From in-company drive-thrus to yoga, lunch hours transform across Korea as prices rise and lifestyles change

Korea’s group catering industry is evolving into a more personalized service. Cafeterias at workplaces, military bases and schools have emerged as a key form of welfare, while rising prices have driven more people to rely on them.

2026-04-29

Universities offer students more affordable meals, with 1,000-won breakfasts and 2,000-won dinners

Inexpensive 1,000-won (70-cent) breakfasts at university cafeterias have been feeding many students at an affordable price, and some schools are also creating 2,000-won dinners to help students keep their stomachs full throughout the day.

2026-04-20

No more mystery meat: New website changes the way university students choose campus meals

At university cafeterias around the country, students line up to be served a rotation of dishes usually based on Korean cuisine. But without clear labeling, these students can't be totally sure what ingredients are contained in each dish.

2026-01-27

Korean university cafeterias embrace vegan and halal options to accommodate dining diversity

Korean universities, including Yonsei and Korea University, are expanding vegan and halal meal options in their cafeterias. While some institutions face challenges in demand, others, like KAIST and Chung-Ang, are actively providing diverse options.

2025-04-16

1,000-won breakfasts expand to 200 universities, launching earlier this year

The 1,000-won (70 cents) breakfast program will be available at 200 universities this year, starting earlier than usual to provide affordable meals before the spring semester begins.

2025-02-17

Lunches suffer as schools battle cafeteria worker shortages

Cafeteria understaffing is causing major headaches in schools nationwide, particularly in Seoul, leading to concerns over student malnutrition.

2024-05-15

Funding flows for 186 universities to provide 1,000-won student breakfasts

A total of 186 universities will receive government funding to offer the 1,000 won ($0.75) breakfast for their students this year.

2024-02-26

Korea doubles budget for 1,000-won breakfast at universities

The government will double its budget to help universities serve 1,000-won ($0.75) breakfast to students this year.

2024-01-18

Catering firms, fisheries federation to increase seafood menus at coporations

Six major Korean catering companies and the national fisheries federation agreed to increase seafood menus at corporations.

2023-08-30

'Lunchflation' pushes popularity in public office cafeterias

Cafeterias of public offices such as district offices, police stations and libraries have become popular lunch spots for Koreans who wish to grab affordable meals amid these days of "lunchflation," offering meals at around 5,000 won ($3.8) per dish.

2023-05-11

korea joongAng daily