By now I am sure you’ve watched a lot of Korean dramas, movies, and K-pop music videos and you’ve noticed something distinct and common on the screens and that is the intentional obsession of Koreans with cafés mostly in modern-day dramas. 

People who have been to Korea can definitely attest to the fact that the appearances of cafés in dramas and movies are more than the product placement culture we are used to, as these cafés are sometimes a necessity in these screenplays. You might want to ask, why are cafés so present in Korean daily life? The answer to that is that cafés in Korea are more than just places to grab a cup of coffee.

Come with me, let’s explore what makes Korean café culture so unique and why it continues to thrive.

It’s a Social Hub for all Occasions

As I mentioned earlier, cafés in Korea are more than just places to drink coffee, they are seen as social spaces where people gather to chat, work, or even go on dates. Just like here in Nigeria, many Koreans live with their families until marriage, therefore cafés are their go-to places for socializing because they provide a convenient and comfortable space to meet up with friends or loved ones. 

Study and Work-Friendly Spaces

In Korea, there are cafés that cater especially to students and professionals looking for a quiet place to either study or work. These cafés are known as ‘study cafés,’ and they provide designated silent areas, free Wi-Fi, and unlimited refills to encourage productivity. With long working hours and a strong emphasis on education, these cafés offer an ideal environment for concentration and focus.

Instagram-Worthy Aesthetics

In this generation, we all know aesthetics are everything for the gram (as we say in Nigeria) and of course, Korean cafés serve as an addition to aesthetic presence in Korea. Many cafés are designed with beautiful interiors, artistic presentations, and picture-perfect drinks, making them a favorite spot for influencers and social media lovers. Many times cafés serve as the perfect backdrop for Instagram pictures, especially among celebrities. For Koreans, the visual appeal of cafés is just as important as the coffee itself.

Late-Night Coffee Culture

Unlike in many Western countries, where cafés close in the early evening, many Korean cafés stay open late, some even have 24/7 services. This makes them popular spots for night owls, students pulling all-nighters, and people looking for a quiet late-night retreat. The ability to enjoy a cup of coffee at any hour adds to the country’s strong café culture.

Influence of Korean Pop Culture

Apparently, Korean dramas, K-pop, and social media have further fueled the love for cafés. Many famous cafés gain popularity after being featured in dramas or visited by celebrities. Fans of these celebrities, or even influencers, often visit these locations to recreate iconic scenes from their favorite shows. Another addition to the popular café culture or love.

It is also worthy to note that the constant invention of amazing drinks and fruity mixtures by these cafés, workers, and owners are also a facilitator of the café culture’s popularity.

Next time you see a café shop in a drama, now you know they are not just coffee shops, but we could consider them as cultural landmarks or social hubs.

If you are an aspiring Korean visitor, then I am sure you want to put 'visiting different Korean cafes' on your Korean trip to-do list. What's your dream cafe experience? Share with me in the comments!