli-making experiences made me participate as joyfully as a child, and as the night deepened, jazz performances and cocktail shows colored the night sea of Iho Tewoo with even more romance.

Useful Tips for Travelers

Iho Tewoo Beach is close to downtown Jeju, so it is very accessible. I highly recommend visiting in the late afternoon just before sunset to enjoy the evening glow, and then having a drink with the night sea. The area around the festival venue can be quite crowded on weekends, so it is better to use public transport or arrive a little early. After enjoying the festival, enjoy a quiet night stroll along the nearby coastal road. As you walk while watching the lights of the lighthouses reflected in the sea, today's trip will remain a perfect memory.