The Salt Bread Craze in Korea: Why Everyone’s Lining Up for This Buttery Delight

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Salt Bread Craze in Korea:

Why Everyone’s Lining Up for This Buttery Delight

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In South Korea, where food trends rise and fall at lightning speed, it’s rare for one item to capture the public’s attention — and hold onto it — for more than a few seasons. 

 

But one humble, golden-brown pastry has defied the odds: salt bread, or sogeumbbang (소금빵), has become a lasting obsession among Koreans of all ages, and the craze shows no signs of slowing down.

 

 

 

https://n.news.naver.com/mnews/article/353/0000051944

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Origins of Salt Bread

 

The story of salt bread doesn’t begin in Korea, but in a small bakery in Japan.

 

Back in 2003, the owner of Pain Maison, located in Ehime Prefecture, found himself with leftover baguette dough and wondered how to use it creatively.

 

Around the same time, his son casually mentioned that salted bread was trending in France.

 

That offhand comment sparked inspiration — the baker took the baguette dough, added butter and coarse salt, and baked it into what became known as shio-pan (しおパン), literally “salt bread” in Japanese.

 

As the bread made its way across borders, it found its way into the Korean bakery scene, where it was translated directly into sogeumbbang (소금빵).

 

From that moment on, it took on a life of its own.

 

 

 

 

https://n.news.naver.com/mnews/article/353/0000051944

 

 

 

 

 

What Makes Salt Bread So Special?

 

At first glance, salt bread may look like a simple roll, but one bite reveals why people are lining up for it.

 

The dough, similar to bagel dough but enhanced with butter and a touch of sugar, is soft, slightly chewy, and rich in flavor.

 

What sets it apart is the generous sprinkle of coarse salt on top, which adds a savory contrast to the slightly sweet interior — a flavor combination known in Korean as danjjan (단짠), short for “sweet and salty.”

 

This danjjan flavor profile is wildly popular, especially among younger generations who love foods that blend contrasting tastes.

 

Salt bread hits that perfect balance — not too heavy, not too sweet, but indulgent enough to satisfy a pastry craving.

 

 

 

 

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The Ultimate Salt Bread Destination: Artist Bakery in Anguk

 

While salt bread can now be found in countless bakeries across South Korea, there’s one place that has emerged as a true pilgrimage site for fans of this buttery bun: Artist Bakery, located in the heart of Anguk, Seoul.

 

Just a minute’s walk from Exit 1 of Anguk Station, Artist Bakery is a sister brand of the wildly famous London Bagel Museum, a trendy cafe that helped ignite Korea’s bagel mania.

 

As soon as you approach the bakery, you’ll likely spot a line of eager customers waiting to get inside — a clear sign you’re in the right place.

 

Inside, the aroma of freshly baked bread fills the air. The bakery specializes in around 20 varieties of salt bread, each with a slightly different flavor or texture.

 

There are two main styles:

• Soft, which has a tender, layered, almost croissant-like texture,
• and Hard, with a crispy exterior and moist, buttery interior — perfect for those who prefer a bit of crunch with each bite.

Other offerings include baguettes, hearty soups, and drinks, making it a great stop for brunch or a cozy afternoon treat.

 

One of the charms of Artist Bakery is that the bread is baked throughout the day in a visible kitchen area at the back of the store. You can watch the bakers roll, shape, and glaze each loaf by hand.

 

But beware — the most popular varieties often sell out quickly, especially on weekends. If you want the best selection, plan to visit earlier in the day.

 

 

 

 

 

https://m.blog.naver.com/wjddjs_92/223287253378

 

 

 

 

 

Is It Worth the Hype?

 

Absolutely. Salt bread isn’t just a passing food trend — it’s a deeply comforting, flavorful snack that hits all the right notes.

 

Whether you’re a carb lover, a fan of sweet-savory combos, or just someone who enjoys discovering what’s hot in Seoul’s ever-evolving cafe scene, sogeumbbang deserves a spot on your must-try list.

 

And if you’re looking for the best place to experience this trend at its finest, Artist Bakery in Anguk is your go-to destination.

 

📍 Address: 45 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

🕒 Tip: Arrive early for the best selection — it sells out fast!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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