Hello, lovely international students! Feeling a bit lost in the wonderland of Korean goodies as an international student here? Well, you’ve come to the right place, I’ve got you covered!
Exploring Korean snacks is an adventure, and convenience store favorites are a whole world of their own, you know?
We’ll explore everything from classic Korean sweet snacks that will make your heart flutter, to those addictive popular savory munchies.
And of course, we can’t forget the amazing top convenience store drinks or the surprisingly satisfying easy convenience store meals for those busy days.
Get ready for a delicious tour!
Classic Korean Sweet Snacks
Oh, where do I even begin with classic Korean sweet snacks?! If you’ve got a bit of a sweet tooth, or even if you just enjoy a pleasant treat now and then, South Korea has got you covered, you know? The variety is just incredible, and each snack often comes with its own little story or a special way it’s enjoyed. It’s not just about the sugar rush; it’s about the experience, the nostalgia for many Koreans, and for you, a delightful discovery! Let’s explore some of the all-time favorites that you’ll likely encounter and absolutely should try.
Choco Pie (초코파이)
First up, we absolutely have to talk about Choco Pie (초코파이). This isn’t just a snack; it’s practically an institution in Korea! Imagine two soft, round cakes sandwiching a fluffy marshmallow filling, all enrobed in a layer of smooth chocolate. Sounds simple, but it’s pure bliss, I tell you! Launched by Orion in 1974, it quickly became a symbol of affection and “Jeong” (정), a unique Korean concept that encompasses feelings of kindness, warmth, and attachment. In fact, over 2.3 billion Choco Pies are sold annually worldwide, which is just mind-boggling, isn’t it?! For many years, it was even a highly coveted treat among soldiers during their military service. It’s truly a beloved snack, enjoyed by people of all ages, you see! You might find different brands, like Lotte’s version, but the Orion original is often considered the classic. It’s the kind of snack that’s perfect with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee. So comforting!
Pepero (빼빼로)
Then there’s the iconic Pepero (빼빼로). These are thin, crunchy biscuit sticks, typically dipped in chocolate, but oh, the varieties are endless! Made by Lotte Confectionery, Pepero has its own special day – Pepero Day on November 11th (11/11), chosen because the date resembles the shape of the sticks. How cute is that?! On this day, friends and couples exchange boxes of Pepero as a sign of affection or friendship. The sales of Pepero reportedly skyrocket by 50-60% during this period compared to a regular month! You’ll find them in classic chocolate, almond (a personal favorite of many!), white chocolate cookie, nude (chocolate-filled), and so many more inventive flavors that come and go with trends. It’s really fun to try all the different kinds and pick your favorite, don’t you think? They’re super shareable too, which is always a plus.
Yakgwa (약과)
Now, for something a bit more traditional but equally delightful, let me introduce you to Yakgwa (약과). This is a Korean honey cookie, and its history dates back centuries, even to the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392)! “Yak” means medicine and “gwa” means菓子 (confectionery), so it was historically considered a healthful treat, often enjoyed during festive occasions and ancestral rites. Yakgwa is typically made from wheat flour, sesame oil, honey, ginger juice, and sometimes a touch of rice wine (cheongju). The dough is pressed into beautiful patterns, often flower-shaped, and then deep-fried at a low temperature before being soaked in a honey-ginger syrup. The result is a dense, chewy, and slightly sticky cookie with a wonderfully rich, sweet, and subtly spiced flavor. The texture is quite unique – not quite a cake, not quite a biscuit, but something wonderfully in between. You can find them pre-packaged in most supermarkets or convenience stores, and they offer a lovely taste of Korean tradition. They have a relatively high caloric density, often around 120-150 kcal per piece (around 35-40g), due to the honey and oil content, but they are so worth it for a special treat!
Kancho (칸쵸)
Another charming little snack you might enjoy is Kancho (칸쵸). These are small, bite-sized, round biscuits filled with chocolate. What makes them extra fun, especially for kids (and kids at heart ^^), are the cute cartoon characters printed on the surface of each biscuit! Each little sphere is light and crispy, and the chocolate inside is sweet and satisfying. They usually come in a distinctive hexagonal box or a cup, making them easy to snack on the go. Lotte Confectionery also makes these, and they’ve been a steady seller since their introduction in 1984. They’re not overwhelmingly sweet, just a perfect little pop of flavor.
Margaret (마가렛트)
And let’s not forget Margaret (마가렛트)! These are soft, home-style cookies that have a wonderfully buttery and slightly nutty flavor, often with peanuts embedded in them. They are more like a soft-baked cookie rather than a crispy one. Think of a tender, crumbly texture that almost melts in your mouth. They often come individually wrapped within a larger box, which keeps them fresh and makes them great for portion control (if you can stop at one, that is!). The Lotte Margaret, introduced in 1987, is the original and most well-known. They sometimes have variations too, like a chocolate-filled version. It’s a very comforting, almost nostalgic cookie for many Koreans. It feels like something your grandma might bake, you know?
Popular Savory Munchies
Sometimes you just need that salty, umami kick. Sweet snacks are wonderful, of course, but savory munchies have a special place in my heart, and Korean convenience stores are treasure troves for them! You’ll be amazed by the variety.
Saewookkang (새우깡)
First up, a true legend, a snack that has been loved for generations: Saewookkang (새우깡)! Launched way back in 1971 by Nongshim, it’s one of Korea’s oldest and most iconic snacks. We’re talking over 50 years of crunchy, shrimpy goodness! The main ingredient is actual ground shrimp – typically around 7-8% of the total weight is flour mixed with real shrimp. This gives it that distinct, yet not overpowering, seafood flavor. The texture is light and airy, almost like a cheese puff but with a more delicate crisp. It’s not overly salty either, just perfectly seasoned. Fun fact: the average Korean consumes about 10 bags of Saewookkang per year! It’s *that* popular. You’ll often see people enjoying it with beer, but it’s fantastic on its own too. It’s a simple pleasure, but one that’s incredibly satisfying.
Yangparing (양파링)
Then there’s Yangparing (양파링), which literally translates to “onion rings.” These are also from Nongshim and have been around since 1983! They are large, ring-shaped snacks with a wonderfully light and crispy texture. Unlike some intensely flavored onion snacks you might find elsewhere, Yangparing has a more subtle, slightly sweet onion taste that’s incredibly addictive. They use real onion powder, constituting about 20% of the key seasoning, which gives them that authentic flavor. The rings are so fun to eat – you can even put them on your fingers like actual rings before munching down! They’re not greasy at all, which is a huge plus for me. Definitely a must-try if you like a milder, savory-sweet crunch.
Kkobuk Chips (꼬북칩)
These are from Orion and took the snack world by storm when they launched around 2017. “Kkobuk” means turtle, and they’re called Turtle Chips because their unique shape resembles a turtle’s shell. But the real magic is their incredible four-layer structure! Yes, FOUR layers! This innovative design creates an unparalleled airy crispiness that’s just out of this world. Imagine biting into something that shatters with a satisfying crunch in multiple dimensions – it’s amazing! The most popular flavor is definitely the Corn Soup flavor (콘스프맛 – Konseupeumat). It’s got this creamy, sweet, and savory corn chowder taste. They also have other flavors like Choco Churros (sweet, but the original is savory!), Sweet Cinnamon, and Injeolmi (roasted soybean powder – a more traditional Korean flavor). The texture alone makes Kkobuk Chips a must-experience snack.
Seasoned Dried Squid (오징어)
If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous and want something with a bit more chew, you absolutely have to try some seasoned dried squid (오징어). It’s a beloved snack in Korea, especially as an *anju* (안주), which is food consumed with alcohol. You’ll find various types in convenience stores. Some are shredded (진미채 – jinmichae, often seasoned with gochujang or soy sauce), some are whole flattened squid, and others are buttery and roasted. The texture can range from quite tough and chewy (great for a long-lasting snack!) to surprisingly tender. Dried squid is packed with protein – we’re talking about 60-70 grams of protein per 100 grams for plain dried varieties – and taurine, which is good for you! The flavor is savory, a little bit sweet, and distinctly oceanic. My personal favorite is the butter-roasted squid – it’s often slightly sweet and incredibly fragrant. It’s definitely a unique textural experience, but so, so good. Why not give it a try?! You might be surprised!
Gim Bugak (김부각) and Seaweed Snacks
And we can’t talk about savory Korean snacks without mentioning Gim Bugak (김부각) or other types of seaweed snacks! “Gim” is the Korean word for edible seaweed, similar to Japanese nori. Gim Bugak are crispy seaweed chips. To make them, sheets of seaweed are typically coated with a thin layer of glutinous rice paste, then dried, and finally deep-fried until they’re incredibly light and crispy. Sometimes sesame seeds or tiny dried anchovies are added to the paste for extra flavor and texture. They are savory, a little salty, and have that wonderful umami flavor from the seaweed. They’re less “oily” tasting than you might expect from a fried snack and are super addictive! You can also find simpler roasted seaweed snacks – thin, crispy sheets of gim seasoned with sesame oil and salt. These are much lighter, almost like paper, and are fantastic for a low-calorie, flavorful munch. Seaweed itself is a powerhouse of nutrients, rich in iodine, vitamins (like A and C), and minerals. So you can almost feel good about devouring a whole pack! Almost. These are super popular and very easy to find.
Matdongsan (맛동산)
Another one I personally adore is Matdongsan (맛동산). This one *can* lean a bit sweet because it’s coated in a sugary syrup with peanuts, but the base is a fried dough cracker that has a distinct savory, almost nutty, earthy flavor from the fermented grain dough. It was first released in 1975 by Haitai, and the process involves fermenting the dough with music! Yes, they say they play classical music in the fermentation rooms, believing it enhances the flavor and texture. How cool is that?! The result is a uniquely craggy, crunchy snack with a satisfyingly dense bite. The peanut coating adds a lovely sweetness and aroma. It’s a very nostalgic snack for many Koreans. It’s one of those where the sweet and savory elements play so well together.
These are just a few of the amazing savory snacks waiting for you in Korea! Each one has its own unique texture and flavor profile, reflecting different aspects of Korean culinary traditions. Exploring the snack aisle is like a mini-adventure, seriously! You’ll find so many interesting things. Don’t be afraid to pick up something that looks intriguing – that’s half the fun! Happy snacking!
Top Convenience Store Drinks
Alright, my friends, let’s talk about quenching your thirst in Korea, convenience store style! Seriously, the drink aisle in a Korean pyeon-ui-jeom (편의점, convenience store) is a universe unto itself, and you’re going to love exploring it, you are! It’s not just about grabbing a quick soda; oh no, it’s an adventure for your taste buds, it is. From milky delights to energizing potions, there’s a whole world waiting for you in those refrigerated shelves. So, let’s dive into some must-try options that’ll keep you hydrated and happy during your studies here, shall we?! ^^
Iconic Milk Drinks
First up, you absolutely HAVE to get acquainted with the legendary Banana Flavored Milk (바나나맛 우유). This isn’t just a drink; it’s a cultural icon, it is! You’ll recognize it instantly by its unique, chubby little bottle, designed by Binggrae back in 1974. They say the shape was inspired by traditional Korean pottery – how cool is that?! It boasts a sweet, creamy banana flavor that’s incredibly comforting. While the exact percentage of real banana might be modest (often around 1% banana juice concentrate), the taste is undeniably addictive! It typically contains around 85 calories per 240ml bottle and about 22 grams of sugar, so it’s definitely a treat, you know? Besides banana, you’ll also find strawberry, melon, and even lychee flavors in similar packaging. The coffee milk (커피맛 우유) is another classic, especially the one in the triangular pouch – a true retro vibe! These milk drinks are super popular with people of all ages, they are.
Convenient Coffee Options
Now, if you’re a coffee fiend like me, you’re in luck! Korean convenience stores are overflowing with ready-to-drink (RTD) coffees. You’ll find everything from canned Americanos (often surprisingly smooth!) and lattes to rich mochas and caramel macchiatos. Brands like Georgia Gotica, Cantata, and T.O.P are everywhere. One thing I find super convenient is the pouch coffee. These are little bags of concentrated coffee (or sometimes tea or ade) that you buy along with a cup of ice, also sold right there in the freezer section for about ₩500-₩700. Just tear open the pouch, pour it over the ice, and voilà – instant iced coffee for usually under ₩2,000! So much cheaper than a café, it is! Look out for brands like “Lookas 9” or various store-brand options. The caffeine content can range from a mild 50mg to a more robust 150mg per serving, depending on the type and size, so check the label if you’re sensitive!
Refreshing Traditional Teas and Punches
But it’s not all about caffeine and sugar highs, okay? Korea also has some wonderfully refreshing and often healthier traditional drinks. You absolutely must try Corn Silk Tea (옥수수수염차 – oksusuuyeomcha). It sounds a bit unusual, but it has a lovely, mild, slightly savory, and nutty flavor, and it’s naturally caffeine-free and often zero calories! It’s widely believed to help with reducing bloating – bonus! Then there’s Barley Tea (보리차 – boricha), another zero-calorie hero with a comforting roasted flavor, often served chilled. These are fantastic alternatives to plain water, they are.
For something a bit sweeter and more traditional, grab a can or bottle of Sikhye (식혜). This is a sweet rice punch, often served as a dessert drink. It’s got a unique malty sweetness and soft, cooked rice grains floating in it. It’s truly delicious and very Korean! Typically, sikhye contains around 10-15 grams of sugar per 100ml. Another traditional option you might find is Sujeonggwa (수정과), a cinnamon and ginger punch. It’s got a lovely spicy kick and is often enjoyed for its digestive properties. Very warming, even when chilled, it is!
Juices and Fruit-Flavored Beverages
Let’s not forget the juices and fruit-flavored drinks! Aloe Vera Juice (알로에 주스) is incredibly popular here. It’s super refreshing, usually not too sweet, and often contains little bits of aloe pulp, which is a fun texture! Brands like Woongjin’s “Nature is Aloe” are very common. They often boast about having a high percentage of aloe gel, sometimes up to 30-40% by volume. Just be mindful that some varieties can have a surprising amount of sugar, so check the label if you’re watching your intake. You’ll also find classics like grape juice (Welch’s is popular, but there are Korean brands too!) and pomegranate juice, often marketed for its antioxidant properties.
Energy and Vitamin Boosters
Feeling a bit sluggish before that big lecture? Korean convenience stores have got your back with a range of energy and vitamin drinks! The OG Korean energy drink is Bacchus (박카스). It’s been around since the 1960s and is almost a national institution, it is! It comes in a small, brown glass bottle and has a unique, slightly medicinal, sweet-tart taste often compared to Red Bull but definitely distinct. It’s packed with taurine, usually around 2,000mg per 100ml bottle, which is its main selling point. Another incredibly popular one is Vita 500 (비타500). As the name suggests, it’s a non-carbonated vitamin C drink, delivering 500mg of Vitamin C per cute little 100ml bottle. It’s sweet, tangy, and often given as a little pick-me-up gift. You’ll see famous celebrities endorsing these drinks all the time! They’re really a part of daily life here, they are.
The Essential: Water
And of course, there’s always water (물 – mul)! You’ll find a huge selection of bottled mineral water, from famous brands like Samdasoo (sourced from Jeju Island volcanic rock) to various other filtered and spring waters. Sometimes you’ll even find flavored sparkling waters if you’re looking for something bubbly but not too sweet.
For a Little Kick: Beer and Soju
Oh, and if you’re looking for something with a bit more of a kick, you’ll definitely see single-serving cans of beer (맥주 – maekju) like Cass or Terra, and small green bottles of Soju (소주). The convenience store soju options are usually the standard ones, with an alcohol by volume (ABV) typically ranging from 16% to 20%. They even sell small plastic cups and ice sometimes, making it super convenient for a quick, impromptu chill session by the Han River, you know? 😉 Just remember to always drink responsibly, okay?!
Probiotic Yogurt Drinks
Finally, don’t overlook the probiotic yogurt drinks! You know, those tiny bottles like Yakult (though there are many Korean brands like “Will” or “Gut” that are very popular too). Koreans are quite keen on gut health, and these little fermented milk drinks are a daily staple for many. They’re usually found in multi-packs and are a quick and easy way to get some probiotics into your system. They taste pretty good too – sweet and tangy!
Whew! That’s quite a list, isn’t it?! And believe me, this is just scratching the surface. The best way to find your favorite is to just be adventurous and try something new every time you pop into a convenience store. You never know what delicious discovery awaits you! Happy sipping! ^^
Easy Convenience Store Meals
Let’s dive into the world of super convenient and surprisingly delicious meals you can grab from a Korean convenience store, or “편의점 (pyeonuijeom)” as we call them! When you’re swamped with studies or just too tired to even think about cooking, these options are absolute lifesavers, they are. Plus, they’re incredibly budget-friendly, which is a huge bonus for students, right?! ^^
도시락 (Dosirak): The All-in-One Meal
First up, we absolutely HAVE to talk about 도시락 (dosirak), which are pre-packaged lunch boxes. These aren’t your average, sad-looking pre-made meals, oh no! Korean convenience store dosiraks are a whole other level. You can find a fantastic variety, typically ranging from about 4,000 KRW to 7,000 KRW. Think about it – for less than $6 USD, you get a full meal! Many feature a main dish like 불고기 (bulgogi – marinated beef), 제육볶음 (jeyuk bokkeum – spicy stir-fried pork), 돈까스 (donkkaseu – pork cutlet), or even fried chicken. And they almost always come with rice and several 반찬 (banchan – side dishes) like kimchi, seasoned vegetables, or sometimes even a small sausage or egg roll. The average calorie count for these can range from 600 to 900 kcal, providing a pretty substantial energy boost. GS25’s “Kim Hye-ja Dosirak” series was legendary for its quality and value, and other stores like CU and 7-Eleven have their own popular lines, often collaborating with famous restaurants or chefs! You just pop them in the microwave, usually provided at the store, for about 1 minute 30 seconds to 2 minutes, and you’ve got a hot, satisfying meal. It’s pretty amazing, it is!
김밥 (Kimbap): Rolls and Triangles
Next, no discussion about easy meals in Korea is complete without mentioning 김밥 (kimbap)! You’ll find two main types: the classic roll kimbap, often sold in pre-cut slices, and the super convenient 삼각김밥 (samgak kimbap), or triangle kimbap. These little triangles of joy are iconic! They usually cost between 1,000 KRW and 2,000 KRW, making them a super affordable snack or light meal. The fillings are diverse: 참치마요 (chamchi mayo – tuna mayonnaise) is a classic and probably the most popular, 전주비빔 (Jeonju bibim – Jeonju-style mixed rice), 불고기 (bulgogi), and various spicy pork or chicken options are also widely available. A single samgak kimbap typically contains around 150-250 kcal. The genius of samgak kimbap is its packaging – you unwrap it in a specific way that keeps the seaweed (김 – gim) crisp until the last moment. It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference, you know? The roll kimbaps are a bit more substantial and might cost around 3,000 KRW to 4,500 KRW. They’re perfect if you’re a bit hungrier.
라면 (Ramyeon): Instant Noodle Paradise
And then, there’s the undisputed king of late-night study sessions or quick, warming meals: 라면 (ramyeon)! Cup noodles, specifically. The variety is just astounding, it really is! From classics like 신라면 (Shin Ramyun) with its signature spice (around 1,330 Scoville Heat Units, or SHU, for the original packet version, cup versions can vary slightly) to the fiery challenge of 불닭볶음면 (Buldak Bokkeummyun – Hot Chicken Flavor Ramen), which can go up to 4,404 SHU for the original, and even higher for some of its spicier variants! There are also non-spicy options like 진라면 순한맛 (Jin Ramen Mild) or various udon and jjajangmyeon (black bean sauce noodles) style cups. Most cup ramyeons cost between 1,000 KRW and 2,000 KRW. All you need is hot water, which every convenience store provides. Pro tip: many Koreans love to add a string cheese or a soft-boiled egg (also sold separately at the convenience store!) to their ramyeon to make it creamier or add extra protein. Just be mindful of the sodium content; a single serving can often contain 1,500mg to over 2,000mg of sodium, which is a significant chunk of the WHO’s recommended daily intake of 2,000mg (or 5g of salt). So, maybe not every single day, okay? 😉
Sandwiches and Burgers: Unique Flavors
Don’t overlook the sandwiches and burgers either! Korean convenience store sandwiches are quite unique. The 인기가요 샌드위치 (Inkigayo sandwich), famously sold at SBS’s cafeteria and later popularized in convenience stores, is a sweet and savory concoction with layers of egg salad, strawberry jam, and sometimes crab meat or tuna salad. Sounds weird? It’s surprisingly good! You’ll also find simpler options like egg salad sandwiches (계란 샐러드 샌드위치 – gyeran saelleodeu saendeuwichi) or ham and cheese. Burgers, often with a teriyaki chicken patty or a breaded pork cutlet, are also available and can be microwaved for a quick, hot bite. These usually range from 2,500 KRW to 4,000 KRW.
즉석밥 (Jeukseokbap) and Accompaniments: Quick Comfort
For something even simpler, you can always grab a bowl of 즉석밥 (jeukseokbap – instant microwaveable rice) like 햇반 (Hetbahn). A standard 210g bowl of white rice is about 300-315 kcal. Pair it with a packet of microwaveable soup or stew, like 김치찌개 (kimchi jjigae) or 된장찌개 (doenjang jjigae), or even some ready-to-eat side dishes like seasoned seaweed or canned tuna. Many convenience stores now offer small, single-serving pouches of these stews that are perfect for one person. It’s like a mini home-cooked meal, it is!
Quick Protein Boosts
And let’s not forget the quick protein boosts! You can find items like 맥스봉 (Maxbon) cheese sausages, smoked chicken breast, or 삶은계란 (salmeun gyeran – hard-boiled eggs) and 훈제계란 (hunje gyeran – smoked eggs). These are perfect for when you need a little something to tide you over but don’t want a full meal. A typical smoked egg is around 70-80 kcal and a good source of protein.
Seriously, the range of easy meals available is just incredible, and they’re constantly innovating and releasing new products. Many stores also have “PB (Private Brand)” items like “YouUs” from GS25 or “HEYROO” from CU, which often offer great quality at an even better price. So next time you’re in a pinch, you know where to go! It’s all about making life easier and tastier, even on a student budget. Pretty cool, huh?!
Okay, so we’ve journeyed through a pretty amazing world of Korean snacks and quick convenience store bites, haven’t we? From those irresistible sweet treats and can’t-stop-eating savory munchies to refreshing drinks and surprisingly satisfying meals, there’s truly a whole universe waiting for you on those shelves. I really hope this little guide has sparked some excitement and given you a great starting point. So, go on, be adventurous in the aisles – you might just discover your new all-time favorite. Happy snacking, and enjoy every delicious moment of your time in Korea!