Takeout, Home Café, and Specialty Brews: Coffee Trends in Korea

Korea is not just a country that drinks coffee—it embraces coffee culture as a lifestyle. In the morning commute, people often carry a cup of coffee, and meeting friends naturally involves visiting a café. Even for studying or working, many people prefer using cafés as their workspace. So how did Koreans' love for coffee begin, and what unique characteristics does it have?

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1. History of Coffee Culture in Korea

The widespread popularity of coffee in Korea dates back to the early 20th century. It is believed that Emperor Gojong first experienced coffee at the Russian Legation in the early 1900s, marking the beginning of Korea's coffee culture. Later, in the 1970s and 1980s, the rise of dabang (traditional coffeehouses) made coffee a central part of social activities. Dabang culture was not just about drinking coffee; it was a place for romance, business meetings, and artists' gatherings. In the 1990s, international franchise brands entered the Korean market, rapidly advancing the coffee industry. Starbucks' arrival in Korea played a crucial role in the explosion of café culture, leading to the rise of numerous local brands competing in the market.

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2. Various Coffee Consumption Styles

Koreans consume coffee in a variety of ways.

1) Takeout Coffee

Takeout coffee is essential for busy commuters and students. With the expansion of franchise cafés, people can easily grab a cup of coffee on the go. Many office workers consume at least one cup of takeout coffee daily, and some companies even provide coffee coupons as employee benefits.

2) Café Culture

Korea is one of the leading countries in café culture. Many cafés go beyond simply serving coffee; they focus on providing a unique atmosphere and experience. From aesthetically pleasing Instagram-worthy cafés to quiet book cafés and pet-friendly cafés, there is a wide variety of themes available. Additionally, co-working space cafés are becoming popular, serving as both relaxation and workspaces.

3) Convenience Store Coffee

Affordable and convenient, convenience store coffee is also gaining popularity. Priced at 1,000 to 2,000 KRW, convenience store coffee is a favorite among students and office workers. As the quality of convenience store coffee improves, some brands now offer premium options using high-quality beans.

4) Home Café Trend

Recently, the home café trend has gained traction as more people brew their own coffee at home. From drip coffee to espresso machines and capsule coffee, many enjoy high-quality coffee without leaving their homes. Social media is filled with home café recipes and equipment recommendations, and some enthusiasts even roast their own beans to create a personalized coffee experience.

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3. Coffee Trends Created by Koreans' Love for Coffee

1) The Popularity of Americano

Americano is the most beloved coffee in Korea. Made by adding water to a shot of espresso, Americano is favored for its rich flavor and affordability. Koreans enjoy the deep taste of coffee while appreciating its budget-friendly nature.

2) The Rise of Specialty Coffee

Recently, coffee culture in Korea has evolved beyond simple caffeine consumption to appreciating the quality and flavor of coffee beans. Specialty coffee culture is growing as more people seek single-origin beans with distinct flavors. Specialty coffee shops often have skilled baristas who recommend personalized brewing methods, allowing customers to experience coffee in a more refined way.

3) The Combination of Coffee and Desserts

Pairing coffee with desserts is an essential part of Korean coffee culture. Macarons, croissants, tiramisu, and other sweets are frequently enjoyed alongside coffee. Many cafés now specialize in offering signature desserts that complement their coffee selections, enhancing the overall experience.

4) 24-Hour Cafés and Study Cafés

As the trend of late-night café visits grows, 24-hour cafés and study cafés are becoming more common. Students and office workers use these spaces to study or work while enjoying coffee. Many cafés provide Wi-Fi and charging stations, and some maintain a library-like quiet atmosphere to promote focus and productivity.

5) Coffee Subscription Services

Recently, coffee subscription services, which offer regular coffee deliveries or discounts on café purchases, have gained popularity. These services provide convenience for busy individuals and allow coffee lovers to explore new flavors regularly.

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Conclusion

Koreans’ love for coffee has evolved beyond a mere preference into a fully developed culture. As trends continue to change rapidly, coffee remains an essential part of daily life in Korea, constantly adapting and evolving. Coffee is no longer just a beverage—it has become a significant and deeply integrated aspect of Korean life.