A Guide to Korean RTD Coffee

By Joybuy Product Recommendation OfficerDate: 2026-07-04

The demand for quick and convenient on-the-go coffee is on the rise. Korean ready-to-drink (RTD) coffee, in particular, is gaining popularity for its variety and practical packaging. Whether you need an invigorating start to your day, a refreshing afternoon pick-me-up, or an authentic taste experience for fans of Korean culture, the selection is vast.

This article serves as your guide. We'll introduce various types of ready-to-drink coffee from Korea and provide practical tips to help you choose the perfect product. Our goal is to empower you to make an informed decision based on objective product features.

Buyer's Guide: What to Look for When Choosing

To find the right Korean RTD coffee for you, a few criteria can help guide your decision. The following points provide a foundation for your selection.

1. Coffee Type and Flavour Profile

Korean ready-to-drink coffees offer a wide spectrum of flavours. The base is often an Americano, which has a strong taste from diluting espresso with water. From there, numerous variations exist:

• Black Americano: The purest form, with no sugar or milk. Ideal for coffee lovers who prefer a clean, unadulterated coffee taste.
• Vanilla Americano: A popular twist where a sweet note of vanilla is added to the Americano. This creates a milder and more aromatic experience.
• Caramel Macchiato: A creamier and sweeter option that combines espresso with milk and caramel syrup. This coffee beverage is more like a dessert and is perfect for those who enjoy sweet coffee specialities.

2. Packaging Format: Bottle or Pouch?

A characteristic feature of iced coffee from Korea is its packaging. The choice between a bottle and a pouch depends on personal preference and intended use.

• Bottles: Often resealable and sturdy, they are well-suited for sipping throughout the day.
• Pouch Coffee: This packaging is lightweight, flexible, and space-saving. It's ideal for quick enjoyment on the go, as it can be easily carried in a bag. The contents are typically poured directly into a glass filled with ice.

3. Ingredients and Nutritional Information

It's always a good idea to check the ingredient list and nutrition facts. Pay attention to the sugar content, especially if you prefer a less sweet option. Information on calories, fat, and the presence of milk or other allergens are also important for finding a product that fits your dietary habits.

Our Selection of Korean RTD Coffee

Based on the criteria above, here is a selection of products that cater to different flavour profiles and needs.

Jardin Signature Americano Black 230ml

Why It Stands Out The Jardin Signature Americano Black focuses on the essentials: the pure taste of roasted coffee beans. With no added sugar or milk, this beverage offers an intense and authentic Americano experience.

Pros

• Pure Coffee Flavour: Made from 100% roasted coffee beans for a robust aroma.
• Sugar-Free and Fat-Free: According to the manufacturer, the drink contains 0 g of sugar and 0 g of fat.
• Low-Calorie: At an estimated 10 kcal per 100 ml, it's a light option for coffee enjoyment.
• Convenient Bottle: The 230 ml bottle is sturdy and practical for on-the-go consumption.

Who Is It For? This product is aimed at coffee purists who appreciate a strong, unsweetened black coffee. It's also an excellent choice for individuals monitoring their sugar or calorie intake.

Caffe Bene Vanilla Flavor Americano Pouch 190ml

Why It Stands Out Caffe Bene, a well-known Korean coffeehouse chain, delivers a harmonious balance of bold espresso and sweet vanilla in this product. The convenient pouch makes it an ideal companion for a refreshing break.

Pros

• Balanced Flavour: The combination of espresso extract and vanilla flavouring creates a mild yet aromatic coffee experience.
• Low in Calories: One serving (190 ml) contains only 50 calories, according to the manufacturer.
• Convenient Pouch Packaging: The pouch is lightweight and perfect for on-the-go enjoyment, best served chilled or over ice.
• Authentic Brand: A product from Caffe Bene, a name that stands for quality in the Korean coffee market.

Who Is It For? Ideal for anyone who enjoys flavoured coffee and is looking for a sweet yet light refreshment. Fans of Korean iced coffee and the Caffe Bene brand will find what they're looking for here.

Caffe Bene Caramel Macchiato Pouch 190ml

Why It Stands Out This Caramel Macchiato in a pouch brings the café experience directly to you. The blend of espresso, 20% milk, and caramel syrup creates a rich and creamy coffee drink reminiscent of a liquid dessert.

Pros

• Creamy and Sweet: The combination of milk and caramel provides a full-bodied texture and a sweet taste.
• Contains Milk: Offers an authentic macchiato experience compared to black coffee variants.
• Easy to Prepare: Simply shake well and pour over ice for a quick, chilled treat.
• Dessert-Like Quality: A great choice for an indulgent break or as an alternative to dessert.

Who Is It For? This beverage is designed for lovers of sweet and creamy coffee specialities. Anyone who appreciates a café-style Caramel Macchiato will find this a convenient ready-to-drink solution.

Looking for an Alternative?

If you're seeking a change from coffee or prefer a caffeine-free option for the evening, a high-quality cocoa beverage could be an interesting choice. These also offer a rich and comforting experience.

? Explore our selection of premium cocoa beverages here

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How do you prepare Korean iced coffee from a pouch? Preparation is straightforward. Shake the pouch well to mix the ingredients. Then, you can pour the contents directly into a glass filled with ice cubes for a refreshing iced coffee. Alternatively, the drink can be enjoyed well-chilled directly from the pouch.

2. Where can you buy authentic Korean coffee? If you want to buy Korean coffee, online platforms specialising in Asian food and beverages are a great place to start. They often offer a curated selection of products imported directly from South Korea that may not be available in local supermarkets.

3. Is ready-to-drink coffee from Korea very sweet? The flavour profile varies greatly by product. There are unsweetened options like the Jardin Signature Americano Black, as well as very sweet choices like the Caffe Bene Caramel Macchiato. It's advisable to check the nutrition facts on the packaging, especially the sugar content per 100 ml, to get an idea of the drink's sweetness.