In Korea, the traditional harvest festival Chuseok is approaching, taking place from mid to late September. In time for this festive season, the Pokémon franchise has teamed up with SPAM to release a special gift set. Korean Pokémon fans can enjoy this unique collaboration between the popular Japanese characters and the American canned meat. Priced at 63,700 won (approximately 47.40 USD), it is available for purchase via KakaoTalk Gift and CJ The Market's online store.
The Special Status of SPAM in Korea
While SPAM is often regarded as a lower-grade meat product in North America, it is very popular in Korea. One reason SPAM has gained popularity in Korea is due to its salty and high-fat characteristics, which pair well with Korean cuisine, particularly kimchi. According to culinary expert Da-Hae West, SPAM enhances the flavors of Korean dishes and is widely incorporated into household meals.
SPAM Rooted in History and Culture
SPAM was introduced to Korea by American soldiers during the Korean War in the 1950s. Since then, it spread as Korean citizens picked up discarded SPAM cans, and by the 1990s, it had become established as a common gift during the Asian economic crisis. At the time, SPAM was seen as an affordable alternative to fruit baskets and beef sets. Now, the international food company CJ CheilJedang distributes SPAM in Korea under a license from Hormel Foods.
