Refreshing Korean Beverages You’ll Love to Drink

Korean beverages offer a delightful range of flavors, textures, and health benefits, catering to a variety of tastes. From sweet to savory, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a collection of refreshing Korean drinks that you’ll love to try.

1. Sikhye (식혜)

Sikhye is a traditional sweet rice drink made from fermented malt and cooked rice. This refreshing beverage is often enjoyed as a dessert or during festivals. With its sweet, slightly fizzy taste, Sikhye is not only delicious but also easy to make at home. The addition of pine nuts or dried fruit elevates its presentation.

2. Sujeonggwa (수정과)

Sujeonggwa is a traditional Korean spiced punch made with dried persimmons, cinnamon, and ginger. This drink is usually served cold, making it perfect for summer gatherings. Aside from its refreshing qualities, Sujeonggwa is also believed to aid digestion, making it a popular choice after meals.

3. Omija Cha (오미자차)

Omija Cha, or five-flavor tea, is made from dried berries of the Schisandra plant. This herbal tea is known for its unique taste, which combines sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and pungent flavors. It is commonly served cold and can be enjoyed plain or sweetened with honey. Omija Cha is reputed for its health benefits, including stress relief and improved skin health.

4. Barley Tea (보리차)

Barley tea, known as Boricha, is a popular non-caffeinated beverage in Korea. Made by brewing roasted barley, it has a nutty, toasty flavor. Barley tea is a staple in Korean households, served either hot or cold, making it an excellent thirst-quencher during warm weather. It’s also known for improving digestion and hydration.

5. Yakult-like Yogurt Drinks (야쿠르트)

In Korea, yogurt drinks are a beloved part of the beverage scene. Brands like Yakult offer probiotic-rich drinks that are both tangy and sweet. These drinks are incredibly refreshing and promote gut health, making them a smart choice for a healthy lifestyle. They can be consumed on their own or used as mixers in cocktails.

6. Korean Lemon Tea (레몬차)

Korean lemon tea is a soothing drink made from fresh lemons, honey, and water. This beverage is particularly popular during cold months as a remedy for colds and sore throats. Served hot or cold, it provides a zesty, refreshing taste that is invigorating at any time of the year.

7. Watermelon Juice (수박주스)

Watermelon juice is a summery favorite in Korea, celebrated for its hydrating properties. Made by blending fresh watermelon, this drink is light, refreshing, and naturally sweet. Often enjoyed in the hot summer months, watermelon juice is a great way to stay cool while indulging in a delicious treat.

8. Tea from Mung Beans (녹두차)

Mung bean tea, or Nokdu Cha, is a unique beverage that is not only refreshing but also nutritious. Made by boiling mung beans and then straining the liquid, this light drink offers a subtle bean flavor that is both comforting and wholesome. It’s often enjoyed chilled during the hot months.

Exploring these refreshing Korean beverages is an adventure in taste and wellness. Whether you’re looking for something traditional or novel, Korean drinks offer a delightful way to quench your thirst and experience the rich culture of Korea. So why not try making some of these drinks at home or seek them out at your nearest Korean restaurant? You'll surely be adding them to your favorites!