Introduction
Korea is a country known for its distinct culture, and one of the ways that culture is expressed is through food and drinks. Korea has a rich variety of beverages that are unique to the country, ranging from traditional teas to modern coffee shops. This article will explore the different kinds of drinks you can find in Korea and what makes them special.
Traditional Korean Beverages
Korea has a long history of making traditional teas and drinks. One of the most famous is called “sujunggwa,” a sweet and spicy drink made from dried persimmons, ginger, cinnamon, and sugar. Another popular beverage is “insam-cha,” a tea made from ginseng root. It is believed to have many health benefits, including boosting energy and reducing stress.
Alcoholic Beverages
Koreans love their alcohol, and they have several unique alcoholic beverages that are worth trying. One of the most famous is “soju,” a clear distilled liquor made from rice or wheat. It has a high alcohol content but is usually mixed with other beverages like beer or soda. Another popular alcoholic drink is “makgeolli,” a fermented rice wine that has a slightly sweet taste and a low alcohol content.
Coffee Shops
Korea has seen a recent boom in coffee culture, and there are now countless coffee shops all over the country. These coffee shops offer everything from traditional drip coffee to specialty drinks like “dalgona coffee,” which became popular worldwide during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of these coffee shops also offer unique desserts and snacks.
Bubble Tea
Bubble tea, also known as boba tea, has become increasingly popular in Korea in recent years. This Taiwanese drink consists of tea mixed with fruit flavoring or milk and tapioca balls or fruit jelly. It’s a fun and refreshing drink that’s perfect for a hot summer day.
Soft Drinks
Korea has its own unique soft drinks that you won’t find anywhere else. One of the most popular is “Chilsung Cider,” a lemon-lime soda that has been around for over 60 years. Another popular soft drink is “Pat Bing Soo,” a sweet red bean and shaved ice dessert that can be served with milk or fruit juice.
Fruit Juices
Korea is known for its fresh and delicious fruits, and many of these fruits are used to make juices. Some of the most popular fruit juices in Korea include grapefruit juice, watermelon juice, and persimmon juice. These juices are usually sold in small bottles or cartons at convenience stores or street vendors.
Sports Drinks
Sports drinks like Gatorade and Powerade are popular all over the world, but Korea has its own unique version called “Pocari Sweat.” This isotonic drink is designed to replenish electrolytes lost during exercise or hot weather. It’s a refreshing drink that’s perfect for staying hydrated on a hot summer day.
Green Tea
Green tea is a beloved beverage in Korea, and there are many different types to try. One of the most famous is “jeoncha,” which is made from young tea leaves picked in the spring. It has a light and refreshing taste and is often enjoyed with traditional Korean sweets like rice cakes.
Milk
Milk may not seem like a unique beverage, but Korea has its own special version called “yakult.” Yakult is a probiotic milk drink that contains live bacteria cultures that are good for digestion. It’s a popular drink among both adults and children.
Canned Coffee
Canned coffee is a popular beverage in Korea, and you can find it in vending machines and convenience stores all over the country. It’s a convenient and inexpensive way to get your caffeine fix on the go.
Conclusion
Korea has a rich variety of beverages that are unique to the country. From traditional teas to modern coffee shops, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing drink on a hot summer day or something to warm you up in the winter, Korea has got you covered. So next time you’re in Korea, be sure to try some of these delicious and unique drinks!
What is Korea’s most popular drink?
Soju is the most well-known alcoholic beverage in Korea and is considered the country’s official national liquor, as evidenced by its presence in almost every eating and drinking establishment.
What kind of alcohol do Koreans drink?
Soju is a well-known alcoholic drink in Korea and is closely linked to the country’s drinking culture. It is clear and distilled from a variety of starches such as wheat, rice, barley, and sweet potato. While similar to vodka and shochu, it is uniquely Korean.
What kind of alcohol is soju?
Soju is a popular distilled spirit in Korea that is clear and has low alcohol content. It is actually the most popular liquor in Korea and is considered the top-selling liquor worldwide, according to CNN’s report on February 8, 2018. If you are not familiar with it, you might have missed out on a widely loved drink.
What is the national drink of Korea?
Soju is a popular alcoholic beverage in Korea and is the top-selling liquor in the world in terms of volume. Its sales have been steadily increasing and it is becoming more recognized in the United States.
Is soju hard liquor?
Soju typically has an alcohol content of around 20%, which is in between that of hard liquor and wine. It can sometimes catch you off guard as you drink it.
Is it true that Koreans drink a lot?
Drinking has become an integral part of socializing in modern Korea, regardless of the situation. Many Koreans view drinking as a crucial aspect of social life, whether it is to celebrate, unwind, or cope with stress. It is common for Koreans to drink to the point of intoxication.
Herbal Medicinal Drinks
In addition to traditional teas and drinks, Korea also has a variety of herbal medicinal drinks that are believed to have healing properties. One of the most popular is “yulmu-cha,” a tea made from roasted Job’s tears. It’s believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and is often consumed to relieve indigestion and constipation. Another popular drink is “omija-cha,” a tea made from dried magnolia berries that is believed to boost the immune system and improve liver function.
Flower Tea
Korea is known for its beautiful flowers, and many of these flowers are used to make tea. One of the most popular flower teas is “hwangchae,” a tea made from chrysanthemum flowers. It has a light and refreshing taste and is often consumed during the summer months to cool the body down. Another popular flower tea is “gomchui-cha,” a tea made from dried cornflowers. It has a slightly sweet taste and is believed to have calming properties.
Fermented Beverages
Fermentation is a big part of Korean cuisine, and there are several fermented beverages that are unique to the country. One of the most famous is “dongdongju,” a cloudy rice wine that is fermented in earthenware pots. It has a slightly sweet taste and is often paired with spicy Korean food. Another popular fermented beverage is “cheongju,” a clear rice wine that is similar to sake. It has a higher alcohol content than dongdongju but is still relatively mild.
Iced Tea
During the hot summer months, iced tea is a popular beverage in Korea. One of the most popular types is “boricha,” a barley tea that has a nutty flavor and is often consumed cold. Another popular iced tea is “yeoncha,” a lotus leaf tea that has a refreshing taste and is believed to have detoxifying properties.
Smoothies
Smoothies have become increasingly popular in Korea, and there are several unique flavors to try. One popular smoothie is the “avocado smoothie,” which is made from fresh avocados, milk, and honey. It has a creamy texture and is often consumed as a healthy breakfast or snack. Another popular smoothie is the “banana milk smoothie,” which is made from fresh bananas and milk. It has a sweet and creamy taste and is often served as a dessert.