Hello there, fellow food explorers! I’m Min, your local guide living in the heart of Seoul.
Whenever I travel abroad, the first place I hit isn’t a fancy museum—it’s the local convenience store! There’s something so magical about finding snacks you can’t get anywhere else, right? Well, if you’re planning a trip to Korea, you’re in luck. Our ‘Pyeonuijeom’ (CVS) culture is on a whole different level. It’s not just a shop; it’s a 24/7 lifestyle hub, a gourmet cafeteria, and a treasure trove of viral trends.
As someone with a National Technical Qualification in Korean Cooking and Confectionery/Baking, I take my snacks very seriously. Today, I’m pulling back the curtain on what you actually need to put in your basket!
🏪 The Kingdom of Convenience: Why Korea is Different
In Korea, you’re never more than a 5-minute walk from a bright neon sign. Whether it’s CU, GS25, 7-Eleven, or emart24, each brand has its own “exclusive” items that spark nationwide open runs.
A Quick History & Today’s Vibe
Korean convenience stores started in the late 80s, but they’ve evolved into high-tech lounges.
- The Trend: It’s all about ‘Modisumer’ (Modify + Consumer) culture—where people mix different products to create secret recipes (like the famous Mark Meal!).
- The Stats: Did you know Korea has the highest density of convenience stores per capita in the world? In 2023, the number of stores surpassed 55,000 nationwide. That’s a lot of snacks!
🛍️ The “Must-Buy” List: From Viral Hits to Local Classics
I’ve curated this list based on what’s trending right now in Seoul and what my international friends always beg me to buy for them.
1. The Viral Sensations (The “Get It Before It’s Gone” Items)
- Dubai Chocolate: The hottest item of 2025! It’s a thick chocolate bar filled with crunchy pistachio kadayif. The texture is a “crunch-fest” that goes perfectly with the silky chocolate.
- Chestnut Tiramisu Cup (밤 티라미수): Inspired by a famous cooking show, this dessert is incredibly creamy with a deep, earthy sweetness from Korean chestnuts. It’s like a hug in a cup!
- Yonsei Milk Cream Bread: This is the “King of CVS Bread.” When you tear it open, the amount of fresh cream is honestly shocking—it’s about 80% cream and 20% bread. It’s fluffy, cloud-like, and not too sweet.
2. The Thirst Quenchers
- Banana Flavored Milk: The iconic “Binggrae” jar. It’s nostalgic, creamy, and tastes like a liquid hug.
- Strawberry Milk: Look for the ones with actual strawberry bits. They use high-quality Korean strawberries, which are famous for their intense fragrance.
- Convenience Store Highballs: Why go to a bar? Grab a canned “Lemon Highball” or “Earl Grey Highball.” They are bubbly, refreshing, and surprisingly sophisticated.
3. Savory Cravings & Smart Snacks
- Hanson-Hanki Protein Shake: For the health-conscious traveler! These are stylish, easy to drink on the go, and actually taste like delicious grain lattes (Misutgaru).
- Seaweed & Gim-bugak (Seaweed Chips): These are light, crispy, and coated with a savory seasoning. They are the ultimate “I can’t stop eating these” snack.
- Neighbor’s Hwang-Cheese Croong-ji: A “Croong-ji” is a flattened, crispy croissant (like scorched rice). The “Hwang-cheese” (yellow cheddar) flavor adds a salty-sweet punch that is incredibly addictive.
- Soft-Boiled Eggs (Bansuk-ran): Perfectly seasoned and jammy on the inside. They are the gold standard for a quick, high-protein breakfast.
💡 Min’s Pro-Tips for Your CVS Raid
Before you grab your basket, keep these local secrets in mind:
- Look for “1+1” or “2+1” Labels: This is the soul of Korean shopping! If you see these tags, you get an extra item for free or at a massive discount.
- The “Cook-It-Yourself” Ramen Station: Most stores have an induction heater for “Hangang-style” ramen. Add a slice of cheese and a soft-boiled egg to level up your meal.
- Check the “New” Section: Brands like GS25 and CU release new “collaboration” items every Tuesday or Thursday. That’s when you’ll find the next viral hit!
- Tax Refunds: Some major convenience stores in tourist areas (like Myeongdong or Hongdae) offer Immediate Tax Refunds for foreigners if you spend over 15,000 KRW. Don’t forget your passport!
Which one are you trying first?
Korean convenience stores are a world of their own, full of colors, flavors, and surprises. I personally think the Chestnut Tiramisu is a life-changer!
A certified Korean chef and baker. Min shares authentic tastes of Korea, from hidden local gems to traditional recipes and everyday lifestyle.