Winter in South Korea is more than just a season of cold—it’s a season of fascinating contrasts. On a day when the temperature hits -10°C, you might see something puzzling: people dressed in heavy down parkas, yet clutching a cup of iced coffee as if it’s the middle of July.
Welcome to the world of “Eol-juk-ah,” a unique Korean cultural phenomenon. Today, I’ll share the secrets of how locals not only survive the freezing Korean winter but actually embrace it with a mix of icy passion and cozy traditions.
1. Deep Insight: The “Eol-juk-ah” Tribe
If you see someone holding an iced Americano in a blizzard, you’ve just spotted a member of the “Eol-juk-ah” tribe.
- What it means: An abbreviation of a phrase that translates to “Even if I freeze to death, Iced Americano!”
- The Secret: Why do we do this? Part of it is the fast-paced “Ppalli-Ppalli” culture—iced coffee is a quick caffeine shot you can gulp down instantly. Another reason is the Ondol (floor heating) system. Korean indoors are so toasty that once you step inside, you crave that crisp, refreshing chill of an iced drink.
2. Winter’s Golden Treat: Bungeo-ppang
When the wind starts to bite, small street stalls shaped like yellow tents appear on every corner. They sell Bungeo-ppang, a fish-shaped pastry that is the ultimate symbol of winter.
- The Local Pro-tip: Nowadays, locals use a dedicated app called “Ga-seum-sok 3,000-won” (literally: 3,000 won in my chest) to find these hidden stalls. It’s a tradition to keep a few 1,000 won bills in your pocket just in case you run into a vendor.
- The Debate: Are you Team Red Bean (classic) or Team Custard (creamy)? Every Korean has a strong preference!
3. Survival at 40°C: The Jjimjilbang Ritual
When the cold becomes unbearable, we don’t just stay home—we head to the Jjimjilbang (Korean sauna).
- The Experience: Imagine lounging in a heated salt room, wearing a “sheep head” towel. To eat like a true local, you must try Sikhye (sweet rice punch) paired with Maekbanseok eggs (roasted eggs).
- Why it works: It’s not just a spa; it’s a social hub where families and friends gather to defrost their souls.
4. Safety Tip: The Magic of “Hot Packs”
To survive a long day of sightseeing, you need more than just a coat. You need Hot Packs.
- How to use: You can find them at any convenience store for about $1. There are two types: “Shake-to-warm” for your pockets and “Adhesive” to stick onto your inner layer of clothing.
- Warning: Never stick them directly onto your skin! Always place them over a thin shirt to avoid “low-temperature burns.”
[Conclusion]
Korean winter is undoubtedly harsh, but it’s filled with warmth if you know where to look. From the icy determination of the “Eol-juk-ah” crowd to the comforting steam of a Bungeo-ppang stall, there’s a story in every cold breeze.
Next time you’re in Korea during the winter, grab an iced coffee, find a fish-shaped snack, and join us in celebrating the cold!