Original Beer Company launches first canned lagers through GS25

limited-edition OBC set including larger glasses and OBC Beers. Courtesy of Original Beer Company

SEOUL, June 10 (AJP) - Original Beer Company, a South Korean craft brewer known for its champagne-style bottled beers, will launch its first canned products through GS25 convenience stores nationwide on June 11 as it seeks to expand beyond premium retail channels and reach a broader consumer base.

According to the company Wednesday, the initial lineup consists of OBC Lager Helles and OBC Lager Vienna, priced at 13,000 won (.5) for a four-can bundle.

The launch marks the brewery's first canned beer release since its founding in 2019 and represents a significant step in its retail expansion strategy. Until now, Original Beer Company has primarily sold its products through premium venues, including department stores, golf clubs and specialty retailers.

"With the launch of OBC Lager canned beer, we hope to offer consumers a different kind of beer experience in a more accessible format," a company official said.
 

Photos of OBC larger "Helles" and "Vienna" a first canned beer product by Original Beer Company. Courtesy of Original Beer Company

Original Beer Company has gained recognition both at home and abroad. It became the first Korean brewery to win a top-category award at the 2022 World Beer Awards and later earned a gold medal at the 2024 European Beer Star, one of the brewing industry's most prestigious competitions.

The company has also served as a sponsor of the Women's Tennis Association and La Liste, the international restaurant ranking guide.

OBC Lager Helles contains 4.8 percent alcohol by volume and features a bright golden color with herbal and floral hop aromas alongside a clean finish. OBC Lager Vienna, brewed with Vienna malt and carrying 5.3 percent alcohol by volume, offers a richer malt profile with notes of toasted bread and a mild sweetness.

The canned beers will also be available at the company's Samseong-dong flagship store in southern Seoul through in-store purchases as well as orders placed via Naver and KakaoTalk.

To coincide with the launch, GS25's Wine25 Plus platform will begin selling a limited-edition OBC lager glass set from June 15 for 24,500 won.