Daum1boon

Convenience stores and mini-marts are EVERYWHERE in Korea. But don’t walk in and expect to find the same Flamin’ Hot Cheetos and Big Gulp you would in North America. Korean mini-marts definitely have their own distinctive flavors. 

Here are some unique-to-Korea treats you can find at the 7-Eleven or mini-mart!

Skewered sausages and Asian-style fish cakes on a stick are plentiful in Korean convenience stores. Protein on the go! The above sausage has become especially popular for its size (and note the hidden cheese inside!) 

Korea has become famous for its fried chicken, and, yep, you can even get it at a 7-Eleven! This set comes with fried chicken in a spicy glaze and a side of melted cheese for dipping or smothering. 

The ULTIMATE and original Korean fast food. Kimbap is especially popular with students: it’s cheap and easy to carry to class, the library, etc. Kimbap is traditionally filled with mostly vegetables (and wrapped in rice and seaweed, similar to sushi), but the 7-Eleven kimbaps continue to evolve with steak, tuna, even pizza-style fillings. 

If you haven’t had mango bingsu, a sweet shaved-ice treat topped with chunks of juicy mango, dessert heaven is waiting for you. At the Korean convenience stores you can get a variety of compact mango bingsu-inspired treats. Healthier mango popsicles made of all-fruit, and mango and cream mystery mixtures like the one pictured above. YUM. 

This list would not be complete without instant noodles. In some convenience stores, you will find an ENTIRE AISLE of instant noodles. You can find all types of noodles and an array of flavors. Ramen is certainly the most popular, but there’s udon and instant pasta, too. In most stores, you can make the noodles to eat right there. Another classic student meal.