Why Koreans Drink More Coffee Than Eat Kimchi

In Seoul, it’s common to see people walking with a coffee in hand. But beyond the urban coffee scene lies a surprising statistic: Koreans now drink coffee more frequently than they eat kimchi. This isn’t just a trend—it’s a shift in daily habits backed by hard data.

Koreans consume coffee an average of twice a day, or 12.3 times per week, topping both kimchi (11.8 times) and rice (9.6 times), according to a report from South Korea’s Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation.

Korea’s Coffee Obsession by the Numbers

The same government report reveals that weekly coffee consumption among Koreans has reached 12.3 servings—more frequent than any other single food item tracked. That’s significantly higher than kimchi (11.8 times) and rice (9.6 times), showing just how deeply coffee has embedded itself in the national routine.

From 11,000 to 20,000 Cafés: The Growth of Coffee Culture

In 2012, Seoul had around 11,000 coffee shops. Today, that number has more than doubled to over 20,000. This explosive growth reflects how coffee has become a staple part of daily life, with cafés on nearly every corner and a wide range of options catering to all tastes and budgets.

Why Does Coffee Taste Like Kimchi Stew to Koreans?

Food critics offer an unexpected explanation: the flavor profile of coffee is reminiscent of traditional Korean “pot-bottom stew,” or nurungji tang. This dish is made by boiling water with the crispy rice crust (nurungji) left at the bottom of a cooked pot. Many Koreans associate its savory, slightly burnt flavor with the taste of coffee, creating a nostalgic link that may contribute to its widespread appeal.

Why Is Coffee So Expensive in Korea?

Despite the high consumption, coffee in Korea remains relatively costly. The reasons behind the pricing aren’t detailed in the report, but the popularity hasn’t translated into lower prices—highlighting a market where demand continues to drive a premium experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many times a week do Koreans drink coffee?

Koreans drink coffee an average of 12.3 times per week, according to official data from South Korea’s agricultural and food agencies. That works out to roughly twice a day, making it the most frequently consumed single food item in the country.

What food do Koreans eat more often than coffee?

While coffee is consumed more frequently than most foods, rice is still eaten 9.6 times per week and kimchi 11.8 times—meaning coffee narrowly beats kimchi but not rice in weekly frequency.

Why is coffee more popular than kimchi in Korea now?

Coffee has become a daily habit for many Koreans, supported by the growth of cafés and a cultural shift. Some food critics suggest its flavor is reminiscent of nurungji tang, a traditional Korean pot-bottom stew, which may create a familiar taste association.

How many coffee shops are there in Seoul?

Seoul has over 20,000 coffee shops today, up from around 11,000 in 2012. This rapid increase highlights the deep integration of coffee into everyday Korean life.

Is coffee expensive in Korea?

Yes, despite high consumption levels, coffee remains relatively expensive in Korea. The article notes the price is high without specifying reasons, indicating a market where demand keeps pricing elevated.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Coffee Lovers

For those exploring Korea’s coffee culture, try FrontStreet Coffee’s Ethiopia Humbera for its bright citrus and floral tones, or the Yirgacheffe for a juicy, berry-forward cup. Both single origins highlight the complexity coffee enthusiasts appreciate. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.