When the chill of Korean winter starts creeping in, there’s a simple joy in wrapping your hands around a warm drink. For me, discovering the warm beverage section at Korea’s 편의점 (convenience stores) was like finding a treasure trove of comfort. These little bottles and cans aren’t just drinks—they’re mini lifesavers that kept me warm on freezing days and soothed my throat when I wasn’t feeling my best.
A Cozy Section Amid Convenience
One thing I quickly noticed about Korean convenience stores is their knack for seasonal offerings. As soon as the temperatures dropped, the shelves near the counter transformed into a warm drink haven. Unlike the refrigerated drinks on the other side, these were neatly arranged in heated display cases, waiting to offer warmth to anyone who needed it.
It was so convenient. Whether I was rushing to class or walking back home with frozen fingers, I could count on a quick stop at a 편의점 for something warm to drink. There was no hassle, no waiting, just instant warmth in a bottle.
My Go-To Comfort Drinks
Among the many options, these became my absolute favorites.
유자차 (Citron Tea): This one quickly stole my heart. Made from yuzu, it’s a sweet, slightly tangy drink that feels like sunshine in a bottle. It’s a classic Korean comfort drink, perfect for brightening up cold, gray days.
꿀홍삼 (Honey Ginseng Tea): At first, the idea of drinking ginseng felt a bit intimidating, but this tea’s earthy flavor, softened by honey, won me over. It’s a drink that makes you feel healthier with every sip—like you’re drinking something ancient and wise.
허니 물 (Honey Water): This one’s as simple as it sounds, but don’t let that fool you. It’s lightly sweet and incredibly soothing, especially when you’re under the weather.
모과 생강차 (Pear Ginger Tea): This Minute Maid drink became my go-to whenever my throat needed a little extra TLC. The subtle spiciness of ginger combined with the sweet and citrusy quince is a magical combination that warms you from the inside out.
More Than Just Warmth
These drinks weren’t just about keeping warm—they were small acts of self-care. On days when I woke up with a scratchy throat or felt the early signs of a cold, grabbing a bottle of 유자차 or 꿀홍삼 felt like taking proactive steps to nurture myself.
Korean food and drinks often carry this duality of being both delicious and functional, and these 편의점 beverages are no exception. They’re not only tasty but also packed with natural ingredients like yuzu, honey, and ginger which are known for their soothing properties.
A Unique Korean Experience
What I love most about this warm drink tradition is how uniquely Korean it feels. Back in Mexico, finding these kinds of warm drinks, even during cooler weather, would be quite rare. The idea of consistently sipping on warm drinks during the day—especially from a convenience store—was new to me.
However, I found it incredibly comforting. There’s something special about the thoughtfulness of a 편의점 dedicating a section to warm beverages during winter. It reflects the Korean tendency to prioritize convenience while also catering to the season’s needs.
Small Pleasures in Cold Moments
Whether you’re walking home on a cold evening or just need a quick pick-me-up, these drinks offer more than just hydration. They bring a sense of comfort, a moment of warmth, and even a little nostalgia for anyone who has ever called Korea home.
So, next time you find yourself in Korea during winter, don’t overlook the small warm drink section at your local 편의점. Grab a 유자차 or 꿀홍삼, and let it warm both your hands and your heart. These little bottles of comfort are more than worth it.
