Tim Hortons, a letter to my father
Having a whole business plan from Canada to succeed in Korea might seem simple, but it must have taken years of dedication for Korea to have so many Tim Hortons today. The Tim Hortons here are so different from what I was used to back in Canada, yet they still feel the same. They are different because in Canada it was always only about the simplicity of grabbing a coffee and a sandwich on the go…
Tim Hortons, the iconic Canadian coffee chain, has managed to establish a significant presence in Korea. This unexpected success might appear straightforward, yet it required years of unwavering commitment from the company to achieve its current status in the Korean market.
The Tim Hortons establishments in Korea differ considerably from those back home in Canada. Despite these differences, they evoke a similar feeling for those familiar with the Canadian experience. One key difference lies in the simplicity of obtaining a quick coffee and sandwich with family, whether during a morning commute or a road trip across Quebec.
In Korea, Tim Hortons transcends the basic concept of a coffee shop. It offers a complete sensory experience, with unique decor and a rich menu that transports Koreans to a fleeting moment in Canada. While some may argue that apathy reigns among expats, it is those with deep-rooted hearts who remain close to their families.
As someone who wears a heart larger than most, I often find myself grappling with homesickness. The distance from my parents in Quebec City weighs heavily on my soul. Surprisingly, Tim Hortons in Korea has become the most potent reminder of the bonds I left behind, not due to any explicit Canadian cultural connection, but because these coffee shops embody the warmth and comfort of home.
Written by urgent.news from The Korea Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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- Tim Hortons, a letter to my father koreatimes.co.kr
