fruit

The Korean ‘bokbunja’ (복분자), scientifically known as Rubus coreanus, is a species of raspberry native to Korea, Japan, and China. In English, people refer to this berry as the Korean blackberry, Korean bramble, or Korean black raspberry. Learn about this berry here!

The Korean ‘hallabong’ (한라봉) is a variety of citrus developed by the cross-pollination of the Kiyomi orange and Ponkan tangerine. This hybrid fruit is native to Jeju Island and is now the Island’s representative fruit. Learn about this fruit here!

The Schisandra Chinensis, commonly known as the Schisandra vine, magnolia vine, or Chinese magnolia vine, is a variety of plant native to the forests of Northern China, the Russian Far East, and the Korean Peninsula. The berries are commonly known as the schisandra berry, five-flavor fruit, five-flavor berry, magnolia berry, and more. In South Korea, people refer to this fruit solely as ‘omija’ (오미자). Literally, this means ‘five flavors.’ 

In South Korea, people refer to dried persimmon as ‘gotgam’ (곶감). In Korean cuisine, people either consume these dried persimmons as a snack or use them as an ingredient in other foods. Learn about this ingredient!

Have you ever tried fruit-based tea? In South Korea, people not only make tea from cured or fresh leaves of Camellia sinensis, but also from flowers, fruits, vegetables, and more! They even make tea from corn husks! One of the most popular types of tea in Korea is ‘maesil cha,’ otherwise known as Korean green plum tea! This fruity sweet and tangy tea is the perfect refreshing drink. It takes less than a minute to make. Learn how below!