May 22, 2026
“Another bottle of regional Soju, please!” Intellectual Property Spreads Nationwide via Soju Bottles! Cheers!
- MOIP × 7 Regional Liquor Companies launch campaign to “Revitalize Regional Economies through Intellectual Property.” -
- Collaboration with 7 Regional Liquor Companies : Daesun Distilling Co., Ltd.; Kumbokju Co., Ltd.; Bohae Brewery Co., Ltd.; Sunyang Soju Inc.; Muhak Co., Ltd.; Chungbuk Soju Co., Ltd.; and Hallasan Co., Ltd. -
The Ministry of Intellectual Property (MOIP), led by Minister KIM Yong Sun, announced that it will launch a campaign with seven leading regional liquor companies to promote regional economic revitalization through intellectual property (IP), in celebration of May as the “Month of Invention” and the 61st Invention Day on May 19, 2026.
This campaign was designed to deliver the message of IP policies to local communities in a familiar and accessible way by utilizing soju (Korean liquer) bottle labels, a medium closely integrated to everyday life. Participating companies include ▲Daesun Distilling Co., Ltd. (Busan), ▲Kumbokju Co., Ltd. (Daegu/Gyeongbuk), ▲Bohae Brewery Co., Ltd. (Gwangju/Jeonnam), ▲Sunyang Soju Inc. (Daejeon/Sejong/Chungnam), ▲Muhak Co., Ltd. (Ulsan/Gyeongnam), ▲Chungbuk Soju Co., Ltd. (Chungbuk), and ▲Hallasan Co., Ltd. (Jeju).
Starting in May, soju bottles distributed to restaurants, supermarkets and other retail outlets nationwide will carry the slogan, “Revitalizing Regional Economies through Intellectual Property.” This reflects MOIP’s commitment to bringing tangible vitality to local economies by protecting and fostering IP rights, which serves as unique regional assets. The actual distribution schedules may vary depending on each company’s production timeline.
The labels will also feature a QR code that links directly to the website of the Regional Intellectual Property Centers (RIPC, https://pms.ripc.org/www/) operating nationwide, improving access for potential policy beneficiaries. RIPCs provide customized services for local SMEs and small business owners, including comprehensive consultations on IP rights, IP support programs, idea consultations for prospective entrepreneurs, and connections to related institutional support programs. Detailed information can be obtained through the RIPC contact number (Telephone: 1661-1900).
MOIP plans to further raise public awareness of the campaign through online events on platforms such as YouTube, Instagram and Facebook. It will also continue to create opportunities for collaboration with regional companies that hold IP assets, with the aim of enhancing public understanding of IP.
Spokesperson JUNG Dae Sun of MOIP, stated, “This campaign is expected to serve as a meaningful example of cooperation between MOIP and regional companies, helping rediscover the value of regional brands. We will continue our multifaceted promotional efforts to ensure that regional IP assets serves as a driving force for revitalizing the local economy.”