Sweet and Chewy South Korean Yakgwa Story: From Traditional Taste to Modern Snack Favorites

– Samlip Mini Honey Yakgwa & Hojungga Glutinous Rice Yakgwa –

 

2. History of Yakgwa and the Secret of Fermented Rice Syrup

The roots of Yakgwa trace back to the Goryeo Dynasty, when it was offered in Buddhist temples as part of rituals. Later, it became a delicacy in royal palaces and noble households during the Joseon era.

One key ingredient that has preserved Yakgwa’s signature flavor through the ages is Fermented Rice Syrup (발효미당, balhyo midang).
Made by fermenting rice malt, this syrup adds a mild depth and aroma that sugar alone can’t replicate.
It’s this traditional fermentation process that gives Yakgwa its uniquely soft sweetness and subtle, lingering fragrance.

3. Samlip Mini Honey Yakgwa – A Bite-Sized Taste of Tradition

Features

The Samlip Mini Honey Yakgwa is small, soft, and pleasantly sweet—perfect for when you crave just a little something after a meal. Each piece is individually wrapped, making it convenient to carry around or share with friends.

It contains Fermented Rice Syrup, which enhances the flavor and aroma, giving it a richer, more delicate sweetness compared to regular sugar-based versions.

Where to Buy

You can easily find Samlip Mini Honey Yakgwa at major Korean convenience stores such as CU, GS25, and 7-Eleven when visiting Korea.
Interestingly, Samlip’s Yakgwa products have also been sold at Costco stores in the United States, so it’s possible to find them abroad as well.
If you’re not visiting Korea anytime soon, they’re also available through online platforms such as Gmarket Global.

Storage Tips

Keep at room temperature away from direct sunlight. During warmer months, store in a cool place or refrigerate.
If refrigerated, leave the package at room temperature for about 5 minutes before eating to bring back its original soft texture.

 

4. Hojungga Glutinous Rice Yakgwa – Chewy Texture and Deep Traditional Flavor

Features

Hojungga Glutinous Rice Yakgwa stands out for its chewy texture and subtle cinnamon aroma.
It’s less oily than typical fried sweets and offers a cleaner, more balanced taste that highlights the essence of traditional Korean confectionery.

Each piece contains about 140 kcal per piece, but thanks to its dense, satisfying texture, one is usually enough.
It’s individually wrapped for easy storage and on-the-go snacking.

Where to Buy

You can find it in the traditional food sections of Korean supermarkets, at local markets, and at traditional confectionery shops when visiting Korea.
It’s also available through several Korean online stores that offer international shipping options, including Gmarket Global.

Storage Tips

After opening, store in an airtight container and refrigerate.
Microwave for about 10 seconds before serving—it softens the texture and enhances the aroma, making it taste freshly made.

5. Yakgwa Trend – Where Tradition Meets Dessert Culture

Recently, Yakgwa has experienced what Koreans call a “Yakgwa boom.”
Modern cafés, bakeries, and even convenience stores have reimagined this traditional snack into creative desserts that blend old and new.

• Yakgwa Ice Cream: a perfect mix of creamy vanilla and honey-fried Yakgwa pieces.
• Yakgwa Latte or Frappe: blended Yakgwa adds natural sweetness and nutty depth.
• Yakgwa Cake or Sandwich: soft Yakgwa paired with cream cheese or buttercream layers.
• Yakgwa Crunch or Bar: crushed Yakgwa mixed with chocolate or nuts for a portable treat.

Yakgwa has truly transcended its traditional role to become a versatile base for modern dessert trends—proof that heritage flavors can still feel new and exciting.

6. Travel Tips for Yakgwa Lovers

• Yakgwa travels well—sturdy enough for flights and ideal as a souvenir or travel snack.
• It’s airline-friendly and won’t crumble easily.
• When visiting Korea, you can find Yakgwa almost anywhere—from convenience stores to traditional markets.
• Even without visiting Korea, you can order Yakgwa through Korean online shopping platforms that offer international delivery.
• The packaging, often featuring Hangul (Korean script) designs, makes it a charming and culturally meaningful gift.

7. Summary: Two Beloved Types of Korean Yakgwa

Product	Key Features	Where to Buy	Highlight
Samlip Mini Honey Yakgwa	Soft, bite-sized, and sweet	Convenience stores / Online	Easy to carry; great with tea or coffee
Hojungga Glutinous Rice Yakgwa	Chewy and mildly spiced with cinnamon	Traditional markets / Supermarkets	Authentic taste with a chewy texture

 

Sources

• https://www.samlip.com/product/ (Official Samlip Website)
• https://m.hojeongfood.com/goods/goods_view.php?goodsNo=762 (Official Hojungga Product Page)

Final Thoughts – A Bite of Tradition in Every Piece

Yakgwa is more than just a snack—it’s a piece of Korean history and heartfelt craftsmanship.
From the modern convenience of Samlip Mini Honey Yakgwa to the chewy, nostalgic flavor of Hojungga Glutinous Rice Yakgwa, each tells its own story of Korea’s evolving dessert culture.

Every soft, honey-soaked bite carries the warmth of tradition and the creativity of today’s Korea.
That’s why even after centuries, Yakgwa remains one of the country’s sweetest cultural treasures.

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