10 Best Local Drinks To Try On Your South Korea Tour

OT Staff

Ground Grains (미숫가루 | misutgaru)

Misutgaru is a nutritious drink made from a blend of grains and nuts, such as roasted rice, barley, soybeans, and sesame seeds. It can be found in cafes or made at home by mixing the powdered blend with water or milk.

Traditional Ground Grains from Korea | Shutterstock

Banana Milk (바나나맛 우유 | bananamat uyu)

Banana milk is a popular Korean drink that combines milk with the sweet flavour of ripe bananas. It's available in convenience stores and supermarkets, often in cute banana-shaped packaging.

Korean Banana Milk | Shutterstock

Sikhye (식혜)

Sikhye is a traditional rice-based sweet drink made by fermenting rice with malt and sweetening it. The result is a mildly sweet, slightly effervescent beverage with a touch of cinnamon. Sikhye is often served during festive occasions, weddings, and celebrations.

A serving of Sikhye | Shutterstock

Coffee Milk (커피 우유 | keopiuyu)

Coffee milk is a delightful fusion of coffee and milk. It's perfect for those who enjoy a milder coffee flavour. Imagine a creamy latte with a Korean twist! Cafes and convenience stores across South Korea offer this comforting drink.

Traditional Coffee Milk of Korea | Shutterstock

Milkis (밀키스)

Milkis is a unique carbonated soft drink that combines milk and soda. It’s creamy, fizzy, and surprisingly refreshing. Flavours range from classic to strawberry and melon. Try sipping Milkis on a warm day—like a creamy soda party in your mouth!

A shot of the Korean drink, Milkis | Wikimedia Commons

Omija Tea (오미자차 | omijacha)

Omija tea is made by brewing dried magnolia berries. It is known for its delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess, which makes it a popular choice. Some people believe it has antioxidant properties. Omija tea boosts energy, improves skin health, and aids digestion.

Omija Tea & Yuzu Tea served on a bowl | Shutterstock

Chrysanthemum Tea (국화차 | gukwacha)

Made from chrysanthemum flowers, this caffeine-free herbal tea is wonderfully soothing with a delicate floral flavour, often enjoyed hot. It's perfect for unwinding after a busy day of sightseeing.

Traditional Chrysanthemum Tea | Shutterstock

Bacchus (박카스)

Bacchus is a popular energy drink in Korea, containing vitamins, ginseng extract, and other revitalising ingredients. It's the go-to pick-me-up for students and professionals, perfect for quick boosts during long walks or late-night adventures.

Bacchus is perfect for quick boosts during long walks or late-night adventures | Shutterstock

Citron Tea (유자차 | yujacha)

Yujacha, made from citron fruit and sweetened with honey, is especially comforting in chilly weather or when you’re feeling unwell. Its zesty aroma and vitamin C content make it a soothing choice.

A shot of Citron Tea | Shutterstock

Green Plum Tea (매실차 | maesilcha)

Maesilcha is a tangy tea made from green plums, known for aiding digestion and refreshing the palate after meals. It's a post-meal tradition for many Koreans.

A top view of traditional Korean Green Plum Tea | Shutterstock

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