From Traditional To TikTok Famous — How K-Desserts Are Going Global

When talking about the impact of Korean culture, many people will understandably focus on the entertainment aspects. However, now the entire world knows that there's much more to Hallyu outside of hit K-Pop acts and captivating K-Dramas. Korean fashion, beauty, and food have shown up big time , becoming some of the hottest trends in the peninsula and across the globe. K-Food especially has made its mark among the masses through iconic choices like kimchi, Buldak ramyun, and much more.

Outside of main entrees and side dishes, Korean-style desserts have been making a splash among young consumers, mainly Millennials and Gen Z. Part of K-Desserts rise can be attributed to viral content platforms such as TikTok and YouTube. Now, everyone around the world has come to know the charms of Korean dessert as it has even earned international acclaim.

But what makes K-Dessert so special with every bite and how are companies pushing the envelope?

Traditional Korean Sweets

Sesame Sprinkles

Korea as a whole is rich in culture, with a deep history that dates back centuries. This is reflected in everything from beliefs and practices to fashion and food, especially desserts. Looking back into Korea's sweet past you will find a variety of traditional treats. One that has become well-known around the globe is tteok, a rice cake that can come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. Although many people associate tteok to tteokbokki, its original form isn't as spicy.

Tteok aside, there are many more options when it comes to Korea's sweet desserts. Yakgwa is another sweet treat that has been around for centuries. It is a traditional honey cookie that could be enjoyed as a snack along with a cup of tea. Additionally, because it symbolizes prosperity and happiness, it can also be made for special occasions.

HerZindagi

One of the unique charms of Korean desserts lies in their connection to the seasons and traditional holidays. Korea is a country that experiences four distinct seasons, making it easy to distinguish when one ends and a new one begins. The current season is then reflected in the ingredients and color of its desserts. Even root vegetables, which are commonly associated with winter, are incorporated into these sweet treats. So as a result, Korea produces a wide variety of desserts that are healthy and visually appealing. Previously overlooked by other desserts, traditional Korean desserts are now making a swift rise in a variety of different ways.