‘차 한잔의 여유’에 빠진 2030…다도가 젊어졌다

In the evening, after wrapping up the day's work and finding a short break, many people turn to tea. They put down their phones, boil water, and reach for a teapot, a small kettle called a teapot, or a tea cup with a different taste depending on the tea it holds. They pour the water into the cup, heating it, and savor the aroma of the tea leaves.

They observe the shape of the used tea leaves. After the tea leaves are sufficiently warm, they discard the hot water and place the tea leaves in the teapot, pouring hot water over them to brew the tea. The tea is usually brewed three times. The first brew allows for enjoyment of the tea's fragrance, as the used leaves, still carrying stories from their journey, release their essence into the hot liquid.

After the tea has brewed properly, the teapot collects all the tea liquid. Once the tea is at a pleasant temperature, it is divided and served. Upon finishing, they boil more hot water to pour into the teapot for the second brew, where the tea reveals its true potential. The third brew allows for careful consideration of the tea's fading color and fragrance, as the warmth spreads throughout the body, bringing a comforting stillness.

After drinking the tea, one finds themselves taking deep breaths, reminiscing about the satisfying time spent savoring the tea's aroma and taste. It's not just about sitting and drinking tea, but the experience is truly enjoyable. Even though it's just sitting and drinking tea, the tranquility it brings feels like visiting the busy phone is unnecessary.

The calmness is the perfect companion for a late dinner. Alone or with a friend, it feels soothing. The method of drinking tea or the cultural practice called 'tea ceremony' (다도) is gaining attention among the younger generation. On online platforms, tea-related content is increasingly popular, and tea houses hosting events such as tea tasting classes and tea exhibitions have 70% of their attendees being those in their 2030s.

On June 4th, the 'International Tea Culture Festival' held at Seoul Expo Center saw more than half of the attendees being in the 2030s. One of the fastest to notice this change is Kim Soojin, known by her online name '오차쿠', who regularly shares tea-related content on YouTube, her blog, and Instagram. The recent surge in interest in tea culture is due to the ease with which it can be incorporated into daily life.

Previously, the rules and etiquette surrounding tea drinking were daunting. The fear of adhering to such strict traditions discouraged many from trying. Tea, like coffee, is just another beverage, but the experience of choosing the right leaves, roasting method, and brewing process based on one's mood and preferences adds to its appeal.

There are six main categories of tea: green, white, yellow, green (oolong), black, and dark (black). Green tea, familiar to most, is a fresh, slightly acidic tea with a light color. Black tea, commonly consumed, is fully fermented and has a strong flavor. The same tea can taste different depending on the season and weather. Tea's characteristics determine the type of tea that best suits one's taste.