SEOUL, February 25 (AJP) -South Korea’s passion for coffee was on full display this week as the 2026 Seoul Cafe & Bakery Fair Season 1 opened at SETEC in southern Seoul. The four-day exhibition runs from Feb. 25 to 28.
The fair brings together the full spectrum of the cafe and bakery industry — from specialty coffee and artisanal bread to desserts, beverages and franchise services. Visitors can also attend consulting programs on startup planning and store operations.
The venue is organized into themed halls, including “Roastery B” for specialty coffee and roasting brands, “Tea Village” for traditional and blended teas, “Zero Planet” for eco-friendly food and beverage products, and “Korea Spirit Festa” for alcoholic beverage brands.
Korea’s deepening coffee culture is reflected in trade data. According to Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corp., citing figures from the Korea Customs Service, coffee imports reached about 2.65 trillion won in 2025 — a record high and more than 40 percent higher than a year earlier. Import volume totaled roughly 215,000 tons.
Adding to the atmosphere, the Korea Latte Art Championship is being held alongside the fair, drawing skilled baristas and enthusiastic crowds.
The exhibition continues through Feb. 28 at SETEC in Seoul’s Gangnam District — a fitting stage for a country that has firmly established itself as one of the world’s most devoted coffee cultures.
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