Kibex 2026 takes place in Seoul in April

Korea | Kibex (Korea International Beer Expo), Korea’s largest specialized exhibition for the beer industry, is set to return to Coex, Seoul, from 16–18 April 2026. Building on the remarkable momentum of its previous edition which drew more than 25,000 visitors and 7,000 professional buyers representing 74 countries Kibex 2026 is poised to further solidify its status as one of Asia’s most influential beer business platforms.

The event covers the entire value chain, from raw materials and brewing technology to distribution, retail tech, and consumer experience. With 440 booths featuring 250 exhibitors from 9 countries, the expo showcases an expansive range of 1640 brands. The exhibits include craft beers, non-alcoholic beverages, specialty drinks, state-of-the-art brewing facilities, packaging solutions, and smart retail systems. It serves as a strategic gateway for both emerging breweries looking to enter the Korean market and global brands seeking expansion across the Asian continent.

A core strength of Kibex is its systematic 1:1 Business Matching System. The platform facilitates high-impact networking by connecting exhibitors with pre-registered domestic and international buyers, hotel chains, e-commerce platforms, and retail giants, ensuring tangible business outcomes and collaborative opportunities.

Concurrent program – Kiba and Kibcon

The expo features two prestigious flagship events.

The Kiba (Korea International Beer Award) is a world-class competition where master brewers and industry experts evaluate flavor, technical skill, and innovation. Winning a Kiba medal significantly boosts brand credibility and market competitiveness.

The Kibcon (Korea International Beer Conference) is a forum featuring global speakers who discuss international trends, brewing innovations, and market strategies, providing essential intelligence for industry professionals.

Co-located event – Drink Seoul

To reflect the rapidly diversifying trends of the beverage market, Kibex has been held alongside Drink Seoul. Drink Seoul is a comprehensive beverage exhibition platform where visitors can explore not only beer, but also wine, traditional Korean liquor, sake, whisky, RTD, non-alcoholic beverages, and all categories of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks in one place.

As an all-encompassing beverage trade show, it showcases the full spectrum of the industry, reflecting the latest trends and diverse consumer preferences.

By co-hosting the two events, the exhibition provides industry professionals and visitors with broader business opportunities, expanded networking channels, and a more diverse and immersive experience across the entire beverage sector.

Spotlight on innovation and sustainability

Reflecting global shifts, Kibex 2026 will spotlight sustainability and tech innovation. From eco-friendly packaging and energy-efficient brewing systems to digital retail solutions, the expo explores how the industry can achieve green transitions and operational efficiency simultaneously.