This study was conducted to analyze New Zealand’s beekeeping industry and Manuka honey grading system to suggest characteristics and development plans for Korea’s honey grading system. Manuka honey in New Zealand is harvested from the Manuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium). It is known for its various bioactive properties, including antimicrobial activity and antioxidants. Since 2017, the New Zealand government has been implementing national certification and grading for all exported Manuka honey. For this purpose, compositions of Manuka honey across New Zealand have been investigated and four chemical indicators and one biological indicator have been established. Currently, Korea has been fully implementing a honey grading system since September 2023, which divides honey (acacia honey, chestnut honey, and miscellaneous honey) into 1+ grade, 1 grade, and 2 grade according to Enforcement Rules of the Livestock Act. The following seven indicators are used: carbon isotope consumption, moisture content, sugar ratio, hydroxytmethylfurfural, flavor, chromaticity, and defects, similar to Codex standards or European standards. However, details are modified to suit Korean conditions. To make the Korean honey grading system more stable, it is necessary to develop and introduce different indicators for honey functionality and honey grading system maturity. In addition, it is necessary to expand the participation of farmers in the honey grading system, secure consumer trust in the honey grading system, and continue to promote it.