Our Story

Tim was born and raised in New York City, in a home where different cultures came together. His mother’s Korean roots were a big part of everyday life — especially around the table. From shared meals to drinks, he saw how food and drink brought people closer, and how much joy could be found in those small moments.

After moving to Belgium to support his wife’s PhD journey, Tim found himself missing not just the taste of makgeolli, but the feeling behind it. Inspired by Belgium’s beer culture and its appreciation for craft, he began learning to brew — first training with a master and then experimenting at home. Through BABO, he hopes to share that sense of connection, comfort, and curiosity with others — one bottle at a time.

Yeasle, born in Korea and raised across New Zealand and the U.S., is a doctor of psychology with research expertise in how culture shapes emotions. She spent years studying how people experience emotions across cultural contexts and she’s always believed that food and drink are among the most powerful ways we connect. With BABO, she brings together her love for storytelling, thoughtful design, and cross-cultural connection, helping shape a brand that feels both personal and welcoming.

Together, Tim and Yeasle started BABO to share a drink that feels like home — crafted slowly, with care, and meant to be shared. They’re starting in Belgium, but their hope is to reach people everywhere who are curious, open, and ready to raise a glass.

  • Tim holding up a bottle of Babo Makgeolli and looking at it, with a glass of makgeolli placed in front.
  • Tim and Yeasle sitting on stairs outside with Babo Makgeolli placed between them.
  • Tim standing by brewing equipment wearing brewing outfit in the brewery.
  • Tim standing behind the bar with a bottle of Babo Makgeolli on display.
  • Tim filtering makgeolli during the brewing process.