List of Korean drinks facts for kids

This list of Korean drinks includes drinks, traditional or modern, which are distinctive to or closely identified with Korea. Brands and companies are South Korean unless noted.

Discovering Korean Drinks!

Korea has many interesting drinks, both old and new. From sweet, cool punches to healthy teas and fun flavored milks, there's a drink for everyone! These drinks are a big part of Korean culture and daily life. Let's explore some of the most popular and unique ones.

Traditional Non-Alcoholic Drinks

Many traditional Korean drinks are made from natural ingredients like grains, fruits, and roots. They are often enjoyed during holidays or as refreshing treats.

Sweet and Refreshing Punches

Korean punches are often served cold and are perfect for hot days or after a meal.

• Sujeonggwa

Sujeonggwa is a traditional Korean cinnamon punch. It's made by boiling cinnamon sticks and ginger, then adding sugar. After cooling, it often has a dried persimmon and a pine nut floating in it. It has a spicy, sweet, and refreshing taste. People often drink it after a big meal because it's believed to help with digestion.

• Sikhye

Sikhye is a sweet rice punch. It's made by soaking malted barley water with cooked rice. This process creates a natural sweetness. Sikhye is usually served cold and is a popular dessert drink. You might find whole grains of cooked rice at the bottom of your glass, which you can eat! It's a favorite drink at Korean saunas (called jjimjilbang) and during holidays.

Healthy and Flavorful Teas

Korean teas are not always made from tea leaves. Many are made from grains, fruits, or herbs and are known for their health benefits.

• Bori-cha (Barley Tea)

Bori-cha is a roasted barley tea. It's very popular and is often served instead of water in Korean homes and restaurants. It has a light, nutty, and slightly bitter taste. It can be enjoyed hot or cold and is known for being very refreshing. It's also caffeine-free, so you can drink it any time of day.

• Oksoosu-cha (Corn Tea)

Oksoosu-cha is a tea made from roasted corn kernels. Like barley tea, it's a common everyday drink in Korea. It has a sweet, slightly smoky, and comforting flavor. It's also caffeine-free and can be served hot or cold. Many people enjoy its unique aroma.

• Omija-cha (Five-Flavor Berry Tea)

Omija-cha is a beautiful red tea made from omija berries, also known as magnolia berries. The name "omija" means "five flavors" because the berry is said to have sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and pungent tastes all at once! This tea is often sweetened with honey and served cold. It's known for its refreshing and complex flavor.

Modern and Popular Drinks

Just like in many countries, modern Korean drinks include a variety of fun and tasty options, from flavored milks to sparkling sodas.

Fun Flavored Milks

Flavored milks are a big hit in Korea, especially with younger people.

• Banana Milk

Banana milk is one of Korea's most iconic and beloved flavored milks. It comes in a distinctive chubby bottle and has a sweet, creamy banana flavor. It was first introduced in the 1970s and quickly became popular. It's a comforting and nostalgic drink for many Koreans and a must-try for visitors.

Sparkling Sodas and Juices

Korea also has many popular sodas and fruit juices.

• Milkis

Milkis is a unique Korean soft drink that mixes soda with milk. It has a creamy, sweet, and fizzy taste. It's often described as a "creamy soda" and comes in various fruit flavors like strawberry, banana, and melon, besides the original.

• Fruit Juices

Korean markets and convenience stores offer a wide range of fruit juices. Popular choices include grape juice with whole grapes inside, pear juice, and various citrus juices. These are often enjoyed as a healthy and refreshing option.