It combines many of the common elements of traditional carbonated beverages such as sugar, and carbonated water with milk to create a creamy taste; its label proclaims "New feeling of soda beverage". As of 2024, U.S.-market Milkis cans state "Korea's No. 1 Cream Soda".
Milkis is available in orange, strawberry, mango, melon, banana, peach, apple, and classic (regular) flavors; the classic flavor is also featured as a glaze in pastries.[1] It is a popular beverage in South Korea, and it is available worldwide.[2]
Milkis launched in 1989 with a huge marketing campaign, notably with the appearance of Hong Kong actor Chow Yun-fat in its television advertisements.[3] Chow was enjoying huge popularity from the success of the film A Better Tomorrow and his saying the catchphrase "Saranghaeyo, Milkis!" (Korean: 사랑해요, 밀키스!, literally "I love you, Milkis!") in his strong accent became a huge hit; sales soared and the catchphrase remains as one of the most popular.[3][4]
The beverage has experienced a sharp increase in popularity in Taiwan. Chilsung began selling Milkis there in late 2020, exporting 200,000 cans. Demand increased rapidly, selling 2.3 million cans in 2021.[5] 10 million cans were sold in the first 8 months of 2022 alone.[6]
The drink has also seen success in the United States, selling 10 million cans in 2021, mainly through Asian supermarkets.[7]
