Busan-born wine creator launches “GAHSS’NA Bubbly Rosé,” a Korea-U.S. joint development project rooted in affection for the creator’s hometown. The wine made its official South Korean debut as a sponsor for the “Christmas Village” event held at the Busan Cinema Center.
As the only wine to incorporate Busan’s official design elements, GAHSS’NA Bubbly Rosé (affectionately known as Gassna Wine) was unveiled as a limited edition. Interestingly, the brand gained recognition in the United States prior to its Korean launch, having been featured at U.S. government receptions and public events. It is currently supplied to major U.S. casinos and airlines, drawing attention as a prime example of a Busan-branded product gaining international acclaim first.
Key Highlights of the Launch
The GAHSS’NA booth at the Christmas Village stood out with its unique identity, attracting a steady stream of local citizens and foreign tourists. The event featured several interactive programs:
- Wine Tasting Events: Samples of the premium sparkling rosé.
- Meet the Winemaker: Direct engagement with the creators.
- DIY Wine Glass Decorating: A hands-on experience for visitors.
A Blend of Washington Grapes and Busan Identity
Produced by RM Winery Korea—Busan’s only wine manufacturer—the project combines premium grape varieties from Washington State with Busan’s specific design and cultural identity. The sparkling rosé was specifically designed to evoke the imagery of fireworks, symbolizing Busan’s reputation as a “City of Festivals.”
“GAHSS’NA is more than just a wine; it is a ‘culture branding project’ that connects cities,” said Lee Ji-young, Director of RM Winery Korea. “By merging Busan’s sensory local identity with the sophisticated technology of Washington’s premium wine industry, we are expanding into a platform for exchange between Korea and the U.S.”
International Support and Future Outlook
In a rare move for a local creative project, Alaska/Hawaiian Airlines (headquartered in Washington) sponsored flight tickets for a buyer promotion to celebrate the Korean launch. This collaboration signifies the growing international reach of Busan’s city brand.
The GAHSS’NA project is expected to:
- Enhance Busan’s global city image.
- Attract younger generations and foreign tourists.
- Expand cultural and economic exchange between South Korea and the United States.
With foreign institutions already expressing interest and collaborative intent, the project serves as a significant milestone in proving the international potential of Busan’s cultural assets.
