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Move over, sugar-free and zero calories. Benson Creamery in Seoul is bringing back the full-fat, flavor-first Korean ice cream experience, just in time for summer.
Nestled in the heart of Gangnam District, Benson is more than just an ice cream brand. It’s a brand that is making a bold statement in the time of zero calories. It’s a declaration that real ice cream is back, unapologetically rich, deliciously creamy, and proudly indulgent. As the weather heats up, Benson is the place to be and a reason to treat yourself to something truly satisfying in the capital.
Benson Creamery – A Summer Treat with Substance in Seoul
As the sweltering summer is approaching, something cold is a must-have. Whether it is shaved ice or a creamy scoop of ice cream, it is something you can live without in South Korean summers. And when it comes to ice cream, Benson is here to be the best.
Its 20 handcrafted flavors, all made with 100% fresh domestic dairy, are a masterclass in texture and taste. Each scoop boasts up to 17% milk fat and a low air content (just 40%). And that means a dense, velvety texture that’s worlds apart from airy, commercial alternatives.
The “Lazy Sunday French Toast” flavor, one of the brand’s signature, brings the cozy sweetness of a weekend breakfast into frozen form, complete with buttery toast bits. Perfect for cooling down on a hot afternoon stroll through Apgujeong or elevating a summer date night, Benson’s menu promises something for every ice cream lover. There are flavors ranging from nostalgic classics to adventurous, limited-edition offerings.
The Story Behind the Scoop
Benson is the brainchild of Better Scoop Creamery, a subsidiary of Hanwha Galleria. It was born from a deceptively simple question: What is real ice cream? That question sparked a deep dive into the heritage of American-style ice cream which is chunky, creamy, and high in milk fat. And this is an inspiration of the same but in Korean style!
While the name “Benson” may sound Western, the brand is wholly Korean. The ice cream is crafted in Pocheon, Gyeonggi Province, giving the team full control over every step of production. Unlike the low-calorie dessert trend dominating modern menus, Benson embraces indulgence while prioritizing natural, high-quality ingredients, with no artificial additives.
The project gained attention even before its launch, thanks to its high-profile backer: Kim Dong-sun, Executive VP of Hanwha Galleria, and the man who brought Five Guys to Korea in 2023. Kim played an active role in shaping Benson, from branding to flavor development, signaling the company’s serious intent to redefine Korea’s premium ice cream scene.
More Than Just a Scoop
Benson’s new flagship store in Apgujeong is a 795-square-meter dessert destination. Upstairs, the Tasting Lounge, developed with acclaimed chef Justin Lee, elevates ice cream into gourmet plated desserts. Imagine premium scoops served with cheesecake or seasonal pastries. The lounge offers reservation-only experiences priced from 10,000 to 20,000 won, making it a perfect date spot or special treat location.
There’s also a Scoop Shop where you can drop by to taste and take your favorite flavors of ice cream.
Meanwhile, the basement level gives visitors a behind-the-scenes peek at how the ice cream is made, and even the chance to create their own custom flavors. Creamery Lab is a fun and interactive way to beat the heat and dive into the artistry of dessert.
A Local Brand with Big Ambitions
Although Benson has no current plans for international expansion, the company aims to open up to 20 stores across Korea in 2025, with at least 10 launching in the greater Seoul area. Given the brand’s premium price point, 5,300 won per cup, some might hesitate. But the company is confident that its quality and customer experience will set it apart.
As Korea’s dessert landscape continues to evolve, Benson Creamery is proving that going back to basics is what consumers want. They crave real ingredients, rich textures, and uncompromising flavor.
Why It’s Perfect for Summer Travelers?
For tourists and locals alike, Benson Creamery offers a refreshing twist on Korean dessert culture. It’s a delightful stop after exploring Gangnam’s shopping districts or a mid-afternoon escape from Seoul’s rising temperatures. Whether you’re indulging in a scoop of caramel pecan or watching your custom flavor come to life in the basement lab, Benson offers an experience that’s uniquely Korean yet globally appealing.
This summer, skip the guilt-free sorbets and embrace the richness of tradition — with a scoop (or two) of Benson.
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