Tasting Korea: The Iconic Banana Milk Loved by Locals and Tourists

 

Korean Banana Milk: Why Tourists Love It and the New Sugar-Free Option You Should Try





If you’ve ever visited South Korea or plan to, there’s one nostalgic drink you’ll see everywhere—from convenience stores to Instagram photos. It’s called banana milk, and it’s one of the most iconic beverages in Korean food culture.

Originally launched in 1974 by Binggrae, Korea’s most well-known banana milk brand has become a must-try for both locals and international travelers. Its unique round bottle, soft yellow color, and sweet banana flavor have made it a fan favorite for decades.

Where to Find Banana Milk in Korea

You can easily find banana milk at any convenience store in Korea, such as CU, GS25, and 7-Eleven. The typical price ranges from 1,300 to 1,700 KRW per bottle. It is sold chilled and is commonly enjoyed as a light snack or dessert drink.

The Healthier Alternative: Sugar-Free Banana Milk

With more travelers becoming health-conscious, Binggrae has introduced a new version of their famous drink: Sugar Zero Banana Flavored Milk.

What is Binggrae Sugar Zero Banana Milk?

This version contains no added sugar and is sweetened with alternative ingredients like erythritol. It keeps the same banana aroma but delivers a lighter and cleaner taste. The bottle design is almost identical to the original, except for a "ZERO" label on the cap to indicate it’s sugar-free.

Key Details

  • Main sweetener: Erythritol (no refined sugar)
  • Calories: Less than 100 kcal per bottle (compared to 208 kcal in the original)
  • Taste: Less sugary, smoother finish with the same banana scent
  • Packaging: Same iconic yellow bottle, now labeled with “ZERO”
  • Where to buy: Available at select GS25, CU, and Emart24 stores

What Foreign Visitors Often Ask

Is there really no sugar? – That’s correct. It contains zero refined sugar, but uses natural sweeteners that don’t spike blood sugar in the same way.

Does it taste different from the original? – While it’s noticeably less sweet, many people prefer the clean taste, especially those who aren’t used to sugary drinks.

Is it vegan or lactose-free? – No. It still uses regular milk, so it is not suitable for vegans or those with lactose intolerance.

Why You Should Try It When Visiting Korea

The original banana milk is a piece of Korean culture. But if you're watching your sugar intake or simply want something lighter, the Sugar Zero version is an excellent alternative that still feels nostalgic and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

Banana milk is more than just a drink in Korea. It’s a cultural icon with a modern twist. Whether you try the classic or the sugar-free version, it’s one of those local items you’ll want to bring home—or at least Instagram once.