Korean agri-food startup NEWROOK, which manufactures the makgeolli-based low-alcohol hard seltzer brand SWRL, has secured seed investment from CNT Tech.

NEWROOK has developed a unique product that merges traditional Korean makgeolli fermentation techniques with the contemporary hard seltzer category, aiming squarely at the U.S. market. Under the brand SWRL, the company offers a hard seltzer brewed from makgeolli, characterized by its low alcohol content of 3.7%, low calorie count at 89 kcal, and zero sugar. Designed to align with the wellness trends favored by Millennials and Gen Z consumers in the U.S., SWRL distinguishes itself through naturally occurring carbonation from fermentation and the preserved flavors of grains, setting it apart from conventional hard seltzers.

NEWROOK has already filed trademark applications for SWRL in both the United States and Canada and is set to officially launch the brand in New York starting in June.

A CNT Tech representative stated, “NEWROOK offers a distinctive K-hard seltzer brand that leverages makgeolli fermentation technology to directly address the health-conscious global alcoholic beverage trends. This investment serves not just as financial backing but also as a strategic foundation for rapid market entry and securing follow-on investments in the U.S.”

NEWROOK CEO Kim In-ji commented, “We are honored to reinterpret the value of traditional fermented makgeolli in a modern context and introduce it on the global stage. With this investment, we aim to successfully launch our product in the U.S. market and pioneer new opportunities for K-alcohol worldwide.”