Korean Gyeran-ppang Makes CNN’s List of the World’s 50 Best Breads

Gyeran-ppang, the beloved Korean street snack known as “egg bread,” has captured international attention by earning a spot on CNN’s “50 Best Breads in the World.”

On October 18 (local time), CNN released its online feature spotlighting 50 iconic breads from around the globe, and included gyeran-ppang—a favorite from the streets of Seoul—among winners from countries such as France, Italy, Mexico, Japan, the United States, China, and Russia.

Describing gyeran-ppang as "a famous Korean street food made from flour, sugar, and eggs," CNN praised the treat for its unique twist: a whole baked egg tucked inside a mini loaf of fluffy bread. The outlet noted its playful and flavorful appeal by stating that “a treasure is buried inside every piece of egg bread,” and emphasized that it remains “one of the most popular foods on Seoul streets.” According to CNN, gyeran-ppang can be enjoyed hot at breakfast or any time of day.

CNN also highlighted creative variations, suggesting that adding ham, cheese, or chopped parsley makes for a “sweet and savory snack,” while noting how it helps Koreans weather the country’s long, cold winters.

The global list celebrates breads renowned for “memorable flavors,” “distinctive ingredients,” “iconic standing,” and “simple pleasures,” with selections emphasizing the diversity of regions and cultures. Alongside classics like French baguette, Italian ciabatta, Mexican tortilla, Japanese curry bread, American biscuit, Chinese shaobing, and Russian karavai, gyeran-ppang was positioned between Serbia’s traditional corn bread proja and Sri Lanka’s coconut milk and rice flour hoppers—affirming Korea’s standing among the world’s bread traditions.

While Korean food is no stranger to international media spotlights, it is particularly meaningful that a humble street snack like gyeran-ppang has been featured by a major global outlet as a representative national bread. The bread’s simple ingredients and preparation, familiar flavors, and the comforting convenience of a warm snack on the go have helped it achieve universal appeal. Its cultural resonance is further enriched by the specific seasonal and urban backdrop of Seoul, offering a distinctively local yet globally inviting experience.

Note “This article was translated from the original Korean version using AI assistance, and subsequently edited by a native-speaking journalist.”

Photo=Getty Images, CNN