SCOTCH whisky is now legally protected in South Korea after the country granted the drink intellectual property rights.
The Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) successfully applied to register "Scotch Whisky" as a certification trademark, having already gained the status in more than 100 markets worldwide.
The certification means the industry will be protected in the East Asian nation which is currently dealt with through the EU-South Korean free trade agreement.
British Ambassador to South Korea, Simon Smith, said: "Scotland's national drink has long enjoyed widespread popularity in South Korea.
"This enhanced legal protection will give consumers continued assurance that the Scotch whisky they buy is the genuine article."
READ MORE: Scotch whisky sector celebrates record-breaking year for exports
Lindesay Low, SWA legal deputy director, said: "The industry takes the legal protection of Scotch whisky very seriously.
"Only through robust and consistent action can consumers be assured that the Scotch whisky they enjoy is the genuine article each and every time.
"By securing a certification trademark in South Korea, the SWA has ensured continued legal protection for Scotch whisky post-Brexit.
"This is just the latest legal success which shows the SWA will continue to set up legal frameworks that enable us to take action to stop the sale of fake and counterfeit products that unfairly take advantage of the quality and reputation of Scotch whisky."
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