Is the Korean stuffed pastry bungeoppang just a knockoff of the traditional Japanese taiyaki?
One may argue that, but there are differences between the bungoebbang and taiyaki.
Shape
Taiyaki is shaped like a sea bream fish, while bungeo-ppang is shaped like a crucian carp.
Fillings
Taiyaki traditionally uses sweet red bean paste (anko) as the filling, while bungeo-ppang also commonly uses custard, chocolate, cheese, and even savory fillings like ham and kimchi.
Texture
Taiyaki has a soft, cake-like consistency, while bungeo-ppang features a crispier exterior, especially around the edges.
Availability and Popularity
Taiyaki is enjoyed year-round in Japan, while bungeo-ppang is predominantly a seasonal winter street food in Korea.
Bungeo-ppang regained popularity in the 1990s in Korea due to a retro trend, while taiyaki has been popular continually in Japan.
The Conclusion?
While bungeo-ppang originated from taiyaki during the Japanese colonial period in Korea, it has evolved to have its own distinct carp shape, filling variations, texture, and cultural significance as a nostalgic Korean winter snack.
And if you’re familiar with Korean snacks sold in Asian supermarkets, you’ve probably seen in the freezer section a treat that looks like a light-colored bungeobbang, but filled with ice cream. Yes, it’s the ever-popular Samanco!
