Popular Lattes in South Korea

South Korea has a thriving café culture, with trendy coffee shops on almost every street. From iced Americanos (even in winter!) to sweet, creamy lattes, here’s a look at some of the most popular beverages in Korea.

1. Iced Americano (아이스 아메리카노, « AA »)

Koreans have an undeniable love for iced Americanos, often referred to as “AA” (short for “Ice Americano”). Unlike in many countries where people switch to hot coffee in winter, Koreans drink iced Americanos all year round—even in freezing temperatures. The drink is simple: espresso shots poured over ice and water, creating a strong, refreshing beverage.

Why is it so popular? Many Koreans prefer coffee that is strong, low in calories, and easy to drink throughout the day. Plus, it’s a favorite of busy office workers and students who need a caffeine boost without the heaviness of milk-based drinks.

2. Vanilla Latte (바닐라 라떼)

For those who enjoy their coffee with a bit of sweetness, vanilla lattes are a top choice. Made with espresso, steamed milk, and vanilla syrup, this drink has a smooth, creamy texture and a deliciously sweet aroma. It’s a staple at nearly every café, appealing to those who like a balance between the richness of coffee and the comforting sweetness of vanilla.

3. Caramel Macchiato (카라멜 마키아토)

Similar to the vanilla latte, the caramel macchiato is another crowd-pleaser. It features the same espresso and steamed milk base but is enhanced with caramel syrup and sometimes topped with caramel drizzle. This drink is perfect for those who enjoy a hint of indulgence with their coffee. Many Korean cafés also offer iced caramel macchiatos, making it a great option for summer (or for those who love cold drinks year-round, just like with iced Americanos).

4. Einspänner (아인슈패너)

A rising star in Korea’s café scene, the Einspänner is a Viennese-style coffee that has gained a loyal following. It consists of a hot espresso or americano base, topped with a thick layer of lightly sweetened whipped cream.

5. Sweet Potato Latte (고구마 라떼)

One of the most unique drinks in Korea is the sweet potato latte. Unlike traditional lattes, this one contains no coffee—just steamed milk blended with roasted sweet potato puree. The result? A naturally sweet, creamy, and slightly nutty beverage that’s both delicious and comforting. It’s especially popular in fall and winter when Koreans crave warm, cozy drinks.

6. Matcha Latte (말차 라떼) / Green Tea Latte (녹차 라떼)

For a non-coffee alternative, the matcha latte (also called green tea latte) is a beloved drink among Koreans. Made by whisking finely ground matcha powder with milk (and sometimes a bit of sweetener), this drink has a rich, earthy flavorwith natural bitterness balanced by the creaminess of milk.

What’s the difference between matcha and green tea latte?

• Matcha latte uses high-quality powdered green tea, resulting in a stronger, more vibrant green color and a deep umami flavor.

• Green tea latte is sometimes made using green tea extract or steeped green tea, which is milder and lighter in taste.

Many specialty cafés in Korea serve iced matcha lattes, and some even offer creative variations like matcha Einspänner (with whipped cream on top) or matcha with oat milk for a dairy-free option.

7. Strawberry Latte (딸기 라떼)

A seasonal favorite in winter (did you know that they have a strawberry season in February?), this drink is made with fresh strawberries, milk, and sometimes a bit of syrup. Unlike a traditional latte, it doesn’t contain coffee, making it a great option for those who prefer a fruity, creamy drink.

Which drink have you tried or would you like to try?