When foreign visitors arrive in South Korea, one of the things that surprises them most is the abundance of cafes on every corner and seeing people holding iced coffee even in the dead of winter. Deeply woven into daily life, going to a cafe after meals or when meeting friends and couples has become an essential routine for Koreans.
1. Iced Americano
For Koreans, coffee—especially an 'Iced Americano' (known as Ah-Ah)—is much more than just a drink; it is practically a 'magic potion that wakes you up and gets you through the day.'
- Office Workers' Routine: Having a cup on the morning commute and another right after lunch to fight off the afternoon slump is a typical daily routine for Korean office workers.
- The "Eol-Juk-Ah" Culture: Even during freezing winter cold snaps, you will frequently see people holding icy drinks, proudly declaring "Eol-juk-ah" (short for "even if I freeze to death, I'll drink iced Americano").
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2. A Diverse Cafe World to Suit Every Taste 🌿🏠
Cafes in Korea are not just places that sell coffee; they are unique spaces with distinct concepts.
- From Chains to Independent Cafes: From major franchises like Starbucks and Mega Coffee to cozy independent cafes, dessert-focused spots, and bakery cafes, you'll find them tucked away in every alley.
- Unique Concepts: The options are truly endless depending on your mood—from traditional Hanok cafes filled with vintage charm, rooftop cafes overlooking the cityscape, lush plant-filled cafes, to cute pet cafes where you can spend time with animals.
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3. Takeout vs. Spaces to Relax 🛍️🛋️
Korean cafes can largely be divided into two types based on their purpose:
- Takeout-focused Cafes:
Affordable and quick options for office workers on their way to work or during lunch breaks. Iced Americanos are by far the most popular item here, prioritizing value and efficiency.
- Space-focused Cafes for Relaxing:
Places designed for lingering and enjoying the ambiance at a leisure pace:
- Bakery-focused: Places that highlight fresh-baked pastries and artisanal desserts.
- Coffee-focused: Places where professional baristas serve specialty beans and hand-drip coffees.
- Interior/Space-focused (Instagrammable!): Places designed around aesthetic lighting, stylish furniture, colorful drinks, and beautiful dessert plating. Simply finding an "aesthetic cafe for pictures" becomes a destination in itself.
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➕ Centers of Dessert Trends!
Most dessert crazes in Korea begin and spread through cafes. Bakery cafes, in particular, quickly catch onto social media trends, constantly introducing hot new desserts like salt bread and croffles.
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4. Smart Ordering Methods & Tips! 📱🤖
Ordering at Korean cafes is also rapidly digitalizing.
- Smart Ordering: Kiosks, table QR code ordering, and brand mobile apps (like Siren Order) are widespread, making it common practice to order ahead via an app on the morning commute and quickly pick it up.
💡 Tip for Popular Cafes: Famous cafes often run out of seats. Instead of placing your order right away, securing a seat first before heading to order is the golden rule for a smooth visit!
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5. Wi-Fi, Power Outlets, and 'Cafe Study' Etiquette 💻🔌
One of the biggest advantages of Korean cafes is their incredible convenience.
- Free Wi-Fi & Outlets: Almost all cafes provide free Wi-Fi, and if there are power outlets, you can freely charge your phone or laptop while enjoying your time.
- Outlet Etiquette: However, in small or quiet independent cafes, staying over 4 hours while charging devices on just one drink order might draw subtle glances. If you plan to stay long, ordering an extra drink or dessert is a nice touch of etiquette!
Bapsim is Here for Your Journey in Korea
This weekend, how about spending a relaxing time with a warm cup of coffee at a lovely cafe that catches your eye? We sincerely hope every day of your stay in Korea is filled with warm, pleasant memories—just like the rich aroma of coffee! ☕✨