Ki One Distillery: Crafting Korea’s Whisky Legacy with Korean Single Malt Excellence
- Melissa Edwards-Whittington
- Jul 25
- 10 min read
By: Melissa Edwards-Whittington
Photos by: Melissa Edwards-Whittington and Ki One Distillery
Korean single malt whisky is making waves in the global spirits scene, and at the heart of this movement is Ki One Distillery. Located just outside Seoul, this trailblazing distillery combines Korean ingredients, climate, and culture to create truly distinctive whiskies. In this article, we explore how Ki One is reshaping perceptions of Korean spirits and becoming a leading name in Korean craft whisky.
How a Bold Vision, Korean Spirit, and Global Expertise Created Korea’s First Single Malt Whisky
Nestled in the scenic hills of Namyangju, just east of Seoul, a quiet revolution is taking place. At Ki One Distillery, formerly known as Three Societies Distillery, copper stills hum with promise, barrels breathe in the changing seasons, and a new chapter in Korea’s cultural story is being written one dram at a time. This is more than a distillery; it's a pioneering force determined to put Korean whisky on the global map while honoring the traditions, ingredients, and soul of its homeland.
The Birth of Ki One and Korean Single Malt Whisky: A New Chapter for Korean Spirits
Whisky has long been the domain of Scotland, Japan, and the American South, until now. With Ki One Distillery, Korea has boldly entered the global whisky scene, creating not just a new label but an entirely new category: Korean single malt. Born from the vision of serial entrepreneur and craft beverage pioneer Bryan Do and brought to life under the craftsmanship of seasoned Scottish distiller Andrew Shand, Ki One is redefining what whisky can be. Here, their whiskey is rooted in Korean identity, refined by international expertise, and recognized around the world.
What Makes Korean Single Malt Whisky Unique
From overcoming a non-existent whisky infrastructure in Korea to experimenting with native oak and seasonal extremes, Ki One’s story is as bold and layered as its spirits. This is more than a tale of fermentation and barrels—it’s a story of innovation, cultural pride, and a mission to reshape Korea's drinking culture from consumption to appreciation.
How Ki One Redefines Korean Identity Through Single Malt Whisky
For Bryan Do, Ki One is not just a brand, it’s a mission to reclaim and reframe Korean identity through premium spirits.
"We didn’t just want to make whisky in Korea," Bryan says. "We wanted to make Korean whisky."
Ki One’s Use of Korean Ingredients and Symbolism
This distinction is crucial. Whisky has traditionally represented prestige, celebration, and craftsmanship in Western cultures. In Korea, where soju and beer have long dominated the alcohol landscape, introducing a premium product like single malt whisky is both a challenge and an opportunity to elevate Korean drinking culture.
Ki One whisky is intentionally Korean, from its locally sourced ingredients to its cultural packaging. The name itself, "Ki One" (기원), means "beginning" or "hope" in Korean, symbolizing both the birth of Korea’s whisky era and a more profound cultural shift. Labels are printed on traditional hanji paper, while bottle designs draw from hanbok colors. Together, they are turning every detail into an homage to heritage.
You can learn more about how Ki One blends Korean culture with whisky innovation in this CNA Luxury deep dive.
Crafting a Korean Identity Through Whisky
Creating a Korean single malt was also about expanding the narrative of Korean craftsmanship.
As Bryan explains, "Soju may be our most recognized spirit, but it hasn't historically represented premium Korean craft. Whisky allows us to elevate our national identity in a new way."
How Ki One Innovates Korean Single Malt Whisky for a New Generation
At the helm of Ki One’s production is Master Distiller Andrew Shand, whose decades of experience in Scotland and making Japanese whisky help ensure the highest standards in each step. Yet, what makes Ki One special is its Korean soul.
Aging Korean Single Malt Whisky in Korea’s Unique Climate
"If Japanese whisky is like miso, subtle and refined, then Korean whisky is more like cheonggukjang," Bryan notes. "Bold, intense, and unforgettable."
This boldness is evident in their use of Korean oak, extended fermentation times of up to 150 hours, and local climate-driven aging, which brings out deep complexity.
"The weather here is extreme, and it turns out that’s a blessing," Andrew says. "The heat and cold create a rapid but sophisticated maturation process that gives our whisky a sense of age beyond its years."
For more about how Ki One blends innovation and Korean terroir, check out Whisky Magazine’s feature on Ki One Distillery
Ki One’s Fermentation and Cask Innovations
Ki One doesn’t just borrow tradition; it challenges and evolves it. The distillery experiments with specialty beer malts, native Korean yeast, and even cask exchanges with local breweries. Among their standout innovations is the All-Korean Batch, crafted entirely with Korean ingredients and aged in Tteokgal oak, a homage to terroir that can only exist in this part of the world.
Whisky Tourism in Korea: Experience Korean Single Malt at Ki One Distillery
Wanting to explore the intersection of Korean culture and whisky firsthand? In that case, Ki One offers guided tours.
They are the perfect opportunity to see up close how this whisky is crafted and to taste it at various stages. Tours are available in both Korean and English, making them accessible to domestic and international visitors alike.
What to Expect on a Ki One Distillery Tour
The tours walk guests through the entire whisky-making process—from grain to glass—while highlighting how Korean ingredients, climate, and cultural philosophy shape the final product. Visitors can sample various expressions, learn about the use of Korean oak, and see how traditional design and modern innovation coexist in every detail of the distillery.
How Korean Culture Shapes the Whisky Experience
"We wanted to create a place where people can experience whisky through a Korean lens," Bryan says. "It’s not just about the drink. It’s about where it comes from, how it’s made, and what it says about who we are."
These tours aren’t just educational, they’re cultural, inviting guests to rethink Korean spirits and appreciate how one bottle can hold centuries of tradition, climate, and craftsmanship.
Global Recognition of Korean Single Malt Whisky from Ki One Distillery: From Namyangju to the World
Despite being young in whisky years, Ki One has already earned international recognition. Their awards include a Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and a high commendation from the Icons of Whisky 2025. The distillery was even named one of the Top 10 Most Anticipated New Whisky Distilleries in the World by The Drinks Business.
Awards and Recognition for Ki One Korean Whisky
For details on Ki One’s recent accolades, check out this Korea Times article on their global traction.
"We believe the judges recognized that we’re not mimicking Scotch or bourbon," Bryan shares. "We’re creating something new, something Korean."
Changing Global Perceptions of Korean Spirits
These accolades have not only validated the brand but also helped redefine Korean craftsmanship for a global audience.
"People no longer ask, 'Why Korean whisky?'—they ask, 'Where can I get it?'” Bryan laughs.
Ki One Distillery: Crafting a Cultural Legacy Through Korean Whisky
More than a brand or a distillery, Ki One is becoming a cultural movement. As Korea builds its identity in the global whisky world, Ki One stands at the forefront, blending heritage, environment, and innovation.
"Whisky, for me, is nostalgia," Bryan reflects. "It's not just a drink. It’s who you were with, why you drank it, and what you felt. We want Ki One to be part of those moments, in Korea and around the world."
Andrew Shand adds, "I’ve seen people completely surprised by how complex our whisky is. They don’t expect something this rich and layered to come from a young distillery in Korea. That reaction means we’re doing something right."
Shaping the Future of Korean Single Malt Whisky
As the first mover in a growing industry, Ki One carries the responsibility of shaping not only its future but that of Korean whisky as a whole. Bryan and Andrew believe this is just the start of a broader movement, one that will see more distilleries, deeper infrastructure, and global appreciation for Korean flavor profiles.
"In 10 years, we want Korean whisky to be its own respected category, just like Japanese whisky became in the early 2000s," Bryan says. "Ki One will continue to innovate, but we also hope to inspire a new generation of Korean distillers."
Their advice for aspiring whisky makers?
"Start with purpose. Know your 'why, '" Bryan says. "It’s not just about making alcohol. It’s about storytelling, tradition, and the kind of legacy you want to build."
Andrew echoes the sentiment, emphasizing craft over shortcuts.
"Whisky takes time. But when you do it right, that time becomes part of the story in every bottle."
As the world takes its first sip of Korean single malt, one thing is clear: this is only the beginning.
Explore Ki One’s Award-Winning Korean Single Malt Whisky Expressions
Three distinct expressions are currently offered, each with its own story and flavor profile.
Flavor Profiles of Ki One’s Signature Expressions
Ki One Tiger Edition – A vibrant, fruit-forward whisky aged in red wine and sherry casks. Expect flavors of honeyed plum, dried fig, and warm spice. This expression captures the boldness and energy of Korea’s transformation into a whisky-producing nation.
Ki One Eagle Edition – A richer, more traditional profile aged in virgin American oak and bourbon casks. With notes of vanilla, banana, toasted oak, and a touch of cinnamon, the Eagle embodies strength and heritage with a Korean twist.
Ki One Unicorn Edition – A rare peated single malt for those who enjoy a smoky finish. The Unicorn blends soft layers of citrus, smoke, and earthy depth, offering a uniquely Korean take on a globally beloved style.
The Story Behind Each Ki One Whisky Release
For tasting notes and in-depth review, check out WhiskyNotes’ take on Ki One Single Malt.
Whether you're discovering Ki One for the first time or collecting each edition, these whiskies are crafted to be savored—and remembered. To learn more about these expressions or explore future releases, visit https://kione.co.kr/eng.
Ki One. The first. The beginning. The spirit of Korea.
Where to Buy and Taste Ki One Korean Single Malt Whisky
For those ready to experience the bold character of Korean single malt, Ki One is now available on USFK military installations across the peninsula at local AAFES stores and shopettes. It is also available at select local retailers throughout Korea.
Check here for more details on where to purchase: https://blog.naver.com/ki-one/223712198331
How to Book a Ki One Distillery Tour
Ready to experience Ki One up close? Booking a distillery tour is easy. Simply visit the Ki One website and click the reservation link, which will direct you to their official Naver booking page. From there, you can select your preferred date and language (Korean or English) for a guided experience through Korea’s first single malt whisky distillery.
Book your visit here: https://booking.naver.com/booking/6/bizes/448865
Accessibility at Ki One Distillery is partially limited due to the layout of the facility. The main tour includes visits to the fermentation and tasting areas, both located on the second floor, which unfortunately are not wheelchair accessible. However, guests who require accessible accommodations can still enjoy the warehouse portion of the tour, which is located on the ground level and does not require the use of stairs. The full tour experience lasts approximately two hours, and the team at Ki One is happy to assist in making the visit as comfortable and informative as possible for all guests.
[NAVER Map]
KI ONE WHISKY DISTILLERY
384-20 Nokchon-ri Hwado-eup Namyangju-si Gyeonggi-do
KimchiRednecks Explore Korean Single Malt Whisky at Ki One Distillery
On our Shining with KimchiRednecks YouTube channel, we recently took a deep dive into Korea’s first single malt and single grain whisky—Ki One Whisky. In this video, we attended a whisky tasting event at NōM BeEr Co. in Pyeongtaek, interviewed founder Bryan Do, and toured the innovative Ki One Distillery in Namyangju, home of Korean single malt whisky.
It’s an entertaining and informative look at one of Korea’s most groundbreaking whisky brands, offering a unique perspective on the rise of Korean whisky from a cultural and craft standpoint.
Get ready to sip, learn, and discover the story behind Korean single malt excellence.
Learn More About Ki One in the News
Curious to dive deeper into the story behind Ki One and the rise of Korean single malt whisky? These trusted sources provide unique insights into the brand’s evolution, vision, and global impact:
Korea Times – Korea’s First Single Malt Whisky Produced in Hills of Namyangju Learn how Ki One Distillery is making history as Korea's first single malt whisky producer.
The Drinks Business – South Korea Launches Its First Single Malt Whisky Explore how Ki One is positioning Korean whisky on the global stage with bold innovation.
Korea Herald – Ki One Distillery Brings Global Prestige to Korean Whisky Discover the international reception and production philosophy behind Ki One.
UCLA Magazine – Bryan Do Distills Korea’s First Single Malt Whisky Get to know founder Bryan Do and how his entrepreneurial journey led to Ki One’s creation.
Maeil Business News (MK.co.kr) – Ki One, the Spark of Korea’s Whisky Industry A look at how Ki One is trailblazing a new market and inspiring future distillers in Korea.
Maeil Business News (MK.co.kr) – From Namyangju to the World: Ki One’s Global Ambitions Learn about Ki One’s expansion plans and vision for Korean single malt whisky worldwide.
The Future of Korean Single Malt Whisky Begins with Ki One
As global interest in Korean single malt whisky continues to grow, Ki One Distillery remains at the forefront of this exciting movement—blending tradition, innovation, and cultural pride in every bottle. From the hills of Namyangju to whisky shelves around the world, Ki One is not just producing spirits; it’s shaping a new legacy for Korea.
Whether you're a seasoned whisky enthusiast or a curious newcomer, exploring Ki One is more than a tasting experience—it’s an invitation to witness the beginning of something truly groundbreaking.
Raise a glass to bold beginnings. Raise a glass to Ki One.
Disclaimer:
This article is intended for readers of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly. The views expressed in this article are those of the authors and interviewees and do not constitute an endorsement of alcohol consumption by United on the RoK magazine or any affiliated organizations. Always follow local laws and military regulations regarding the purchase and consumption of alcohol.
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