Kim Yong Mun, a dedicated tea master from the Republic of Korea (ROK), has spent more than two decades promoting Chinese Pu'er tea, building bridges between the two countries with every brew.
For many, tea is just a simple drink. But for Kim, it changed everything - his health, his outlook on life, and much more.
In 2003, after traveling to over 30 countries, Kim settled in Yunnan, captivated by its stunning landscapes, hospitable communities, and, most importantly, its ancient tea trees. This region in southwest China, rich in tea culture, became his new home and source of inspiration.
Since then, he has visited major tea-growing regions, searching for high-quality raw materials and learning traditional tea-making techniques from local masters. His passion for tea eventually led him to launch his own brand. "I told myself that if I make tea, I must do it properly," said Kim.
To honor that responsibility, Kim is involved in every step of the production, applying strict standards throughout his factory. He said the key to making good tea is patience.
"For ripe Pu'er, it's the same. It takes at least 100 days [for fermentation], usually 180 days, sometimes up to two years," he said.
Kim shares his passion back in his home country, regularly hosting cultural exchange activities that showcase the richness of tea culture. Many of his compatriots have traveled to Yunnan to experience Kim's world firsthand.
"Koreans love drinking coffee compared to tea, but some of my friends fell in love into tea. So I was wondering how it is exactly. I felt that the smell and also the atmosphere of this place is amazing. I want to learn more about the tea now," said a tourist from ROK.
Kim believes that making good tea is not just a craft, it's a lifelong commitment. He aspires to use his passion to foster exchanges and understanding between the two countries that he holds dear.
"I hope the best of China and ROK can be shared, so that people can become true friends, and neighbors like family. I'll try to serve as a bridge for that connection," he said.
ROK tea maker bridges cultures through passion for Pu'er tea
