Sajo Haepyo

Sajo Haepyo is a leading food brand from South Korea with a wide range of products, including Gochujang (Korean chili paste), Doenjang (Korean soybean paste), Ssamjang (seasoned soybean paste), corn syrup, seaweed, and other ingredients essential for Korean cooking. Sajo Haepyo is not just an ordinary food brand; it has a long and rich history, having been a part of Korean households for over 50 years. This article will introduce you to the brand's journey to success.

The Beginning with Soybean Oil in the Post-War Era

The story of Sajo Haepyo began with a company called Dongbang Oil, founded in 1966. It started by producing soybean oil to meet the needs of the public during a period when Korea was recovering from the war. In 1971, the company built the first large-scale, modern soybean processing factory in South Korea and officially launched the brand Haepyo. The name means "sunlight," reflecting the brand's vision of bringing brightness, warmth, and abundance to households.

The first product from the Haepyo brand was soybean oil, which quickly gained consumer trust, especially among homemakers who prioritized cooking ingredients. Following the success of soybean oil, the company expanded its product line to include cooking oils, traditional Korean sauces, and other processed food products. In 1987, it also entered the seaweed business with the launch of Haepyo Seaweed to diversify its offerings and expand its business into processed seafood.

The Significant Merger: Sajo + Haepyo

In the early 21st century, the South Korean food industry faced a major transformation with increased competition and more diverse consumer demands. In 2004, the company became part of the Sajo Group, a key turning point that helped strengthen and expand its operations.

The Sajo Group has a long history itself, starting as a tuna fishing company in 1971 and growing to become a global leader in fisheries. Joining this group allowed the company to access a wider production and distribution network.

In March 2008, the company changed its name to Sajo Haepyo. This name change was more than just a marketing move; it reflected the complete integration of the Haepyo brand and the Sajo Group. This merger allowed the company to offer a more diverse range of products and services, from seafood and processed foods to meat products and traditional seasonings.

Quality and Continuous Growth

Sajo Haepyo places great emphasis on quality and production standards, especially in its seasoning products. The brands soy sauce is produced using a natural fermentation method, where defatted soybeans and wheat are fermented for six months, resulting in a unique and well-rounded flavor.

Currently, Sajo Haepyo has a wide range of businesses, with four main sectors: seafood products, processed foods, meat products, and seasonings. This expansion not only led to business growth but also reinforced the image of Sajo Haepyo as a household brand that truly understands consumer needs and is ready to offer products that make cooking easier and more delicious.