KOREAN NEWS

Starbucks Korea launched its new product, the "Dubai Chewy Roll," at six major stores in Seoul on January 30. Reflecting the massive popularity of "Dubai Chewy Cookies" on social media, this new dessert features Kataifi (traditional Middle Eastern noodles) and pistachio paste wrapped in a marshmallow sheet. On the first day of release, despite temperatures in Seoul plunging to -12°C, long lines formed at major locations like Gwanghwamun over an hour before opening, leading to

Nongshim’s flagship product, Shin Ramyun, was featured on the popular ABC late-night talk show ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ on the 26th (local time), garnering significant attention. During the broadcast, regular cast member Guillermo Rodriguez appeared in a humorous skit where he relieved daily fatigue with the "deliciously spicy taste" of Shin Ramyun. By naturally integrating the product into the content rather than using a forceful advertisement, the segment drew positive reaction

Recently, Karina, a member of the group aespa, gained attention by recommending the combination of Samgyeopsal (pork belly) and ramen as her "soul food" in a video on the YouTube channel "Editor Karina." Karina compared Samgyeopsal to life and memories, suggesting that a meal is only truly complete when ramen is added. This combination is a popular part of Korean food culture and is gaining interest among international fans following the K-pop star's recommendation. However,

The viral "Dubai Chewy Cookie" (Dujjonku) phenomenon in South Korea has reached a bizarre turning point as non-food businesses, including specialized bedding shops, have begun using the treat to lure customers.  Recent online reports featured a blanket shop advertising the cookies to entice visitors inside, following similar tactics used by sushi and eel restaurants. This trend of using a high-demand dessert as a "bait product" has sparked a heated debate regarding unethical

As of January 2026, South Korea's traditional markets have evolved far beyond mere grocery stops, emerging as the hottest "complex cultural spaces" for foreigners.  Data analysis from social media reveals that spots like Gwangjang Market and Mangwon Market consistently rank as the #1 "must-visit destinations" for global tourists. Recently, "fusion street food"—which blends traditional recipes with modern sensibilities—has gained immense popularity. The driving force behind th

In the first half of this year, the most widely consumed snack among Koreans was Shrimp Crackers, known locally as Saewookkang, which is often said to have been inspired by the Japanese snack Kappa Ebisen. According to data released on the 10th by the Food Industry Statistics Information Service, Saewookkang recorded retail sales of 57.8 billion won in the first half of the year, ranking first for the second consecutive year. It topped the overall rankings across all snack ca

The Blue Ribbon Survey, Korea's first domestic restaurant guide, has unveiled its “Seoul’s Best Restaurants 2026,” naming six new “Three Ribbon” establishments. Among the honorees are modern kaiseki "Kagen," Chef Ahn Seongjae's "Mosu Seoul," sushi specialty "Sosuhon," modern Korean "Soul Dining," high-end sushi "Hane," and Chinese master Chef Hu Deokjook’s "Hobin." This year’s rankings, determined by over 70,000 readers, now feature 43 three-ribbon restaurants, an increase of

The World Institute of Kimchi has transferred its joint-health improvement technology, developed using kimchi-derived probiotics, to ACE Biome, accelerating the development of functional bio-health materials. As aging accelerates and high-intensity exercise becomes more common, demand for joint-care solutions is rapidly increasing. This has positioned kimchi-based probiotic ingredients as a high-growth sector in the next-generation functional food market. The technology is ba

Korean hamburger and chicken brand Mom’s Touch has launched a limited-edition collaboration set with the globally popular game “Goddess of Victory: NIKKE.” collaboration celebrates the game’s third anniversary and marks the first official partnership between the two brands. Inspired by the in-game battle cue “Encounter,” the campaign aims to offer a unique cross-online/offline dining experience while engaging directly with fans of the game franchise. The collaboration feature

Korea’s major chicken franchise brands are turning their attention back to the burger market, responding to shifting consumer trends amid rising food prices. As dining costs soar and solo dining becomes more common, leading chicken franchises — including BBQ, bhc, and Kyochon — are diversifying their menus to appeal to value-conscious consumers. Though current offerings remain in a test phase, the companies plan to expand based on market reactions. bhc has launched three limi

In Korea, matcha has become a rising lifestyle trend among Gen Z, celebrities, and social media users. Unlike brewed green tea, matcha is...

SPC Group announced plans to bring U.S. Mexican franchise Chipotle Mexican Grill  (hereafter Chipotle) to Seoul in the first half of next...

Korea’s traditional liquor industry is actively launching miniature products. Small-sized bottles not only allow consumers to experience...

Nongshim announced on the 28th that, as part of its collaboration with Netflix’s K-POP Demon Hunters  that began on the 20th, it will...

Shinsegae Department Store will officially open its 1,200-pyeong (approx. 3,967㎡ / 42,760 sq ft / 1 acre) Premium Deli Hall on the...

Nongshim has opened its third global “Shin Ramyeon Bunsik” location in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam. This experiential space is part of...

Nongshim is starting direct communication with global fans through a collaboration with the popular Netflix animation "K-POP DEMON...

The Seoul Metropolitan Government will introduce “Seoul Table,” a local gourmet cooking class where foreign tourists can purchase...

French luxury brand Louis Vuitton will open its first permanent restaurant, “Le Café Louis Vuitton,” inside Louis Vuitton Maison Seoul in...

Nongshim has announced plans to export its new snack product “Melon Kick” to the North American market (United States and Canada). <Melon...