Dalgona Coffee is a beverage trend that swept the world in early 2020.

Originating in South Korea, this coffee quickly spread through social media, becoming one of the most popular DIY drinks.

What makes Dalgona Coffee stand out is its simple preparation process and striking visual appeal, which have made it especially popular among younger generations.

First of all, the name "Dalgona Coffee" is derived from the Korean street snack "Dalgona Sugar," a puffed candy made from sugar and baking soda, resembling caramel in appearance.

However, the preparation of Dalgona Coffee has no direct connection to this traditional candy. It is named after Dalgona Sugar because the dense foam and caramel-like color of the coffee remind people of the sweet treat.

Unlike traditional coffee, Dalgona Coffee is characterized by its "inverted structure," where the whipped coffee foam sits atop a glass of milk, in contrast to the usual method of adding milk to coffee.

The process of making Dalgona Coffee is quite straightforward. The main ingredients required are instant coffee, sugar, and hot water. To prepare it, one simply mixes equal parts instant coffee, sugar, and hot water.

This mixture is then whipped with a hand whisk or electric mixer until it transforms into a thick, frothy foam. This step can take just a few minutes with an electric mixer but may take a bit longer with manual whisking.

Once the foam is ready, it is spooned over a glass of hot or cold milk. The creamy texture of the foam and the layered appearance of the drink add a distinctive charm to Dalgona Coffee.

Social media played a significant role in the rapid rise of Dalgona Coffee's popularity. During the global lockdowns, countless individuals tried their hand at making coffee at home and shared their experiences and results online.

So, what exactly contributed to the worldwide popularity of Dalgona Coffee in such a short period? Firstly, its success can largely be attributed to its simplicity. For those without barista skills or special equipment, this coffee is easy to make with basic kitchen ingredients.

Instant coffee, sugar, and hot water are all that’s required, making it accessible to almost everyone. Secondly, the visual appeal of Dalgona Coffee is undeniably a key factor in its success.

Its beautifully layered presentation, with the airy coffee foam floating over the milk, makes it especially "Instagrammable." People not only enjoyed the process of making it but also took pride in capturing photos and videos to share with others, further fueling the trend.

Beyond its easy preparation and aesthetic appeal, the popularity of Dalgona Coffee also reflects the profound impact of social media on modern food culture. As platforms like TikTok and Instagram continue to grow in influence, many people now discover new recipes and drinks through these digital spaces.

Dalgona Coffee's rise in popularity perfectly fits into this trend. Whether it was due to people spending more time at home during the pandemic or their growing reliance on social media, the meteoric rise of Dalgona Coffee is undoubtedly a product of both circumstances working hand in hand.

Dalgona Coffee, however, is more than just a drink. Its cultural and social significance adds layers to what might otherwise seem like a simple trend. From its uncomplicated method of preparation to its rapid global spread and influence on modern food culture, Dalgona Coffee is a unique phenomenon.

Whether or not it remains a long-term trend, its sudden rise offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of technology, culture, and social connection in contemporary society.