Celebrating Favorite Iced Treats of Summer in Seoul, South Korea
Summer in Seoul, South Korea, is a magical season filled with vibrant festivals, outdoor adventures, and, of course, delicious summer treats. When the temperature climbs and the humidity rises, the locals and visitors alike turn to their favorite iced desserts to cool down, refresh, and celebrate the joy of summer. From traditional delights to modern creations, Seoul offers a rich variety of frozen wonders to satisfy every taste bud. Let’s explore some popular iced treats and where to enjoy them while experiencing a magical summer in the city.
1. Patbingsu: The King of Korean Summer Desserts
Patbingsu is not just a dessert; it’s a cultural experience in South Korea. This iconic summer treat consists of finely shaved ice topped with sweet red beans (called “pat”), condensed milk, and chewy rice cakes (tteok). Traditionally, patbingsu was enjoyed in its simpler form, but in recent years, it has evolved into a vibrant dessert overflowing with modern toppings such as fresh fruits, flavored syrups, ice cream, and even cheesecake.
Some popular varieties include mango bingsu, green tea bingsu, and chocolate bingsu. You can find this dessert served in almost every café and dessert shop across Seoul, but one place that stands out is Sulbing, a popular Korean dessert café chain that specializes in creative and luxurious interpretations of bingsu. Their mango cheesecake bingsu is a must-try!
2. Gyeongdan: Korean Rice Cake Delight
If you’re looking for a lesser-known treat, gyeongdan is a sweet rice cake dessert that is often enjoyed chilled during the summer months. These colorful, bite-sized rice cakes are made from glutinous rice flour and rolled in coatings like sweetened red bean paste, roasted soybean powder, or crushed nuts. Though typically served at room temperature, many vendors now offer frozen or refrigerated versions to cater to the summer crowd.
You can find handmade gyeongdan at traditional Korean markets like Gwangjang Market or Namdaemun Market in Seoul. These icy rice treats are not only cooling but also a chance to enjoy authentic Korean cultural flavors.
3. Sweet Melon Ice Bars
Street food vendors in Seoul bring their own creativity to summer with convenient frozen treats like melon ice bars. These bright green popsicles made from sweet cantaloupe or honeydew melon juice are a favorite among locals. You can often spot people enjoying these on hot days while walking along the Han River or exploring the busy streets of Myeongdong.
Melon ice bars—and other frozen snacks—are readily available at convenience stores like GS25 or CU. Their affordable price and refreshing taste make them a top choice for tourists and locals looking for a quick cool-down.
4. Ice Cream Full of Fun
Ice cream is a universal summer favorite, and Seoul’s vibrant ice cream scene proves it. From quirky ice cream shops to unique flavors, finding frozen scoops is always a fun adventure in the city. Some shops specialize in “soft-serve towers,” where massive swirls of creamy, colorful ice cream are served taller than your cup.
One standout spot is Milky Bee in Myeongdong, known for their flower-shaped ice cream cones. These cones come in flavors like rose strawberry and chocolate petals, combining art with taste. Another popular place is Softree, famous for their honeycomb-topped “organic soft serve” ice cream made with high-quality milk.
5. Ice-Cream Mochi: A Tasty Fusion Treat
For those who appreciate innovation, ice-cream mochi is a fusion dessert that’s stealing hearts across Seoul. These bite-sized balls of ice cream are wrapped in a thin layer of chewy mochi dough, creating a perfect blend of creamy and chewy textures. From matcha and strawberry to exotic flavors like yuzu or black sesame, ice-cream mochi offers a refreshing and playful way to enjoy summer.
While many cafés sell these treats, you can pick up pre-packaged ice-cream mochi at department stores in Seoul or specialty shops like Lotte Mart. It’s both portable and perfectly suited for those on the go.
6. Korean Soft Drinks and Slushies
Sometimes, the best iced treats come in liquid form. Korean cafés are famous for their variety of icy beverages, including fruit slushies, bubble tea, and traditional Korean drinks like sujeonggwa (a chilled cinnamon punch) or omija-cha (five-flavor berry tea). These drinks are often blended with ice or served extra cold during summer, making them a great option for staying hydrated while enjoying unique flavors.
Cafés like A Twosome Place or Café Bene offer summer drink menus filled with sweet fruit-blended options like mango or strawberry smoothies. Pair your drink with a small snack, and you’re set to relax and recharge.
Where to Enjoy Summer Treats in Seoul
Seoul is bursting with charm during summer, and there’s no shortage of places to enjoy your favorite iced treats. Here are a few top spots:
- Insadong: A traditional neighborhood that blends Korean culture and art with delicious treats.
- Myeongdong: A lively shopping district packed with dessert cafés and street vendors.
- Han River Park: Perfect for enjoying frozen snacks while walking or biking along the river.
- Bukchon Hanok Village: A picturesque area where you can try traditional desserts while admiring historic architecture.
Conclusion
Summer in Seoul is all about indulging in cool treats while exploring this dynamic and dazzling city. From the classic patbingsu to modern creations like flower-shaped ice cream or chewy ice-cream mochi, there’s an iced dessert for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re strolling through bustling shopping streets, relaxing near the Han River, or wandering through historic alleys, grabbing one of these frozen gems will make your summer experience in Seoul even more delightful. So, get ready to eat, chill, and celebrate the season with South Korea’s vibrant summer treats!
