Amanda LimIf you think Korean convenience stores are just about instant noodles and drinks, think again. These little shops have become hot spaces for food creativity, filled with surprising snacks and treats that often go viral on social media.
Korean convenience stores offer a fun and delicious way to discover what’s trending on the Korean food scene. Here’s a list of the coolest and tastiest convenience-store foods you shouldn’t miss in 2025.
Also read: A Guide to Regional Food in South Korea: Iconic Local Dishes You Should Eat in Each City
The ex-boyfriend toast
Image credit: Photo By: Kaboompics.com via Canva Pro
The ex-boyfriend toast started as a viral story when a woman messaged her ex asking for the recipe of a toast he used to make her. He kindly shared the recipe, and when she posted their chat online, it quickly caught fire across social media, and recently blew up again.
The toast is unique but surprisingly good: thick bread toasted and spread with cream cheese and blueberry jam, then briefly warmed to melt the toppings together. It’s an easy snack to make yourself using convenience store ingredients, perfect for a fun late-night treat.
Fusion & street food kits
Image credit: Yopokki Official Website
Korean convenience stores are masters of taking classic street foods and turning them into quick, ready-to-eat kits. The ever-popular tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) comes in all sorts of flavours now: cheese, creamy carbonara, and rose sauce versions. These come in convenient cups that you can microwave right in the store.
Plus, you might also spot renditions of food trends like chocolate bars inspired by Dubai chocolate, with unique flavours and premium ingredients.
Whipped-cream & melon-cream breads
Image credit: Wooltari Official Website
Soft breads with creamy fillings have become social media darlings. Among the favourites is the Yonsei milk cream bread, filled with rich, smooth milk cream that melts in your mouth. Another popular option is the Greek yoghurt whipped-cream bread, which blends airy whipped cream with a tangy yoghurt twist for a refreshing balance.
For a summery flavour, the melon-cream bread offers a fragrant, fruity filling wrapped in soft bread. Perfect for a quick, Instagram-worthy snack that’s light but indulgent.
Mini snacks
Image credit: bibigo PH Official Facebook
The trend for bite-sized snacks continues with mini packs of bibigo’s mini-wontons, mini bungeoppang pastries filled with red bean or custard, and healthy crisps made from peas or mushrooms.
These small portions are great for tasting different snacks without committing to a full bag or sharing with friends. They’re also easy to carry around as quick snacks during a day out.
DIY iced drinks
Image credit: kto_singapore Official Instagram
Summer months see a surge in DIY iced drinks. Many convenience stores provide ice cups alongside cold brew coffees, banana milk, and other drinks so you can mix your own combinations.
The classic banana milk and iced coffee pairing remains a fan favourite; creamy, refreshing and easy to make on the spot. Some stores even have iced latte kits and flavoured syrups for further customisation.
Yakult-style gummies
Image credit: Arcaera Official Facebook
These gummies, shaped like little Yakult bottles, have a soft, chewy texture and tangy yoghurt flavour. A popular choice among young people, they’re often eaten chilled for a firmer, more refreshing bite. Their portable packs make them a handy sweet treat to enjoy on the go.
Insect snacks & skewers
Image credit: Sarang Mart Korean Grocery – Marikina Branch Official Facebook
For the adventurous eater, some convenience stores still sell beondegi, silkworm pupae that are steamed or boiled and seasoned, a traditional Korean snack with a nutty, earthy flavour.
Image credit: Kawisara Kaewprasert via Canva Pro
If that’s too daring, try the milder sotteok sotteok, skewers of chewy rice cake and sausage, a popular street food adapted for convenience-store shelves. Both offer a taste of authentic Korean snacking culture.
Celebrity Bento Boxes
Image credit: kto_singapore Official Instagram
Many stores collaborate with well-known Korean chefs like Baek Jong-won and actress Kim Hye-ja to create dosirak, lunchbox-style meals featuring rice, meat or fish, and traditional side dishes like kimchi and pickled vegetables.
These meals are designed to feel home-cooked but are ready in minutes, perfect for busy workers or travellers who want a balanced, satisfying meal on the go.
More than worth the visit
Korean convenience stores are far more than simple pit stops. They offer a unique window into Korea’s vibrant food culture, mixing comfort, creativity and convenience in surprising ways. Next time you find yourself wandering a Korean convenience store, make sure to try a few of these viral hits. Your taste buds will thank you!
