Budget coffee chains in South Korea are rapidly evolving into convenient meal platforms. Mega MGC Coffee recently drew attention after selling 2.2 million items from its new summer menu within two weeks of launch, highlighting changing consumer trends in the cafe industry.
The company’s success comes as rising prices increase demand for affordable dining options. Luxury hotel bingsu prices have climbed above 100,000 won, sparking intense price debates among consumers. In contrast, Mega MGC Coffee’s 4,400-won single-serving bingsu became highly popular, selling more than 1 million cups. A savory menu item, “MGC’s Sausage Kimchi Fried Rice,” is another surprising hit, selling more than 7,000 servings daily and attracting 7.4 million views on social media.
Industry experts say budget cafes are increasingly adding foods such as bagels, tteokbokki, and fried rice to their menus to compete with convenience stores and fast-food restaurants. Instead of focusing solely on cheap Americanos, many coffee chains now offer seasonal desserts, meals, and lifestyle products to attract customers seeking affordable and convenient dining experiences.
J.K. Park Senior Reporter junior/1781138635/1613367801
1. How many summer menu items were sold quickly?
2. What is the price of the single-serving bingsu?
3. How many servings of fried rice sell daily?
4. Which menu item became a big hit online?
1. Why do people prefer cheap cafe food options?
2. Would you buy full meals at a cafe?
3. Why are budget cafes expanding into meal platforms?
4. How do rising food prices affect your family?
Budget coffee chains in South Korea are rapidly evolving into convenient meal platforms. Mega MGC Coffee recently drew attention after selling 2.2 million items from its new summer menu within two weeks of launch, highlighting changing consumer trends in the cafe industry.
