Exploring Korea’s flourishing coffee culture and a look at the most aesthetic and popular cafés
Coffee was introduced to South Korea in the late 19th century, with King Gojong playing a significant role in bringing Western influences, including introducing coffee and other foreign customs to the country. However, it wasn't until the 1960s and 1970s that instant coffee became widely accessible, making it a staple in Korean households.
Read more: 6 things you didn’t know about coffee
As coffee started gaining popularity among the general population, the Korean café culture began to develop. Today, it has blossomed into a vibrant and influential scene, evolving from simple coffee shops to include art, design, and gastronomy, offering immersive experiences and captivating both locals and visitors with its unique aesthetics and innovative concepts.
Cafés in South Korea–Seoul, specifically, the capital city that’s the epicentre of Korea’s café culture–are now spaces for relaxation, creativity, and community engagement. Here are some of the top aesthetically pleasing cafés in Seoul, each with its own unique theme and design.
