Korean ice cream at Seoul convenience stores: What to buy

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Korean Ice Cream Bar & Cup Guide: Sweetest Finds

Annyeong, K-food fans! Your resident Seoul-ite here, fresh off another trip to the GS25 downstairs. Today, we’re diving headfirst into one of my favorite categories: Korean ice cream! Forget everything you thought you knew about frozen treats, because Korean convenience stores are a treasure trove of unique, delicious, and sometimes downright quirky ice cream bars and cups that will completely change your dessert game. From classic fruit flavors to surprising red bean delights, and even a few soda-inspired slushies, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re cooling down on a sweltering Seoul summer day or just craving a sweet pick-me-up, these treats are a staple for Koreans, and for good reason. Let’s break down some of the best, so you know exactly what to grab on your next Korean adventure or at your local H Mart!

The Sweetest Finds: A Deep Dive into Korean Ice Creams

1. Melona (Binggrae) – The Iconic Melon Dream

Let’s kick things off with a true legend: Melona. If you’ve ever seen Korean ice cream, chances are you’ve seen this bright green bar. It’s a classic for a reason. I grab one of these almost weekly, especially when the humidity hits.

• Taste: Imagine the most perfectly ripe, sweet honeydew melon, creamy and just a little milky. It’s a distinct flavor that’s hard to replicate and utterly refreshing. Binggrae also offers strawberry, banana, mango, and even taro versions, but the melon is the OG and still the best, in my humble opinion.
• Texture: Smooth, creamy, almost like a solidified smoothie, but without any iciness. It melts beautifully in your mouth.
• Spice Level: Zero. This is pure, unadulterated sweet melon bliss.
• How Koreans Eat It: Straight out of the wrapper, usually on the go or as a simple dessert after a meal. Kids absolutely adore it, but it’s a nostalgic treat for adults too. Sometimes, people will cut it into cubes and float it in a bowl of milk or soda for a more elaborate dessert.
• Price: Typically around 1,000-1,500 won, though prices vary by store and promotions.

2. Samanco (Binggrae) – The Fish-Shaped Delight

Don’t be scared by the fish shape – Samanco is a beloved classic that offers a delightful surprise inside!

• Taste: This isn’t a fish flavor, I promise! It’s a vanilla ice cream sandwich with a layer of sweet red bean paste, all encased in a soft, waffle-like fish-shaped ‘shell.’ The combination of creamy vanilla and earthy, sweet red bean is surprisingly harmonious. They also have a green tea version, which is also excellent.
• Texture: The ‘fish’ exterior is soft and slightly chewy, similar to a waffle cone but more pliable. The ice cream is rich and creamy, while the red bean paste is smooth and dense.
• Spice Level: Absolutely none. Just sweet, comforting flavors.
• How Koreans Eat It: It’s a popular choice for a substantial snack or dessert. You bite into the fish’s head first, naturally! It’s a fun shape that makes it popular with kids, but plenty of adults love its unique flavor profile.
• Price: Around 1,500-2,000 won.

3. Screw Bar (Lotte) – The Twisted Apple Treat

Lotte’s Screw Bar is a fun, spiraled ice pop that’s a true classic for anyone who grew up in Korea or visited in the summer.

• Taste: Primarily a sweet and tangy apple flavor, with a hint of strawberry on the very tip. It’s refreshing, fruity, and distinctly artificial in a way that just works perfectly for a frozen treat. It reminds me of those old-school fruit-flavored popsicles, but with a unique twist.
• Texture: It’s an ice pop, so it’s icy and firm, but not overly hard. The twist makes it satisfying to bite into, and it melts slowly, allowing you to enjoy it for a while.
• Spice Level: Zero. It’s a pure fruit-flavored popsicle.
• How Koreans Eat It: Kids and adults alike enjoy twisting and biting their way down this fun bar. Some people like to squeeze the melted part at the bottom and drink it, almost like a slushie.
• Price: Often one of the more affordable options, usually around 800-1,200 won.

4. Jaws Bar (Lotte) – The Shark Attack

Another iconic Lotte creation, the Jaws Bar is instantly recognizable by its shark fin shape and dark color.

• Taste: Don’t let the menacing appearance fool you. It’s a vibrant orange-flavored ice cream covered in a thin, slightly chewy layer of strawberry-flavored ice. It’s sweet, citrusy, and surprisingly addictive. The strawberry coating gives it an extra dimension.
• Texture: The outer layer is a firm, slightly gummy ice, while the inside is a softer, creamier orange ice cream. It’s a delightful contrast.
• Spice Level: Absolutely no spice, just fruity sweetness.
• How Koreans Eat It: People usually start by biting off the ‘fin’ and then work their way down. It’s a playful treat perfect for a hot day.
• Price: Similar to Screw Bar, around 800-1,200 won.

5. Pangto (Lotte) – The Round Ice Cream Sandwich

Pangto is Korea’s answer to the classic ice cream sandwich, but with its own unique charm.

• Taste: It’s a simple, comforting vanilla ice cream sandwiched between two soft, slightly sweet cookies. The magic is in the ratio and the texture of the cookies. It’s not overly complex, but it hits the spot perfectly when you’re craving a classic. They also have chocolate versions!
• Texture: The cookies are soft and slightly crumbly, not hard or brittle like some Western ice cream sandwiches. The ice cream itself is creamy and melts just right.
• Spice Level: None whatsoever. Just pure, delightful dessert.
• How Koreans Eat It: This is a no-fuss dessert. You just peel off the wrapper and enjoy. It’s a popular after-school snack for kids and a quick pick-me-up for adults.
• Price: Around 1,500-2,000 won.

6. Power Cap (Lotte) – The Soda Slushie Experience

Moving into the cup section, Power Cap is a childhood favorite for many, including me. It’s less ‘ice cream’ and more ‘frozen soda slushie.’

• Taste: Imagine a super fizzy, sweet grape soda, but frozen into a delightful slush. It’s intensely sweet, tangy, and leaves a fun, tingling sensation from the soda flavor. They also have a classic cola flavor, which is equally nostalgic.
• Texture: It’s a true slushie – finely crushed ice crystals suspended in a sugary liquid, perfect for scooping or sucking through a straw. It gets softer as it melts.
• Spice Level: Zero. This is pure sugary, fizzy refreshment.
• How Koreans Eat It: You can eat it with the small plastic spoon provided, or for a real throwback, let it melt a little and then squeeze the cup to slurp it down. It’s the ultimate thirst quencher on a hot day.
• Price: Around 1,000-1,500 won.

7. Tank Boy (Haitai) – The Pear Juice Slush

Another classic slushie in a squeezable pouch, Tank Boy is famous for its unique pear flavor.

• Taste: It tastes exactly like Korean pear juice (배즙 – bae-jeup), which is distinctively sweet, slightly floral, and incredibly refreshing. It’s a natural, light sweetness that isn’t cloying, making it a perfect palate cleanser.
• Texture: Like Power Cap, it’s a slushie. It’s icy and smooth, softening as you eat it. The pouch makes it easy to squeeze out every last drop.
• Spice Level: None at all. Just crisp, sweet pear.
• How Koreans Eat It: Squeeze and slurp! Many Koreans will leave it out for a few minutes to soften up before enjoying it. It’s a go-to for many, especially after a spicy meal, as the pear flavor is known to soothe the stomach.
• Price: Around 1,000-1,500 won.

8. B-B-Big (Binggrae) – The Red Bean Bar

For those brave enough to venture beyond the usual fruity and creamy flavors, B-B-Big offers a truly traditional Korean taste.

• Taste: This bar is made predominantly of sweet red bean paste (팥, pat), mixed with some ice to create a solid bar. It has an earthy, subtly sweet flavor that might be an acquired taste for some, but it’s deeply comforting and authentic. You’ll find actual red bean pieces in it!
• Texture: It’s dense and slightly pasty due to the red bean, yet still icy and melts slowly. The small bits of red bean add a pleasant chewiness.
• Spice Level: Zero. This is a traditional sweet.
• How Koreans Eat It: It’s a classic summer treat for all ages, especially popular among older generations who grew up with red bean desserts. It’s perfect for those who enjoy the unique sweetness of red bean, often found in traditional Korean rice cakes (tteok) or shaved ice (patbingsu).
• Price: Around 800-1,200 won.

9. World Cone (Lotte) – The Global Standard, Korean Style

The World Cone is Lotte’s answer to the classic ice cream cone, but it holds its own against any international counterpart.

• Taste: Typically a rich vanilla or chocolate ice cream, often with a swirl of chocolate fudge or nuts on top. It’s a straightforward, satisfying flavor that appeals to pretty much everyone. The waffle cone is usually fresh and crunchy.
• Texture: Creamy, smooth ice cream with a delightful crunch from the cone and the chocolate/nut topping. The best part is the little bit of chocolate at the very bottom of the cone, a satisfying end to the treat.
• Spice Level: None. Just pure, delightful ice cream.
• How Koreans Eat It: It’s a universal pleasure – just unwrap and enjoy! It’s a popular choice from convenience store freezers to supermarket aisles, perfect for a quick and easy dessert.
• Price: Around 1,500-2,000 won.

How to Get Korean Ice Cream Abroad

Good news, K-food fans! Many of these iconic Korean ice creams are making their way to international markets. Here’s where you can usually find them:

• H Mart & Other Korean Supermarkets: Your absolute best bet. These stores typically have a dedicated freezer section for Korean ice creams, often carrying Melona, Samanco, Screw Bar, and Jaws Bar.
• Local Asian Markets: Check your local Chinese, Japanese, or general Asian grocery stores. Many stock popular Korean brands due to their widespread appeal.
• Amazon/Online Retailers: While not as common for frozen goods due to shipping challenges, some specialty online K-food retailers might offer bundles or dry ice shipping for certain popular items. Always check reviews for cold chain reliability.

Availability and specific flavors will vary, so keep an eye out and ask your local store manager if you don’t see your favorite!

Verdict

Korean ice cream is a vibrant, exciting world of flavors and textures, far beyond just vanilla and chocolate. From the creamy fruitiness of Melona to the comforting tradition of Samanco and B-B-Big, there’s a frozen delight for every palate. My personal recommendation for a first-timer is definitely **Melona** – it’s iconic, approachable, and truly delicious. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, grab a **Samanco** for that delightful red bean surprise. Each of these treats offers a unique window into Korean snack culture, providing a refreshing escape with every bite. So next time you’re craving something sweet and cold, venture into the world of Korean ice cream!

Overall Score: 9/10 – For variety, unique flavors, and pure refreshing joy!

FAQ

Are Korean ice creams very sweet?

Yes, most Korean ice creams, like many desserts, tend to be on the sweeter side. However, the sweetness is often balanced with fruit flavors (like in Melona or Tank Boy) or traditional ingredients (like red bean in B-B-Big) that prevent them from being overwhelmingly sugary.

Are there any spicy Korean ice creams?

While spicy flavors are prevalent in many Korean snacks and dishes, traditionally popular Korean ice creams are almost exclusively sweet. You won’t find any ‘Buldak Ice Cream’ in your average convenience store freezer! These are purely for cooling down and satisfying your sweet tooth.

What is the most popular Korean ice cream bar?

Without a doubt, Melona holds the crown for the most popular and recognizable Korean ice cream bar, both domestically and internationally. Its distinct melon flavor and creamy texture have made it a global favorite, though Samanco and Screw Bar are also incredibly popular and widely loved.

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