Dokkaebier Celebrates Top Craft Beer Innovators to Watch in 2024

We are excited to announce that our founder, Youngwon Lee, has been featured in Hop Culture’s "Best People to Watch in Craft Beer 2024." This recognition reflects Youngwon's dedication to reshaping the craft beer landscape through his innovative approach and deep cultural roots.

Youngwon's journey has taken him from Korea to Guam, New Jersey, and finally California. During his time in Korea, where he cared for his grandmother, he reignited his passion for brewing by working at The Booth, a Korean-owned brewery. When that venture ended in the U.S., Youngwon was determined to share his cultural heritage through craft beer, infusing Dokkaebier with his vision of blending Korean ingredients into traditional brewing.

Each brew is a playful homage to Korean folklore, inspired by the dokkaebi (도깨비)—shape-shifting creatures known for their love of food and drink. This spirit of experimentation shines through in our flagship offerings, like the Kimchi Sour, made with ginger and gochugaru peppers, and our LP Witbier, which features a delightful blend of lemongrass and peppercorns.

Youngwon’s commitment to quality and cultural representation in every can sets Dokkaebier apart in the craft beer community. We are proud to have him leading our brewery, reminding us that great beer is more than just a drink; it’s a way to connect with others and share stories.

• Van and Sumit Sharma
  Co-Founders of Rupee Beer, they aim to create the best beer to pair with Indian cuisine and dishes worldwide. Their award-winning brewery reflects their heritage and challenges stereotypes about Indians and alcohol.
• Beny Ashburn and Teo Hunter
  Founders of Crowns & Hops Brewing Co., they are recognized for disrupting the craft beer industry and building a brand that extends beyond beer. They are the first Black-owned, woman-owned, and veteran-owned brewery based in Inglewood, CA.
• Kelissa Hieber
  Owner and Head Brewer of Goldspot Brewing, Hieber has established the Denver-based brewery as a welcoming and safe space for all community members.
• Kemet Coleman, Woodie Bonds, and Elliott Ivory
  Co-founders of Vine Street Brewing Co., Missouri's first Black-owned brewery, they opened a two-story taproom, brewhouse, and beer garden in Kansas City's historic 18th & Vine Jazz District to foster community and inspiration.
• LeAnn Darland and Tara Hankinson
  Co-founders of TALEA Beer Co., they expanded their brand in 2023 with two new locations in Bryant Park and the West Village. Their West Village location on Christopher Street is just two blocks from The Stonewall Inn, a historic landmark for LGBTQ+ rights.
• Kevin Asato
  As the Executive Director of the National Black Brewers Association (NB2A), Asato leads efforts to promote and support Black brewers in the United States. The NB2A aims to increase African American representation in the brewing industry at all levels, especially ownership and brewmasters.
• Alex Kidd
  Founder of "Don't Drink Beer" and host of the "Malt Couture Podcast," Kidd is known for his satirical and insightful commentary on the craft beer scene. His platforms have garnered a significant following for their unique perspective on beer culture.
• Garrett Marrero
  As the CEO and Co-Founder of Maui Brewing Company, Marrero has been instrumental in promoting Hawaiian craft beer. Under his leadership, the brewery has grown to become one of the largest in Hawaii, known for its commitment to sustainability and local ingredients.
• Craig Bowers and Samuel Chawinga
  Co-Founders of People's Republic of South Central, Bowers and Chawinga focus on creating a community-centric brewery that reflects the rich cultural heritage of South Central Los Angeles. Their mission includes fostering inclusivity and representation within the craft beer industry.

These 14 industry leaders are shaping the future of craft beer, and we’re honored to be part of the same list. Their contributions inspire innovation, diversity, and a greater appreciation for craft beer worldwide.

Explore our collection of award-winning craft beers in our online store. From crisp lagers to bold sours, we offer something for everyone. Discover the flavors that have earned Dokkaebier its reputation in the craft beer community.

Inspired by the playful dokkaebi spirits from Korean folklore, Dokkaebier is all about fun, unique flavors, and bringing people together. We mix ingredients from across Asia to craft beers that are both exciting and diverse.

We’re not just brewing beer—we’re on a mission to make Dokkaebier a name you associate with great experiences and a more inclusive craft beer scene.

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