South Korea’s Coffee Boom Fuels Push for Local Tea

In South Korea, coffee isn’t just popular—it’s now the default post-meal drink. But this caffeine habit comes at a cost: domestic tea production has been falling steadily for years, even as coffee imports hit new highs. For anyone wondering why traditional Korean tea seems to have vanished from cafes and kitchens, the numbers tell the story.

The answer is clear: between January and May 2024, Korea imported 52,660 tons of coffee—an increase of 13.6% compared to the same period last year. Over the same timeframe, domestic tea output has plummeted, dropping from 3,888 tons in 2007 to just 3,709 tons in 2012. Coffee is winning, and tea is being left behind.

Korea’s Coffee Import Surge

Data from the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation (aT), reported by Yonhap and People’s Daily, shows a sharp rise in coffee imports. From January to May 2024 alone, Korea brought in 52,660 tons of coffee, up 13.6% year-on-year. This upward trend reflects coffee’s growing dominance in Korean food culture, especially as the go-to beverage after meals.

The Decline of Domestic Tea Production

While coffee flows in, Korea’s own tea industry has been in retreat. Figures show that domestic tea production fell from 3,888 tons in 2007 to 3,709 tons in 2012. That downward trajectory has contributed to tea’s diminished presence in the market, with consumers increasingly turning to imported coffee instead.

Government Action to Support Local Tea

To counter the decline and rekindle interest in Korean-grown tea, the government is taking action. On July 2–22, a policy forum will be held to gather public input on how to promote domestic tea. Additionally, the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs plans to increase the use of local tea in cafes and other venues. Officials are also researching ways to improve both the quality and price competitiveness of Korean tea, aiming to make it a more attractive choice for consumers.

Why This Matters to Coffee Drinkers

Even if you’re a dedicated coffee fan, the shift away from local tea matters. Coffee’s rise has reshaped Korea’s beverage landscape, often at the expense of traditional drinks. Understanding this trend helps explain why certain beverages dominate—and what efforts are underway to restore balance. It also highlights the challenges small agricultural sectors face in a market dominated by global imports.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much coffee did South Korea import from January to May 2024?

South Korea imported 52,660 tons of coffee between January and May 2024, marking a 13.6% increase compared to the same period the previous year, according to data from the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation (aT).

Why is domestic tea production declining in Korea?

Domestic tea production in Korea has been declining for years—dropping from 3,888 tons in 2007 to 3,709 tons in 2012—due to reduced consumer demand and the growing popularity of imported beverages like coffee.

What is the Korean government doing to support local tea?

The Korean government is holding a policy forum from July 2–22 to collect public opinions on promoting domestic tea. The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs also plans to increase the use of local tea in cafes and explore methods to enhance its quality and competitiveness.

Is coffee more popular than tea in Korea now?

Yes, coffee has become the preferred post-meal drink in Korea, with imports rising steadily, while domestic tea production and consumption have fallen significantly in recent years.

Where can I see the data on Korea’s coffee and tea trends?

The data comes from the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation (aT), as reported by Yonhap and cited in People’s Daily, covering January to May 2024 coffee imports and earlier tea production figures from 2007 to 2012.

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