Alcoholic beverage production fell to just under three million thousand litres, the first time below that level since 1998.
Beer shipments decreased by about seven percent compared with the previous year.
Soju shipments dropped to 793,000 thousand litres and rice liquor to 318,000 thousand litres.
Health awareness, population decline and changing social habits are driving the reduction.
Companies are launching non‑alcoholic and low‑alcohol drinks with new flavours.
Shipments of beer, soju and traditional rice liquor have been falling for several consecutive years.
The decline reflects a growing health consciousness, an ageing population and changes in social habits.
Manufacturers are introducing more non‑alcoholic and low‑alcohol options to meet new preferences.
Overall, the shift shows South Koreans are opting for healthier lifestyles.
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