How 'Hoppang' Became Korea's Beloved Winter Snack — 6.8 Billion Sold
Creatrip Team
2 months ago
Launched in October 1971 by Samlip to fill a winter sales gap, the steamed filled bun 'hoppang' has sold over 6.8 billion units and remains a winter staple in Korea. Originally created so bread wouldn't freeze on store shelves, the 10cm, 90g hoppang quickly became popular despite a higher price, and early sales once accounted for over 20% of Samlip's annual revenue. Its longevity is credited to continuous product innovation—regular flavors like red bean and vegetable plus seasonal and experimental varieties (mint chocolate, mala, soda) and meal-style fillings (meat and chive, charcoal grilled ribs). Packaging and cooking methods evolved too: single-serve convenience packs and social-media-driven ways to heat hoppang in air fryers or waffle irons expanded its appeal. Samlip now exports hoppang to 22 countries, winning international recognition (a 3-star award at the International Taste Institute in Belgium) and strong U.S. growth via Asian grocery channels and mini steamers. The company says global interest is boosted by familiarity with Korean food through K-culture. (hoppang: a warm, steamed filled bun traditionally sold in winter)
