Korean Barista Wins Second China Fushan Coffee Cup

On the afternoon of June 10, 2013, the second edition of the China Fushan Coffee Cup International Barista Championship wrapped up in Fushan Coffee Culture Town, Chengmai County, Hainan. The two-day showdown saw 24 national champion baristas from around the globe compete in one of China’s most ambitious coffee events to date—crowned by a surprise Korean victory.

Kin Jim Kyu, representing South Korea, won the championship. China’s He Hongchao claimed second place, and Taiwan’s Jian Jiacheng took third. The awards were presented by Yang Sitao, Secretary of the Chengmai County Committee.

What Was the China Fushan Coffee Cup?

The China Fushan Coffee Cup International Barista Championship is a flagship event under the Yingbin Longshui Festival. Organized by the CPC Chengmai County Committee and Chengmai County People’s Government, and hosted by Fushan Coffee United Company, with support from Fushan Coffee Town Management Committee and the Hainan Coffee Industry Association, the competition aimed to showcase Fushan coffee culture to a high-level international barista audience.

Who Competed in the 2013 Championship?

This edition brought together 24 national champion baristas—more countries and higher-level contestants than the previous year. Competitors came from the United States, Colombia, Uganda, Ecuador, Australia, South Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Singapore, as well as mainland China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. The elite field turned Fushan into a global stage for elite coffee skills.

How Was the Competition Judged?

The judging panel included internationally accredited judges from Colombia, Indonesia, and Korea. The event adhered strictly to international standards and maintained fairness, openness, and impartiality throughout. The presence of expert judges ensured competitors were evaluated on skill, presentation, and beverage quality—core metrics in professional barista competitions.

Why Did the Global Coffee Industry Take Notice?

The 2013 Fushan Coffee Cup drew attention from major coffee-producing nations. The Ugandan and Ecuadorian consuls general in Guangzhou both attended to support their countries’ baristas. Over a hundred guests from national and regional coffee associations and leading coffee companies also witnessed the event, observing world-class techniques and innovation in espresso preparation, milk techniques, and signature drinks.

What Are the Goals of the Fushan Coffee Cup?

According to Chengmai County Governor Ji Zhaomin, the competition serves multiple roles. It is a platform to promote Fushan coffee globally, highlight the unique culture of Fushan Coffee Town, and let international baristas experience the heritage behind Fushan beans. The event is also intended to boost the local coffee industry, support Hainan’s development as an international tourism destination, and establish Fushan coffee as a globally recognized specialty origin—comparable to renowned producing regions worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which country won the 2013 China Fushan Coffee Cup?

South Korea won the championship in 2013. Barista Kin Jim Kyu secured first place, beating competitors from 23 other nations. He was awarded for his performance during the two-day international barista competition held in Fushan, Hainan.

Who came in second and third place?

China’s He Hongchao took second place, and Taiwan’s Jian Jiacheng earned third. All three finalists were national champions in their respective regions, highlighting the high caliber of the competition field.

Where was the 2013 Fushan Coffee Cup held?

The event took place in Fushan Coffee Culture Town, part of Chengmai County, Hainan Province. The town is known for promoting Fushan coffee and hosts this championship as part of its annual Yingbin Longshui Festival.

How many international baristas competed?

Twenty-four national champion baristas from countries including the United States, Colombia, Uganda, Ecuador, Australia, South Korea, Thailand, and various parts of Asia and Oceania participated. This made it the most internationally diverse edition since the competition began.

What role did judges play in the competition?

Judges from Colombia, Indonesia, and Korea evaluated the competitors based on standardized international criteria. They ensured fairness and transparency in scoring the technical and creative aspects of each barista’s routine.

What are the goals of hosting this competition in Fushan?

The competition aims to elevate Fushan coffee’s global profile, promote local coffee culture, attract international attention to Hainan’s coffee industry, and support tourism development. It also seeks to preserve and innovate upon Fushan’s coffee heritage.

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