[Trend] Why 'Dubai' Desserts Are Everywhere in Korea
Creatrip Team
3 months ago
A new dessert craze in South Korea attaches the name 'Dubai' to many sweets—cookies, bread, butter bars, macarons, tteok (Korean rice cakes), muffins and even a novelty 'gimbap'—driving long lines and quick sellouts despite high prices. These products are not imported from Dubai but are Korean reinterpretations of the popular 'Dubai' chocolate combo (pistachio spread and kadaif) that went viral last year. Cafés and convenience stores report strong demand, with some items limited per customer; social media (Instagram reels, YouTube shorts) fuels impulse buying, especially among teenagers. Critics warn of overspending, health concerns over sugary treats, and strain on shop owners who must follow trends and cope with rising ingredient costs (many are imported), while experts say local adaptations and continued social sharing determine how long such fads last.
