Magpie Brewery

For connoisseurs of quality drinks and unique spaces, the Magpie brewery in Jeju City is an essential stop on any itinerary. It is a landmark destination for the entire craft industry that South Korea is famous for. Housed in a former tangerine storage warehouse, the brewery harmoniously blends industrial charm with the cozy atmosphere of a modern gastropub.

Magpie Brewery. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

One of Magpie's main features is the use of local ingredients from Jeju Island. In their brews, you can find notes of the famous local tangerines, sancho pepper, and even smoked pumpkin. The brewery is known for its bold approach to recipes: it was here that the country's first sour beer production was launched, and seasonal offerings are updated four times a year, reflecting the changing moods of nature.

In addition to the production facilities, there is a stylish tasting room and a spacious terrace where pets are welcome. The fresh air, the island's pure water, and the brewers' craftsmanship make every variety—from a classic Kolsch to an exotic "Pina Colada" ale—truly memorable.

To inquire about events or book tours, you can use the official communication channels. The brewery actively stays in touch with guests through its website.

The main reason to visit Magpie is, of course, the tasting of freshly brewed beer. Visitors are offered a wide selection of drinks on tap: from perennial classics to limited seasonal batches. Be sure to try the signature Baltic Porter or the refreshing Sour IPA. To get a full impression of the brewers' skill, it's best to order a tasting flight.

A great accompaniment to the drinks is the local Western-style pizza. The clam pizza (clam pizza) is particularly popular among gourmets, as its flavor perfectly highlights the hoppy notes of the beer. On sunny days, you can settle comfortably at the picnic tables on the outdoor terrace, enjoying the picturesque surroundings and the friendly atmosphere of the venue.

For those who want to go "behind the scenes" of the process, educational brewery tours are available. For a moderate fee (around 20,000 won), guides will explain the intricacies of brewing, their inspiration, and the secrets of using Jeju ingredients. The staff speaks excellent English and is always ready to help you choose a drink that suits your taste.

The most convenient way to reach the brewery, located at 23 Donghoecheon 1-gil, is by car or taxi. The establishment is situated in the northern part of the island in the Donghoecheon-dong district. A taxi ride from downtown Jeju City doesn't take very long and will cost approximately 10,000–15,000 won.

While the area can be reached by public transport, the brewery is located somewhat far from main bus routes, near a geriatric hospital. For maximum comfort and freedom of movement around the island, renting a car is recommended for travelers. When using a navigator, it is best to rely on exact coordinates or the official address of the establishment.

The story of Magpie Brewing Co. began in 2011 when four friends opened a small spot in one of Seoul's quiet alleys. They became pioneers who shaped the modern craft brewing culture in the country, offering bold and innovative solutions to the market.

In 2016, the company took a major step by moving its primary production to the north of Jeju Island. An abandoned tangerine warehouse was chosen and fully renovated for this purpose. This industrial space retained its character while becoming the embodiment of the modern Magpie brand aesthetic.

Over the years, the brewery has earned a reputation as an experimenter. It was here that Korea's first sour beer was brewed. For its tenth anniversary in 2021, the team released a special anniversary Sour IPA, continuing to use unique local products in their recipes, such as tangerine peel, which is traditionally used in Korean medicine.

To fully experience Magpie Brewery, most visitors need between 1 to 2 hours. This is plenty of time to leisurely enjoy a tasting flight of several beers and try the famous local pizza.

If you plan to join an organized brewery tour, you should budget an additional 40–60 minutes. If your goal is simply to stop by for a couple of glasses of fresh brew or to pick up an order to go, half an hour will be sufficient.

Please note the operating schedule before planning your visit, as the venue is closed at the beginning of the week. Monday and Tuesday are days off.

From Wednesday to Friday, the brewery welcomes guests from 12:00 to 20:00. On Saturday and Sunday, hours are extended until 21:00. Since the schedule may change due to holidays or private events, it is recommended to check the establishment's official website in advance.

A visit to the brewery can easily be combined with exploring other interesting sites on the island. The northern and central parts of Jeju are rich in theme parks and natural areas that offer entertainment for every taste—from walks through mazes to modern multimedia exhibitions.

Exploring the surrounding area will allow you to see the island from different perspectives: get to know its flora in botanical gardens or have fun in unique themed spaces.