BTS member Jin is teaming up with Baek Jong-won, the renowned culinary researcher and CEO of The Born Korea, to launch a new alcohol business. Jin becomes the first BTS member to embark on an entrepreneurial journey outside of music.

According to industry sources on December 11, Jin and Baek jointly invested to establish the agricultural corporation Yesan Doga, which will introduce its distilled spirit, "IGIN," later this month. "IGIN" is a traditional liquor that incorporates the unique characteristics of Baek's hometown, Yesan, Chungcheongnam-do.

In addition to the distilled version, "IGIN" will also be available in Ready-to-Drink (RTD) formats featuring local fruits such as Yesan apples, watermelon, and plums. These variations will be marketed under the names "IGIN Sweet Tonic" and "IGIN Sour Tonic."

To bring this venture to life, Jin and Baek founded the agricultural corporation "Jinny's Lamp" in December 2022, headquartered in Yesan. The name "Jinny's Lamp" was previously mentioned by Jin as a name he wished to use for his workspace in fan interactions.

Jinny's Lamp will handle the production of "IGIN," while Yesan Doga, a subsidiary of The Born Korea established for alcohol distribution, will oversee its distribution. Yesan Doga is led by Byun Joon-ho, a former executive from The Born Korea. Additionally, Park Rok-dam, a master of traditional Korean liquors known as the "Godfather of Korean Traditional Alcohol," is serving as an auditor for the company. Ahead of the launch, Yesan Doga has reportedly begun recruiting managers for specialized liquor stores.

Jin's venture into the alcohol industry is drawing significant attention, as it represents a collaboration between a global superstar who helped BTS achieve Korea's first Billboard Hot 100 #1 and a culinary legend, Baek Jong-won.

Jin's interest in traditional Korean liquor has been well-documented. In 2022, the BTS YouTube channel BANGTANTV aired an episode titled "Drunken Truth," featuring Jin, Baek Jong-won, and master brewer Park Rok-dam tasting and promoting traditional Korean liquors. Jin has also previously gifted his own homemade alcohol to fellow BTS member J-Hope, celebrity chef Lee Yeon-bok, and actor Park Seo-ham, showcasing his passion for alcohol crafting.

However, a representative from Yesan Doga stated, "We are unable to confirm any details regarding this matter."