Shrimp Crackers
Saewookkang (Korean: 새우깡) is a shrimp-flavored snack that is widely enjoyed in South Korea. Introduced by Nongshim in 1971, it has gained nationwide popularity as a convenient snack and accompaniment for alcoholic beverages. Made primarily from wheat flour, starch, and shrimp powder, it is characterized by its crispy, light texture. Saewookkang is notable for its shape and taste, which are similar to the Japanese snack Kappa Ebisen. Today, various flavors are available, and the snack continues to be enjoyed by many people both in South Korea and abroad.
- Taste Rating
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- Price
- ? Won
- Meal Date
- 11/26/2023
- Food Travel Log
- Just like in the Philippines, I found a snack in Korea resembling a famous Japanese one. Released in 1971, Saewoo Kkang looked like it could be a copycat. The texture was similar, but it was much less salty. Not ideal with alcohol, but light and crunchy. It's impressive to create products that inspire copies worldwide. I can at least imitate eating happily!
AI Gourmet Analysis
Saewookkang (새우깡)
Saewookkang (Korean: 새우깡) is one of Korea's most iconic snack foods, first released by Nongshim in 1971. It is a prawn-based snack, notable for its appearance and texture, which closely resemble Japan’s "Kappa Ebisen." Thanks to its affordable price and distinctive taste, Saewookkang has maintained high popularity both domestically and internationally since its launch. It is widely consumed as a light snack or as a companion to alcoholic beverages.
History and Background
Saewookkang was the first prawn-flavored snack to achieve nationwide popularity in Korea. At the time of its release, using fresh prawns in snack production was considered innovative, and the product quickly became a national favorite. It has come to represent the Korean snack industry and its popularity persists in Korean food stores abroad, especially throughout Asia.
The similarity to Japan's "Kappa Ebisen" is often noted, with some pointing to the introduction or imitation of Japanese technology from the late 1960s to early 1970s as a contributing factor. Nonetheless, Saewookkang has been loved for over 40 years as a "national snack" in Korea, having developed its own distinctive taste and brand image.
Production Method and Characteristics
Saewookkang is produced by shaping a dough made mainly from prawn powder, wheat flour, and starch, then baking it in an oven rather than frying it in oil. This results in a light texture and crunchy bite, with the lower oil content appealing to health-conscious consumers. The packaging often features a large shrimp illustration, and its vivid red or orange coloring has become a brand icon.
Flavor and Variations
The original Saewookkang has a simple salty taste with a hint of prawn flavor, making it easy to eat without becoming monotonous. Today, in addition to the original flavor, there are also spicy, reduced-salt, cheese, and other varieties, making it popular among a wide range of generations and preferences.
Distribution and International Expansion
In Korea, Saewookkang is easily found in almost every retail outlet, including convenience stores and supermarkets. Abroad, it has strong recognition in areas with many Asian markets or Korean grocery stores. In particular, it is highly popular among expatriates and fans of Korean culture as a representative Korean snack.
Cultural Impact and Media Presence
Saewookkang frequently appears in Korean dramas, movies, and variety shows, and is regarded as a symbol of Korea’s snack culture. Fans have shared arrangement recipes—such as adding cheese or using it as a topping for Korean ramen—on social media, expanding Saewookkang’s presence beyond a mere snack to become an influential element in contemporary Korean pop culture.
Summary
Saewookkang is a simple yet enduringly beloved staple of Korean snack food. Though it shares some similarities in appearance and flavor with Japan’s "Kappa Ebisen," it has evolved uniquely through Korean production methods and the development of various flavors. For those traveling to Korea, trying this national snack offers an accessible way to experience the country’s food culture firsthand.