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March 2025

Try our new Topokki from your nearest Lidl!


The one to watch on the global food stage, Topokki has finally arrived in the UK. A much-loved street food, made of cylinder shaped, chewy rice cakes in a spicy, sweet sauce, Topokki is predicted to be the next big K-Food trend among Brits and the word on everyone’s lips. (and if you want to say it correctly, it is phonetically pronounced tuck-poke-key. Check out this video if it helps to hear it)

Korean romanization varies, so you may also see it written as Tteokbokki, instead of Topokki. It is the same dish, but the latter is a simplified phonetic spelling, commonly used on a global stage, to make pronunciation easier for non-Korean speakers.

The trend can be attributed to the growing interest in Korean cuisine more widely, driven by the global rise of K-pop, K-dramas, K-beauty and Korean culture generally.

And, right on cue, Sun Hee is launching quick and easy Topokki Cups into Lidl, helping UK consumers whip up the traditional Korean comfort food in just minutes.

Sun Hee’s Topokki cups are launching in three trending flavours, including; Hot & Spicy; Sweet & Spicy and Cheesy & Spicy.

While traditional topokki is served with fish cakes, boiled eggs and cabbage in a spicy gochujang-based sauce, modern versions have emerged with unique twists like cheese, carbonara, or even adding crispy fried chicken. These popular, fusion varieties have been sweeping the globe.

Topokki’s popularity is linked to wider Korean food crazes and the recent ‘K-wave’ which has elevated Korean food to new heights, with dedicated Korean food restaurants popping up in cities around the world.

The single biggest driver of this trend is social media. Instagram, TikTok and YouTube have played a huge role in spreading Topokki’s popularity. Food influencers and home cooks are regularly sharing their takes on the dish, experimenting with new flavours and presentation styles, all contributing to the dish’s viral status.

In Korea, specialised topokki chains, like Sinseon Tteokbokki, have become incredibly popular, also expanding into international markets. Offering a wide range of topokki dishes, from classic to more creative versions, these chains are making it easier for people around the world to enjoy Korea’s vibrant street food culture.

In South Korea, Topokki is seen as the ultimate comfort food, offering a satisfying combination of spicy, sweet, and chewy indulgence. Its versatility means that it can be served as a quick snack, a hearty meal, or a trendy appetiser to impress friends at dinner parties.

Sun Hee Topokki cups are available from selected Lidl stores now.

Isn’t it time you tried out the latest K-food trend that has been circling the globe? Get down to Lidl today to grab a cup of comfort!