The viral dalgona candy from Squid Game has taken the world by storm, turning a nostalgic Korean street snack into a global phenomenon. Here’s what you need to know about the candy and its rise to fame.
What Is Dalgona Candy?
Dalgona, also known as ppopgi, is a simple treat made from just sugar and baking soda. In South Korea, it was a popular snack in the 1970s and 80s, sold by street vendors outside schools.
Children would try to carve shapes out of the brittle candy without breaking it, which became the basis for the iconic challenge in Squid Game.
In the show, contestants had to carve shapes like a star, triangle, or the dreaded umbrella out of the candy, all while avoiding cracks.
This challenge, blending childhood nostalgia with high-stakes drama, quickly became a fan favorite and a symbol of the show’s cultural impact.
The Global Obsession
After Squid Game aired, the candy challenge went viral. Social media exploded with videos of people attempting the challenge, often with hilarious results.
The candy’s simple yet tricky nature made it a popular DIY project, with fans from all over the world recreating the treat at home.
TikTok and YouTube were flooded with dalgona-making tutorials, and many people shared their own experiences trying to carve the shapes. The candy’s rise to fame turned it into more than just a treat; it became a global trend.
Making Dalgona Candy at Home
With the popularity of Squid Game, making dalgona candy at home has become a fun challenge for many.
To make it, you need to melt sugar slowly over low heat, add baking soda, and work quickly before the mixture hardens. Experts, like Sue from My Korean Kitchen, recommend stirring constantly to get the best texture.
The challenge isn’t just about making the candy—it’s about the race to carve it without cracking the shape, just like in the show. The difficulty of the task, paired with the candy’s nostalgic roots, makes it a unique cultural experience.
A Cultural Connection
The dalgona candy craze is more than just a viral trend. It reflects South Korea’s street food culture and carries a deep cultural significance.
The treat connects generations, from older Koreans who remember it from their childhood to younger audiences who are discovering it through Squid Game.
The success of dalgona candy shows how food can transcend borders, becoming a shared cultural phenomenon. It’s a reminder of how simple foods can carry meaning and bring people together, no matter where they’re from.
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