15 Snacks and Drinks You Must Try In Korean Convenience Stores!
Are you planning a trip to Korea? Well, get ready to be best friends with Korean convenience stores!
Korean convenience stores are not your average pit stops – they’re practically a traveler’s haven.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the must-try snacks and drinks in Korean convenience stores.
Let’s embark on a journey to discover the best snacks you can try in Korean convenience stores!
Table of Contents
Best Korean Convenience Stores Snacks and Drinks
Embrace yourself as we dive deeper into my list of the most delicious snacks and drinks you can try in Korean Convenience Stores, the most visited chain stores in Korea!
1. Instant Ramyun
In Korea, instant ramyun is practically a national treasure.
If you’re a newbie to this ramyun fiesta, we’ve got a golden recommendation for you – the classic Shin Ramyun. Trust me; it’s a big deal in Korea for a reason. The flavor? Oh, it’s like a party in your mouth.
Now, if you don’t like that flavors, hold on!
Korea takes instant ramyun game seriously, offering a smorgasbord of flavors.
From the treasures of the sea to hearty beef, succulent pork, and mind-blowing ramyun-pasta combos like carbonara and spaghetti – your taste buds are in for a wild ride.
Just step into any Korean convenience store, and you’ll be staring at a ramyun rainbow.
2. Triangle Gimbap
Imagine Gimbap as the Korean answer to sushi, but with its own unique twist.
Now, why is this little guy a favorite among office workers?
Well, it’s like a mini feast that’s convenient, hearty, and oh-so-delicious.
You’ll find classic gimbap rolls in many convenience stores, but here’s the pro tip – go for the triangle gimbap.
It’s not just a snack; it’s a handy, tasty adventure waiting for you.
So, make sure you give the triangle gimbap a shot as you visit Korean convenience stores.
3. Dosirak
Think of dosirak as those awesome lunchboxes your mom or wife would whip up for a hard-working relative in an office.
They’re not just any lunchboxes; they’re a flavor-packed experience tailored to your liking.
Now, what’s inside a dosirak, you ask? Generous serving of rice, a mouthwatering meat dish taking the lead role, and a squad of different banchan or side dishes – think kimchi, jeon, sliced egg rolls, and more.
It’s not just a meal; it’s a whole feast neatly packaged just for you.
So, when you’re in the mood for a complete and delicious experience, grab a dosirak, and let the flavor party begin!
4. Pepero
The next recommended snacks is the superstar of snacks – Pepero!
This treat is not just a snack; it’s a whole day celebration kind of snack.
I mean, there’s an entire day dedicated to exchanging Peperos. called Pepero day.
So, if you haven’t had the pleasure of indulging in Pepero goodness, consider this your official invitation to the Pepero party.
Trust me, it’s a snacking experience worth celebrating!
5. Dalgona Snacks
Ever heard of dalgona coffee?
Yeah, that internet sensation wasn’t just a trendy sip; it’s actually a blast from the past.
Back in the 90s and 2000s, Korean kids were munching on dalgona as an after-school snack, and it’s like a nostalgia bomb for the locals.
Now, here’s where it gets interesting – after the whole Squid Games hype and homemade dalgona coffee craze, convenience stores and supermarkets jumped on the bandwagon.
They launched their own dalgona snack lines, bringing that sweet, nostalgic taste to the modern snack scene.
So, if you’re all about embracing the past while enjoying a trendy treat, dalgona snacks are your go-to munchies!
6. Saeukkang
This Shrimp Cracker (Saeukkang) is a snack that’s been a Korean favorite since 1971, thanks to the snack wizards at Nongshim.
Now, the name Saeukkang came from Korean word “Saeu,” which means shrimp.
And get this, Saeukkang was a trailblazer in South Korea, being the first snack of its kind.
Here’s the cool part – when this crunchy delight hit the scene, it wasn’t just a snack; it was a sensation.
The sales skyrocketed, giving Nongshim a whopping 350% increase in just three months.
I mean, that’s snack history in the making!
7. GamTae Seaweed
Since the pandemic, people are all about those good-for-you options, and guess what’s making waves in the snack scene?
GamTae – a seaweed snack that’s like a breath of fresh sea air in the world of munchies.
It’s like a seaside escape in every bite. And the texture? Soft and delightful.
If you’re up for a snack adventure with a touch of healthiness, give GamTae a shot!
8. Kimchi Energy Drink
If you’re diving into the world of Kimchi Energy for the first time, get ready to be pleasantly surprised.
Now, here’s the deal – this drink might throw you a curveball.
It’s not your typical kimchi flavor; no, it’s more like sipping on strawberry champagne.
But hold on, there’s a twist – that cooling kick of kimchi comes in, giving you a burst of energy.
So, if you’re up for a unique taste experience, give Kimchi Energy a shot. Your taste buds will thank you!
9. Pouch Drinks
The trendsetter – Pouch drinks, is making waves after TikTok sensation!
Here’s the drill – snag a cup of ice from the freezer, and now comes the fun part.
Choose from a lineup of pouch drinks in flavors that range from juicy goodness to the kick of coffee and the creamy delight of yogurt. They’ve got it all covered.
Now, the magic happens when you open that pouch, pour it over your cup of ice, and voila – instant refreshment!
Oh, and here’s a tip – mix and match those drinks for a flavor fiesta.
10. MongShell
The classic must-try, the talk-of-the-town – MongShell!
Now imagine: sweetness on the outside, a heavenly fresh cream center creating a taste balance that’s simply mind-blowing.
Here’s the catch – it’s so darn delicious that you might not even notice you’ve breezed through seven packets! That’s right, it’s that good.
So, if you’re up for an indulgence that hits all the right notes, MongShell is a must-try.
Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
11. Alcohol
If you’re on the lookout for something more on the adult side, Korean convenience stores have got your back!
The shelves are stocked with a variety of alcoholic delights, forming what’s known as the “Big 3” – maekju (beer), soju, and makgeolli.
Soju, a timeless Korean classic, takes the lead.
This rice liquor is a crowd-pleaser, enjoyed at gatherings ranging from young professionals to the seasoned oldies. You name it, it’s a staple!
For those who like a twist, soju comes in flavors like strawberry, green grape, blueberry, and even yakult.
But let’s not forget, most Koreans savor it in its classic form.
Now, onto makgeolli, a cloudy rice wine with a touch of sweetness and sour hints.
With an alcohol content hovering around 6-9%, makgeolli is the perfect companion for traditional Korean dishes like stews and pancakes (jeon).
So, whether you’re a soju traditionalist or a makgeolli enthusiast, Korean convenience stores have the adult beverages covered! Cheers to variety!
12. Milk
Milk is not just for the kiddos.
With Korea’s expansive selection of various milk flavors, there’s a pick for every palate.
There are strawberry milk, banana milk, coffee milk, chocolate milk, red bean milk, and the list goes on.
Try it especially if you want a quick sip that can give you energy for the day
13. Cheese Fish Candy
The infamous cheese fish candy, also known by the name “Camembert cheese and fish snack“, might not win any culinary awards, but surprise, surprise – it’s more delightful than it sounds!
Imagine a string-cheese-like treat that’s oddly satisfying.
Forget overpowering fishiness; it’s more about the cheesy goodness.
It’s a unique twist that adds a protein boost to your snack game.
Perfect for kids, the selective eaters, or just anyone up for an unexpectedly tasty experience!
14. Peel Sausage
These bite-sized wonders are a ubiquitous find, neatly packed and ready to devour – an ideal on-the-go snack.
The variety of Sausage flavors, from cheese-infused to spicy, caters to diverse taste buds.
While many locals, especially the younger crowd, enjoy them as standalone snacks, here’s a pro tip: elevate your instant ramyun game by slicing and adding these sausages.
It’s a simple hack to turn your quick meal into a more satisfying and flavorful experience.
15. Coffee and Tea
Coffee game in Korea is strong, offering an alternative to the plethora of cafes.
Barista Rules takes the lead, presenting an array of canned coffee options, ranging from cold brew to mocha and lattes, with varying levels of sweetness.
And if you find yourself battling a post-soju hangover, reach for 헛개차 (heot gae-cha; hovenia dulcis tea).
Despite its bitter taste, this tea is renowned as a hangover remedy across Japan, China, and Korea.
Conclusion
Korean convenience stores are a class apart, offering convenience, affordability, and a delightful array of delicious snacks and drinks.
Whether you’re a foodie, a curious traveler, or just someone looking for a quick bite and sip, these stores have something for everyone.
So, what are you most excited to try on your visit to a Korean convenience store?
Let me know in the comment sections below!
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