A new international win strengthens Panama’s position ahead of the World Barista Championship 2026
Panama’s specialty coffee has scored another major victory on the global stage after South Korean barista Dongwhwan Ku won the 2025 South Korea Barista Championship using a Geisha coffee grown in the highlands of Boquete, Chiriquí. The award-winning beans, produced by Lamastus Family Estates, were featured during the Korea Café Show Seoul 2025, one of Asia’s most influential coffee events.
Ku’s win secures his spot at the World Barista Championship 2026, which will be held for the first time ever in Latin America – and hosted in Panama. The competition will take place from October 23 to 25, 2026, as part of World of Coffee Panama 2026 at the Panama Convention Center.
A Victory Fueled by Boquete’s Geisha
Ku’s routine centered on a Geisha variety cultivated in Boquete’s cool, volcanic highlands – known globally for producing some of the most complex and highly valued coffees in the world. The judges were impressed by the Geisha’s floral aromatics, sweetness, and layered complexity, qualities that have consistently placed Boquete on the map of elite coffee origins.
Producers and representatives from the Specialty Coffee Association of Panama (SCAP) were present at the Seoul event, promoting Panama’s high-end coffee production and inviting industry professionals to next year’s historic World of Coffee edition in Panama City.
A Milestone Year for Panama’s Coffee Industry
World of Coffee Panama 2026 will mark the first time this premier coffee expo and the World Barista Championship are held in Latin America. Organized in partnership with the Cámara de Comercio, Industrias y Agricultura de Panamá (CCIAP), the event is expected to draw top roasters, buyers, producers, and coffee specialists from Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
For Panama, this moment represents a major opportunity to showcase the country’s agricultural excellence, hospitality, and growing global influence in the specialty coffee sector.
Growing Spotlight on Boquete – And Its Wider Impact
With consistent international recognition, Boquete continues to strengthen its global reputation not only as a coffee powerhouse but also as a highly desirable place to live, retire, and invest. Each mention on the world stage adds visibility to the region’s lifestyle, climate, and culture.
While this article is not about real estate, it is worth noting the broader trend: as Boquete gains international prestige, it naturally becomes more appealing to expats, retirees, and coffee enthusiasts seeking a mountain lifestyle. This does not imply sudden spikes in prices, but a moderate, steady increase in interest is common in destinations that repeatedly appear in global headlines.
Communities like Boquete (https://www.casasolution.com/boquete/) and nearby Volcán (https://www.casasolution.com/community/volcan-chiriqui-real-estate/) are already popular among expats for their cool climate, mountain scenery, and vibrant cultural scene. Continued exposure from high-profile wins such as Ku’s only reinforces that appeal.
How This Recognition Could Influence Boquete’s Future
While large-scale real estate impacts should not be overstated, international attention tends to bring a few realistic outcomes:
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More global curiosity: Travelers and coffee professionals visiting Panama for the 2026 competitions may explore Boquete firsthand.
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Cultural and economic uplift: Tourism, gastronomy, and local businesses benefit from global attention.
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Long-term lifestyle appeal: A small but steady flow of newcomers often seeks mountain areas with strong identity and international recognition.
These factors contribute to a healthy, sustainable level of interest in Boquete and surrounding communities.
A Proud Moment for Panama
Dongwhwan Ku’s victory once again confirms Panama’s role as a global reference point in specialty coffee. As the world’s best baristas prepare to compete in Panama next year, the country stands poised to showcase its talent, hospitality, and world-class coffee to an international audience.
Casa Solution is here to help
Whether you’re exploring life in Boquete, Volcán, or other key regions of Panama, Casa Solution can guide you with expert local insight and professional support. Contact us anytime for personalized assistance.
Date Written: November 30, 2025
