South Korea: A Brewing Hotspot For Coffee Lovers Pt. 2

Coffee culture in South Korea

Hello there, coffee enthusiasts! We are back with the second part to sip more through a unique coffee journey. If the first part of this coffee paradise adventure intrigued you, then you're in for a treat!


South Korea isn't just about K-pop and kimchi, my friends. This nation is also making headlines because of its cafe and coffee culture, and it's time we explore what makes it an absolute haven for caffeine lovers. So sit back and grab yourself a cup as we navigate the second part of Korea's coffee culture.

What Should You Understand About Korea's Café Culture?


The cafe scene in South Korea continually evolves, with new and innovative concepts emerging regularly. It's not just about sipping a warm cup of coffee; it's an experience that goes beyond the typical cafe scene we're familiar with. 


This distinctive coffee culture has even expanded beyond its borders, making a notable impact in other parts of the world. So, what exactly makes Korea's cafe culture so special?


Let's take a look at it, shall we?

#1 Coffee Vending Machines Everywhere

 Image Source: Danielfooddairy.com

Coffee vending machines are commonly found in public places like subway stations, bus stops, office buildings, convenience stores, and street corners. These vending machines provide diverse beverages like black coffeeAmericanocappuccinoslattes, and mochas that can be purchased either as iced or hot coffee.


Coffee vending machines are available 24/7, making it convenient for people to get their caffeine fixed anytime. Some vending machines offer features like touchscreen displays, Wi-Fi connectivity, and the ability to order and pay for coffee through a mobile app. These machines allow you to experience the perfect blend of quality, taste, and convenience. 

#2 Instant Coffee Enjoys Widespread Popularity

Image Source: desertcart

Instant coffee has taken on cultural significance in South Korea. It's a standard gift for holidays and special occasions. 


Major Korean coffee chains like Caffebene and Tom N Toms have popularized this drink by selling branded instant coffee products. They offer a wide range of flavors, including traditional black coffee and flavored options like hazelnut and vanilla. 


Creative packaging and marketing strategies have contributed to instant coffee's popularity. In addition, coffee is a staple in offices in South Korea, so employees are facilitated with coffee sachets, allowing it to be a convenient choice during work breaks because they can easily make their own coffee. Brands like Maxim and Maxim Mocha Gold are well known internationally and have become suitable to-go coffee for the busy lifestyle of people.

#3 Four Seasons Coffee

    Image Source: Starbuck Stories 

Many cafes in Korea offer seasonal menus that change with the weather. You'll find unique coffee flavors and desserts tailored to each season. Cafes like Ediya Coffee have menus that include coffees of sweet corn and sweet potato lattes to keep you warm and cozy during winter. 


Starbucks Korea keeps introducing new sippings according to the season, like Rollin Mint Choco Cold Brew, Coffee Drawing Mocha Frappuccino, and many more, which will chill down your soul with each summer sip.


They offer a wider variety of coffees in their fall menu. It's incredible how you can transition to even more delightful coffee options with each change in season. 


#4 Innovative Latte Art

  Image Source: Korea.net

In the world of South Korea's latte art, innovation knows no bounds, and coffee becomes a canvas for creativity. Korean baristas are renowned for their latte art skills. You can find lattes decorated with intricate designs, from cute characters to famous artworks, adding a layer of visual appeal to your coffee. 


Many cafes in South Korea take pride in serving not just great-tasting coffee but also visually stunning creations. Some even have signature designs that are recognized and sought after by customers. 


South Korea has a strong coffee culture, and many baristas receive extensive training in latte art. There are specialized schools and courses dedicated to perfecting the craft.

  Image Source: The Vale Magazine

#5 Coffee Subscription Services

Image Source: The Korea Herald 

Coffee subscription services are gaining popularity in Korea, allowing customers to receive fresh, artisanal coffee beans delivered to their doorstep regularly. These subscriptions allow subscribers to customize their coffee deliveries based on their taste, roast preferences, and brewing methods. 


Some subscriptions include educational resources such as brewing tips, tasting notes, and information about the coffee's origin, allowing customers to deepen their coffee knowledge. It often introduces subscribers to specialty coffee from various regions worldwide, encouraging them to explore different flavors and profiles. 


Well, speaking of subscriptions, did you know that The Daebak Company also offers subscription plans? So, if you love all things Korean, consider subscribing today!

#6 Celebrity Coffee Support Truck Services


You must have seen your favorite Hallyu stars posting pictures with their coffee truck. Was it just a random post? Actually, there's a heartfelt and touching reason behind these photos. 

Image Source: Cosmo.ph

These are the coffee trucks sent by the friends of K-celebs or their fans club as a token of love and support for their favorite stars. Fans like to make the coffee truck look special by putting pictures of their favorite celebrity and writing supportive messages. 


They also decorate the truck with banners and things that have to do with what the stardom is working on right now. As a response, those who get the food truck as a gift stand in front of it, take a picture, and share it on the internet. 


They do this to say they received the kind gift and to show they are thankful and happy about it. How sweet! An extraordinary world created by Hallyu fans, where a cup of coffee represents love, togetherness, and support.


The Future of Coffee Culture in Korea


Cafe and the coffee culture in Korea has been growing rapidly and showing no signs of slowing down. With the rise of different types of cafes, such as chainindependent, and themed coffee shops, coffee culture has become a prominent part of South Korean life. 


Recently, a famous coffee shop called Blue Bottle significantly impacted South Korea when it opened in Seoul in May 2019. They have distinguished themselves by exclusively offering specialty coffees that score 84 or higher.


Also, more and more Korean coffee makers are expanding their horizons by working abroad and gaining knowledge and experience. Some famous coffee experts like Lee Jong-hoon of Coffee Graffiti and Kim Sa-hong of Coffee Temple have improved South Korea's coffee reputation.


The future of coffee culture in Korea looks bright. It has a big chance to keep growing and coming up with new ideas. There's no doubt that Korea's coffee culture will keep exciting coffee lovers worldwide with potential for growth and innovation.




South Korea's coffee culture is a vibrant and dynamic world that has much to offer to coffee lovers everywhere. From coffee vending machines available 24/7 to the ever-changing seasonal menus and the heartwarming celebrity coffee support truck services, this awesome culture in South Korea is truly a world of its own.


Feel inspired by Korean coffee culture? Visit The Daebak Company website today to get into the wonders of Korean culture, coffee included! 

Why do Koreans love coffee so much?

In a way, coffee became a symbol of modernity. The perception of coffee and Starbucks as a lifestyle preference by numerous Koreans has elevated it to a status emblem across the country. At the same time, it provided a space for people to enjoy bonds with friends or quiet times with a cup of coffee.

Why do Koreans drink coffee after dinner?

When it comes to drinking coffee after a meal Koreans drink coffee mixes as a “dessert”. This idea of having something sweet after a meal has been adopted by western dining culture which has now changed into “mixed coffee” or “instant coffee” by South Koreans.

What is Ah-Ah in Korean?

You must have seen your K-drama stars asking for "ah-ah" in their dramas. Well, it's a slang word used for the unofficial national drink of South Korea, "Iced Americano." Generally, South Koreans use this term whenever they want to order Iced Americano in cafes.


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