Dalgona Coffee Craze: A Global Sensation Sparked by South Korean Reality TV

Few culinary trends capture the zeitgeist quite like the Dalgona Coffee craze that swept the globe in early 2020. This seemingly simple concoction of whipped coffee, milk, and sugar became a social media phenomenon, inspiring countless home baristas and fueling an unexpected surge in instant coffee sales. But what sparked this global obsession? The answer lies not in some sophisticated marketing campaign, but rather in the unlikely setting of a South Korean reality TV show.

In episode 4 of the Netflix series “Squid Game,” contestants are tasked with making dalgona candy, a traditional honeycomb toffee treat popular in Korea. While attempting to carve shapes out of the brittle confection, one contestant remarks on its similarity to whipped coffee, sparking a lightbulb moment for viewers worldwide. Within weeks, videos and tutorials demonstrating the surprisingly easy method for creating this frothy delight flooded social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

The simplicity of the Dalgona Coffee recipe – requiring only instant coffee, sugar, hot water, and milk – played a crucial role in its widespread adoption. With most households already possessing these ingredients, anyone could recreate this cafe-quality treat from the comfort of their own kitchen. This accessibility, coupled with the visually appealing nature of the whipped coffee topping, transformed Dalgona Coffee into an instant Instagram sensation.

The trend’s timing also proved fortuitous. As the world grappled with lockdowns and social distancing measures imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, people sought solace in simple pleasures and novel experiences. Dalgona Coffee provided a welcome distraction, offering a sense of accomplishment and creativity during a time marked by uncertainty and isolation.

From Screen to Spoon: The Evolution of Dalgona Coffee

Dalgona coffee’s origins trace back to Macau, where it was first concocted as “Coffee Whipped Cream” in the 1980s. However, its rise to global fame can be directly attributed to the “Squid Game” episode and the subsequent social media frenzy.

Here’s a timeline illustrating Dalgona Coffee’s meteoric rise:

While the initial craze may have subsided, Dalgona Coffee remains a popular choice for those seeking a quick and indulgent caffeine fix. Its enduring appeal lies in its simplicity, versatility, and the nostalgic connection to a beloved childhood treat.

Beyond the Beverage: Cultural Impact of Dalgona Coffee

Dalgona Coffee’s impact extended beyond the culinary sphere. It sparked conversations about cultural exchange, the power of social media trends, and the global appetite for novel experiences.

• Cultural Exchange: Dalgona coffee brought attention to a traditional Korean treat, dalgona candy, introducing it to a worldwide audience.

• Social Media Power: The trend demonstrated the immense influence of social media platforms in shaping cultural phenomena and consumer behavior.

• Global Curiosity: Dalgona Coffee’s popularity tapped into a universal desire for new and exciting experiences, particularly during times of stress and confinement.

The Lasting Legacy of a Whipped Delight

Although the initial hype surrounding Dalgona Coffee may have subsided, its impact on culinary trends and social media remains undeniable. The drink’s simplicity, visual appeal, and nostalgic connection resonated with people worldwide, sparking creativity and fostering a sense of global community during a challenging time.

The story of Dalgona Coffee serves as a reminder of the unexpected ways in which cultural phenomena can emerge and transcend borders. It highlights the power of shared experiences, the allure of novelty, and the enduring human fascination with transforming everyday ingredients into something extraordinary.