Experience the Perfect Pairing: Wild Turkey Bourbon and Texas Barbecue at ‘Kentucky in Seoul’ Popup!

Minju Hwang | 2026.05.02

Experience Italian tradition and a commitment to lower distillation proof
Perfect pairing of Texas barbecue and bourbon
Wild Turkey’s endless reinventions, as imagined by top bartenders

Photo courtesy of Campari KoreaCampari Korea, the Italian premium spirits importer and distributor, opened a Wild Turkey pop-up in Seongsu-dong, Seoul to celebrate the brand’s global campaign.

Campari Korea staged a pop-up at Munz Barbecue in Seongsu-dong to spotlight Wild Turkey’s heritage and its pairing culture. Guests got to taste how a bourbon built on more than a century of conviction pairs seamlessly with authentic barbecue.

On the 30th, Campari Korea announced the “Kentucky in Seoul” pop-up will run at Munz Barbecue from the 1st through the 29th of next month. The activation promotes Wild Turkey’s global campaign: “WHEN YOU KNOW IT’S RIGHT, DON’T CHANGE A DAMN THING.”

Today’s younger drinkers crave more than just flavor—they want a story and a philosophy. Campari Korea brought Wild Turkey’s rugged, no-nonsense persona into trendy Seongsu to deepen emotional loyalty and make the brand feel relevant to a new audience.

For more than 100 years, Wild Turkey has maintained a lower distillation proof and adheres to a bottling standard of 50.5% ABV (101 proof). Attendees sampled three flagship expressions—Wild Turkey 101, the 8-Year, and Kentucky Spirit—experiencing the bourbon’s punch and layered flavors up close.

The real showstopper was the whiskey-and-food pairing. In partnership with Texas-style barbecue specialist Munz Barbecue, the pop-up served beef rib and brisket platters. A barbecue sauce made with Wild Turkey 101 stole the spotlight: the whiskey’s vanilla and oak notes married the meat’s juices and smoke in a way that felt effortless.

Photo courtesy of Campari KoreaGuest bartenders from bars named to the 2025 Asia’s 50 Best Bars—Kwon Yong-jin of Zest, Lee Jae-woong of Le Chamber, and Park Joo-sung of Sokoba—each presented cocktails interpreting Wild Turkey 101 in their own styles.

Star bartenders added extra spark. Kwon Yong-jin of Zest, Lee Jae-woong of Le Chamber, and Park Joo-sung of Sokoba appeared as guest bartenders, each crafting a unique cocktail built around Wild Turkey 101. They also showcased how whiskey can shine beyond neat or on the rocks—think highballs and creative mixed drinks—highlighting the spirit’s versatility.

Cody Taper, who took the reins at Campari Korea in January, said the new slogan bridges the brand’s tradition with its story. “I believe Wild Turkey’s core idea—conviction, its commitment to tradition and principle—will resonate with consumers,” he said. He added that Munz Barbecue was chosen because of the restaurant’s own uncompromising approach to cooking.

From May 1–29, brand ambassador Kim Tae-wan will lead Wild Turkey tasting classes. The sessions cover the brand’s story, production methods, and product profiles, paired with food-pairing guidance. The program is tailored for everyone from curious newcomers to devoted enthusiasts.

Interactive features—pinball, a photo booth, and a Wisdom Wall—let visitors engage directly with the brand. Limited-edition merch that channels Wild Turkey’s American vibe, including T-shirts, feather caps, and motorcycle helmets, will also be available.

Visitors can book in advance through CatchTable or drop by in person. Some menu items are available in limited quantities, and the tasting classes require prior reservation.

Photo courtesy of Campari KoreaThe food pairings kicked off with romaine salad and truffle fries, followed by the beef rib and brisket platters jointly developed by Munz Barbecue and Wild Turkey.