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| Koreans always order an iced Americano to stay alert, even at freezing temperature |
In South Korea, iced americano remains the go-to coffee choice—regardless of the season. Even when temperatures drop to -18°C, it's common to see people bundled up in thick black coats, still holding cups filled with ice-cold coffee.
❄️ The "Eoljukaah" Phenomenon: Iced Coffee in Freezing Temperatures
This cultural trend has even earned its own nickname: "eoljukaah" (얼죽아), meaning "willing to drink iced coffee even if it means freezing."
For many South Koreans, an iced americano is more than just a drink—it’s an essential energy booster that keeps them alert and focused, no matter how cold it is outside.
📈 Iced Americano: South Korea’s Most Popular Coffee
The love for iced americanos is backed by hard data. According to Starbucks Korea, it has been the best-selling drink since 2009.
📊 Key statistics:
✔️ South Korea imported nearly 202,000 tons of coffee in 2024—a record high.
✔️ On average, each of the country’s 51 million people consumes 260 americanos per year.
✔️ In 2024, 70% of Starbucks Korea’s drinks sold were cold, even during winter months.
Even in November, over 60% of customers still preferred iced coffee over hot drinks.
⚡ The "Ppalli Ppalli" Culture & Coffee as a Functional Drink
Unlike in Europe, where coffee is a social experience, South Koreans often view coffee as a functional necessity. This aligns with the country's "ppalli ppalli" (빨리 빨리) culture, which values speed and efficiency.
Professor Kim Yun-tae from Korea Sejong University explains:
🗣️ "For South Koreans, coffee is more of a tool than a treat. It’s about getting caffeine quickly, not about savoring the experience."
With some of the longest working hours among OECD countries, South Koreans often don’t have time for leisurely coffee breaks.
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| An iced americano was sold in summer in Daejeon, Korea 2024 |
💰 Affordability & Convenience: More Reasons to Choose Iced Americano
Another reason for its popularity is that an iced americano is cheap, quick, and easy to prepare.
✔️ Takes only 1 minute to make—ideal for busy professionals.
✔️ Most affordable coffee option at cafes and convenience stores.
✔️ Low-calorie choice—just 15 calories, with no sugar, no fat, and no guilt.
Professor Kim also notes that hot drinks take longer to drink, making them inconvenient for people on the go.
🗣️ "You can't drink a hot coffee quickly, and you don’t have time to wait for it to cool down. An iced drink is just more convenient," he explains.
🌶️ Spicy Food & Cold Coffee: A Perfect Match
Another factor is South Korea’s love for spicy food.
Professor Lee Sang-kyu from Chungbuk Health & Science University explains:
🗣️ "Koreans eat a lot of hot, spicy food, which makes hot coffee less appealing. Iced coffee just feels more refreshing in any situation."
This explains why, no matter the season, iced americano remains the #1 choice.
Reference: Koreajoongangdaily
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