South Australia will take centre stage at Korea’s leading wine tradeshow later this month, earning the title of Guest Country of Honour following Minister Joe Szakacs’ trade mission to the country last year.
More than 20 South Australian wineries will attend the Daejeon International Wine Expo from 24 to 26 October, including three brands entering the Korean market for the first time. The Malinauskas Government is backing their participation, offering support to help local producers expand into Asia.
The three-day event expects to attract 100,000 attendees, including importers, distributors, retailers, and wine enthusiasts from 16 countries. Guest Country status provides an opportunity to promote South Australian wines and strengthen industry connections in Korea.
The recognition follows Minister Szakacs’ successful 2024 trade mission to Korea and Japan, where he highlighted the quality of South Australian wine and engaged with senior officials in Daejeon. Adelaide, recognised globally as one of 11 Great Wine Capitals alongside Bordeaux, Napa Valley, and Bilbao-Rioja, continues to reinforce its international reputation.
Korea is currently the 15th largest buyer of South Australian wine, with exports valued at $15.3 million annually, according to the latest ABS data. The Malinauskas Government has identified Korea as a priority for market diversification and has established the South Australian Wine Ambassadors Club, a network of advocates and importers that includes 14 South Korean members.
Tony Love, a respected Australian wine journalist and SAWAC patron, will attend DIWE to host masterclasses in the South Australian Wine Lounge and speak at the International Wine Conference. South Australian wine will also feature in the 2025 Korea Best Sommelier Contest, with the winning sommelier receiving a trip to the state’s wine regions, sponsored by Vinarchy.
Minister Szakacs said he proudly promoted South Australia’s interests during the Daejeon mission. He noted that the invitation to DIWE reflects the quality of South Australian wine and the industry’s strong international reputation.
“It’s a tremendous export opportunity for our producers and a chance to build deeper cooperation in wine, food, and cultural exchange between South Australia and South Korea,” he said.
Tony Love added that the event offers more than a trade platform. “It’s a privilege to showcase the very best of South Australian wines and tell our story in such a prestigious arena. Visiting directly allows us to emphasise the quality and relevance of our wines while promoting the South Australian way of life to tourists, business visitors, students, and families,” he said.
This international exposure reinforces South Australia’s ongoing commitment to supporting its wine industry and strengthening global connections through trade, culture, and shared expertise.
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