"Korean-Style Cafes Explode in Popularity in Hong Kong's Fiercely Competitive Market... Here's Why"

Animal and Character Cafes Gain Popularity, Standing in Contrast to Traditional "Cha Chaan Teng"
"Interior Design Plays a Key Role... Customers Want Instagrammable Photos"

Kojicream Corner, a Korean-style cafe located in Hong Kong. Instagram capture

The number of Korean-style cafes in Hong Kong has surged, according to recent findings. This trend is driven by a shift from the traditional 'cha chaan teng' culture-where tea and meals are served together-to cafes featuring upscale interiors and a variety of unique concepts, which are resonating strongly with local young people.

On January 9 (local time), the South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported that Korean-style cafes are making a noticeable rise in Hong Kong’s ever-evolving food and beverage industry. These cafes have established themselves not just as places to drink coffee, but as social hubs, attracting people with immersive themes.

Animal and character-themed cafes, in particular, are gaining popularity. At Korean-style animal cafes, visitors can meet not only cats but also sheep, raccoons, and even meerkats. Character cafes offer food and limited-edition merchandise themed around K-pop idols or popular animation characters.

According to Jasmine Mok, founder of the Korean-style cafe 'House Coffee Club,' how photogenic a cafe is has become a crucial factor. When customers post photos on social media platforms like Instagram and receive widespread engagement, they effectively become brand ambassadors for the cafe.

Jasmine Mok stated, "In Korea, the visual concept of a cafe is the most important element. Coffee comes next," adding, "If a concept is not something people can share together, it is not sustainable in today’s market."

The fact that Hong Kong consumers are highly adept at using social media is also significant. Many people enjoy discovering and sharing photogenic spots as a hobby, making Korean-style cafes with modern, nature-inspired, and other diverse concepts a popular style among Hong Kong residents.

SCMP noted, "Korean cafes tend to offer creative menus, including unique beverages and desserts, making the act of drinking coffee much more than just a simple afternoon pick-me-up."