Tea is not just a beverage in South Asia. It’s rooted deep within the cultures of different countries in this part of the world. Similarly, Korean Tea Culture of South Africa dates back to the ancient pages of history. Yet, it has managed to upkeep its intricate tea ceremonies for centuries now. These ceremonies infuse a concept of mindfulness, nature’s bounty, and community.
Standing as a cultural identity, it’s interwoven into the culture of Korea. Despite this modern digital era that puts a risk of this tradition fading away, they have managed to sustain and spread this long-held tea tradition. Also, there is a growing attempt to rediscover the lost art of Korean tea.
Korean Tea Culture
A Cup Rooted in History
Korean tea is not as famous as the global Japanese matcha or Chinese white tea. But it has its own legacy and history. The first historical record noting the offering of tea to an ancestral god describes a rite in the year 661. In that, tea was offered to the spirit of King Suro, the founder of the Geumgwan Gaya Kingdom (42–562). Also, records from the Goryeo dynasty reveal that tea offerings were made to the spirits of revered monks in Buddhist temples.
Later in the Silla dynasty, this tea culture was enriched by Korean monks returning from China after studying Buddhism and chanting rituals. They brought back some early harvested tea varieties that were then grown locally, which led to the birth of the Korean tea ceremony.
These ceremonies were held in Zen style. It was a serious, mindful practice. The monks used to implement every preparation set-up step carefully. From heating charcoal in incense burners to gently wiping ceramic tea cups to whisking matcha or driving symbols, it upheld the principle of spiritual awakening in Buddhism.
The different royal Korean dynasties and rules further popularised it. They organised full-day tea ceremonies featuring rare-year-old fermented teas, making it more important.
Significance of the Korean Tea Ceremonies
Traditional ceremonies are still relevant in Korean society today. It continues to have the same cultural and social significance.
Although they are not as prevalent as once, they are still important on special occasions, such as weddings, holidays, and important gatherings. They stand as a symbol of respect, harmony, and appreciation for nature and the finer things in life.
Then and Now – Traditional Korean Tea Varieties
There are different types of Korean Tea Varieties, both traditional and modern. Some of them include:
1. Leaf Teas
The leaf teas are made with a mix of boiled water and leaves. Every leaf carries a distinct flavour. Some Varieties of leaf teas are more popular than others in ceremonies.
2. Baegyeop Cha (Pine Leaf Tea)
It is a herbal tea made from the leaves of a Korean pine tree. It is also known as jannip-cha.
3. White Mountain Tea
It is made using the flowering Rhododendron plant. The herbal tea made from it has multiple names, such as Labrador and White Mountain tea. The white mountain tea is considered to be a remedy for puncture wounds and bites.
4. Bakha-cha (Mint Tea)
The Korean Mint tea is made by infusing mint leaves in hot water. However, it’s different from other mint teas because it’s made from East Asian wild mint leaves. Also, essential oils like menthol are present in a high concentration in them.
So, it’s often used to treat digestive system issues and is considered an anti-inflammatory.
5. Corn Silk Tea
Oksusu-Suyeom Cha, or Corn Silk Tea, is another unique Korean tea. Corn Silk is a non-edible part of corn by most people, instead of a tea ingredient.
So, it’s often tossed out while preparing Corn. However, considering the benefits of corn silk, Koreans somehow decided to drink it as tea.
6. Hyeonmi- Cha (Brown Rice Tea)
It is made from roasted brown rice. However, it’s similar to the Japanese Genmai cha except for the fact that it is made without green tea leaves. Sometimes, even Korean green tea leaves are added to make Hyeonmi Nokcha.
7. Gamnip- Cha (Persimmon Leaf Tea)
As the name suggests, this tea is made from persimmon tree leaves infused with boiled water. Although it tastes bitter, this caffeine-free beverage has health benefits. It has a high vitamin and mineral concentration in the leaves that improve metabolism.
Health Benefits of Korean Tea:
Apart from a variety of flavours, Korean teas have a variety of health benefits. Different kinds of Korean Teas have different health benefits like:
Hong sam cha:
It’s known for its numerous medicinal properties. It improves the immune system, promotes blood circulation, aids brain functioning, and helps decrease stress.
Yulmu-cha:
It’s high in protein and boosts the immune system.
Bori-Cha:
It helps with indigestion and weight loss. Also, it helps to control blood sugar levels.
Maesil-cha:
It helps relieve symptoms of food poisoning and diarrhoea, detoxify the body, and aid digestion.
Daechu-cha:
It helps to relieve anxiety and insomnia.
Final Words
The Korean Tea Culture has sustained the test of time. Although it’s not practised in the way it was before, the culture is making a comeback in this digital world. Several cafes and lounges in the country are reinventing themselves around Korean Tea culture. Also, they are focusing more on simplicity, wellness, and community. As the Koreans return to their tea roots, this age-old wellness ritual is gaining its lost importance again.
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