Old-school snack for a road trip, movie night, or having a few beers. If you haven’t tried these iconic Korean snacks then add these to the popcorn, pretzel, chip rotation!
📍 Found at: H-Mart, 7-Eleven Korea, & Every Asian Pantry
🏷️ Category: The “OG” Savory Snack
The Snack That Defined a Nation: Saeukkang (Shrimp Crackers)
If you walk into any karaoke bar (Noraebang) or join a drinking circle in Seoul, you will see a bag of these on the table. Saeukkang (새우깡) is not just a chip; it is a cultural institution. Launched in 1971, it is the #1 selling snack in South Korean history.
👅 5-Bok Taste Profile
| Texture: | Airy, Light, Extremely Crunchy |
| Flavor: | Savory, Salty, Distinct Roasted Shrimp |
| Best Pairing: | Ice Cold Lager Beer (Cass/Terra) or Soju |
| Addictiveness: | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (You cannot eat just one) |
My Experience
Opening a bag of Saeukkang releases a distinct, savory aroma that instantly makes you thirsty for a cold drink. Unlike dense American potato chips, these are made from flour and ground shrimp, then baked (not fried), giving them a unique “ribbed” texture that shatters when you bite into it.
It’s the ultimate “Anju” (snack aimed to be eaten with alcohol). It’s not greasy, so you can eat a whole bag while watching a movie without feeling heavy afterwards. It satisfies the “Salty” craving perfectly without being overpowering.
🎥 Pop Culture Moment: The “Rain” Connection
The music video that started the viral “1 Gang a Day” movement.
Did you know K-Pop legend Rain (Bi) is the face of this snack? After his song “Gang” went viral with the “1 Gang a Day” meme, Nongshim (the company that makes Saeukkang hired him because “Saeuk-KKANG” rhymes with “GANG.”
Watch Rain (Bi) officially endorsing the Rain Gang Snack in this viral commercial.
🎬 As Seen on Netflix: Zoey from the group Huntrix (in the movie K-Pop: Demon Hunters) fueling up with Saeukkang before a mission.
In the Netflix animated movie K-Pop Demon Hunters, the characters are often seen snacking on these distinct ribbed crackers during downtime!
🛒 Bring the Korean Market Home
You don’t need a plane ticket to Seoul to try these. We recommend buying the “Variety Packs” on Amazon to try both the Original and the Spicy version (which has a real kick!).
The Classic (Mild)
The Spicy Kick (Recommended!)
📺 Movie Night Essentials
- 🍺 Authentic Soju Shot Glasses (For the full experience)
- 🥢 Stainless Steel Korean Chopsticks (Keep your fingers clean!)
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