5+ Easy Korean Words For Coffee

Planning to visit Korea? Well, if you’re anything like most of us, a steaming cup of invigorating coffee is likely on your list of to-dos. Now, what if I told you that we were going to crack open the lingual lid of that cuppa joe? Yes, we’re plunging deeper into the enriching world of language with Korean words for coffee in this comprehensive guide!

Many of us share a universal affection for that all-important, day-starting, mood-lifting brew. For me, coffee or 커피(Keo-pi) links people from all corners of the world, and like any global phenomenon, it spins a web of linguistic diversity. When it comes to Korea—one of the world’s top-notch coffee-consuming nations—the language behind the beloved brown liquid offers an intriguing insight into the culture. It might surprise you to know that their most common term for our mutual morning savior isn’t a native word but a splendid case of tongue-tip gymnastics played on an English melody.

Ready to learn more about it? Strap in, cafe aficionados and language enthusiasts, we’re embarking on a flavorful journey to explore the Korean words that shape coffee’s identity in the Land of Morning Calm. Let’s begin!

What Is Coffee In Korean?

In Korean, our dear old friend Coffee is straightforwardly introduced as “커피” (Keopi). As you may have already guessed, this isn’t a term dug out from the majestic trenches of the Korean language history. Oh, no! It’s a nimble adaptation of the English word “coffee,” serving proof of language adapting just as quickly as our taste buds do.

Are you craving a full-bodied beverage that packs a punch? “에스프레소” (Eseupeureso, read as Espresso) will add that high-octane fuel to kickstart your day. Or perhaps you are in the mood for a light, fluffy concoction? “라떼” (Latte, pronounced just as it reads) it is! And when winter chills start nipping at your fingers, grab a “핫초코” (Hot Choco) – a heartwarming local favorite.

Once you step inside a Korean cafe, you’re entering a world that reflects Korea’s multifaceted society. There are high-end “로스터리” (Roseuteori – roasteries) featuring beans from around the globe, cutesy themed cafes that feel right out of a comic book, and minimalist spaces that mirror the clean lines of contemporary Korean design. Each cafe cultivates an ambiance that suits every disposition and every occasion—be it a casual meet-up with friends, a date, or a tranquil setting to pen down a poem.

Today, Koreans have integrated coffee into the very essence of their social culture. The phrase “커피 한 잔 할까요?” (Keopi han jan halkkayo?) or ‘Shall we have a cup of coffee?’ is not only an invitation to share a drink but also to share stories, laughter, or even silence. It’s the centerpiece around which revolve conversations, first meetings, or business discussions.

Korean Words For Coffee Types

When we promised to plunge into the world of coffee in Korean, we weren’t just whistling past the coffee farm! Let’s shake out the coffee bag and look at some of the different types of coffee you’ll encounter in Korea.

The Robust “에스프레소” (Eseupeureso)

Let’s start with the backbone of all great coffee beverages—the ever-intense, coffee-in-its-purest-form “에스프레소” (read as ‘Espresso’). Whether you’re taking bold sips straight up or using it as a base for other heavenly brews, this strong player is not for the faint-hearted.

The Perfectly Balanced “아메리카노” (Ame-ri-ka-no)

Follow the Korean coffee-loving crowd, and you’d probably land straight into the arms of an “아메리카노” (Ame-ri-ka-no). This Korean equivalent to the American classic brew is an everyday pick-me-up, loved for its balancing act of bitterness and smoothness.

The Delicate “라떼” (Latte)

If you’re in the mood for something lighter and frothier, the “라떼” (pronounced ‘Latte’) made with steamed milk and a shot of “에스프레소” might be your natural selection. A delightful Korean café menu regular for a dolce vita vibe.

The Sweetly Indulgent “카푸치노” (Kapuchino)

Korea too has caught the cappuccino fever with their own version, “카푸치노.” This marriage of “에스프레소,” steamed milk, and a lavish cloud of froth, finished off with a dusting of cocoa or cinnamon powder, is indeed a cup of happiness.

The Comforting “핫초코” (Hot Choco)

Getting too cold? Snuggle up with a mug of “핫초코” (pronounced ‘Hot choco’). This non-caffeinated show-stealer is a beloved companion during those freezing Korean winters.

The “Something Different” – “아포가토” (Apogato)

An unexpected twist is the “아포가토” (Apogato), a delightful marriage of a shot of hot “에스프레소” (Espresso) and a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. This dessert-cum-coffee is the literal icing on the coffee menu and a different kind of Korean summer treat.

The Artist’s Choice – “플랫 화이트” (Peullaes Hwaiteu)

Enter the world of latte art with the “플랫 화이트” (Peullaes Hwaiteu translated as Flat White). This down-under classic made Korean way involves an “에스프레소” shot topped with microfoam, the tiny bubbles that create those insta-worthy coffee arts.

The Relaxing Pair – “카페 모카” (Ka-pe Moka)

Calling all chocolate lovers! The “카페 모카” (Ka-pe Moka, or Cafe Mocha) adds a touch of sweet cocoa to the otherwise intense “에스프레소,” balancing the taste spectrum gracefully. Perfect for when you want some indulgence while staying loyal to your coffee roots.

A Twist On Classic – “바닐라라떼” (Banillarate)

For an exciting twist to the classic latte, try the “바닐라라떼” (Banillarate or Vanilla Latte), a sweet homage to the timeless “라떼” with a cheeky note of vanilla. It’s a comforting choice for those chilly days and a favorite among sweet-toothed caffeine enthusiasts.

Coffee’s Creamy Cousin – “카페 오레” (Ka-pe Ore)

Finish your coffee exploration with a French twist—the “카페 오레” (Ka-pe Ore), known globally as Cafe au Lait. This simple and delicious mix of equal parts steamed milk and strong coffee can be your lovely morning partner or a late-night friend.

Terminologies Related To Korean Coffee Shops

Want to impress your friends? It’s not enough that you know the Korean coffee culture! You also need to be well-versed with the common terminologies for the items you’ll find inside a Korean coffee shop. To help you out in this aspect, we rounded up below the best words!

What Is A Barista Called In A Korean Cafe?

In a Korean café, the coffee wizard whipping up your caffeine-filled potions is typically known as a 바리스타 (barista). Mind-blown, right? Here, the term “barista” is borrowed from Western culture and romanized into Korean script (Hangul). So, while it may sound familiar once you work your way through the Korean pronunciation, the shock of the familiar resonates across language barriers.

Want to speak with your barista? If yes, try out these Korean phrases:

저는 아메리카노 한 잔 주세요.

Pronunciation: Jeoneun amelikano han jan juseyo!

Lace up your confidence shoes and try this simple sentence when ordering an Americano at a Korean cafe. The English translation becomes, “Can I get an Americano, please?” This is a classic choice for caffeine lovers across the world. It’s short, sweet, and straight to the caffeinated point.

당신의 가장 인기 있는 커피는 무엇입니까?

Pronunciation: Dangsin-ui gajang ingi issneun keopineun mueos-ibnikka?

Unfurl your adventurous wings and ask the barista for their most popular coffee. In English, this translates to “What is your most popular coffee?” Surprise yourself with the barista’s choice, as you get to try something new and popular.

이 체리 모카 카푸치노는 정말 맛있어요!

Pronunciation: I cheli moka kapuchinoneun jeongmal mas-iss-eoyo!

Treat your senses with a cherry mocha latter, then compliment your barista in Korean: “This cherry mocha cappuccino is really delicious!” Provide some cheer along with your order – a great way to add a sprinkle of positivity to their day!

Learn Korean With Ling

And there you have it, caffeine radicals! You’ve not only gained valuable insights into Korean coffee culture, but you’ve also learned enough lingo to charm your way to the perfect cup of Joe in any Korean “카페” (Ka-pe – Cafe). We won’t just call you coffee lovers anymore; you’re now part of an exclusive group—Coffee Linguists. Sound fancy enough? We think so too!

But the journey doesn’t stop at a cafe countertop. If this taste of language learning has ignited an unquenchable flame in you, why not take it one step further? The Ling app is your perfect partner in this quest. Learn Korean with amusing bite-sized lessons. From ‘hello’ to ‘goodbye,’ from ordering food to navigating the city, equip yourself with the language skills necessary to soak in all that Korea has to offer fully.

Download the Ling app today from the App Store or Play Store to get started!