In the gripping narrative of Netflix’s “Squid Game,” where life and death hinge on the outcome of simple yet perilous games, one game stood out for its mix of nostalgia and tension—the carving of dalgona candy. This vividly colored, brittle confection has roots that run deep in South Korean culture, representing more than just a culinary treat. Its emergence as a focal point in one of the world’s most-watched series turned it into a symbol of both survival and social interaction, while simultaneously illuminating South Korea’s rich food traditions.
Dalgona, known colloquially as ppopgi, was a staple of childhood for many South Koreans growing up in the 1970s and 80s. It was typically sold by street vendors, who would tempt children with the allure of its caramelized sweetness and whimsical shapes stamped into the candy. As kids gathered after school, they would attempt to delicately nibble around the edges without shattering the design—a playful challenge that mirrored the intense competition in “Squid Game.” This playful yet challenging aspect of dalgona not only captures the essence of childhood games but also resonates with audiences who witnessed the tension that can be evoked from something as simple as candy.
The resurgence of dalgona candy’s popularity can be attributed to its prominent feature in “Squid Game,” which captivated viewers worldwide. In the wake of the show’s success, social media platforms were inundated with videos showcasing fans reenacting the dalgona candy challenge. TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube became stages for culinary experimentation, as users attempted to carve out shapes without cracking the brittle candy. Often, these attempts ended in laughter and camaraderie, further enriching the cultural narrative surrounding dalgona.
As this traditional treat leaped into the realm of modern social media influencers, it began to morph from a nostalgic reminder of childhood into an interactive culinary challenge for a global audience. The simple ingredients—sugar and baking soda—are accessible enough to allow anyone with a bit of determination to engage in this sweet endeavor. The crafting of dalgona inherently involves patience and skill, elements that viewers of “Squid Game” can relate to as they watched contestants navigate life-and-death scenarios.
Making dalgona is an art, requiring practitioners to balance flavor with technical skill. According to culinary experts, including Sue from My Korean Kitchen, the secret to a successful piece of dalgona lies in temperature control. She advises melting the sugar slowly over low heat to achieve the perfect consistency, avoiding any burnt flavors that might ruin the final product. The alchemy of adding baking soda at the right moment introduces a level of complexity reminiscent of crafting fine desserts.
The blend of culinary techniques used to create dalgona echoes the meticulous nature of the filming process in “Squid Game.” According to director Hwang Dong Hyuk, the production team took great care to maintain authenticity by employing a dalgona expert on set who created fresh candies for each take. The candymaking process became as much a part of the show as its storytelling, intertwining the past with present anxieties. Hwang’s personal reminiscences of using strategic licking techniques to secure his childhood victories add an additional layer of nostalgia, reinforcing the candy’s place not just in history, but in human connection.
Dalgona candy stands as a testament to the creativity inherent in South Korean street food culture. Its simple composition belies the rich stories intertwined with its existence. More than just a treat from a bygone era, dalgona symbolizes nostalgia, resilience, and community, bridging the gap between generations. The fact that it has become a talking point globally speaks to the astonishing power of media to elevate regional foods to cultural phenomena.
As “Squid Game” continues to draw viewers, it revives interest in the cultural narratives of South Korea, with dalgona candy serving as a delicious entry point into understanding the complexities of Korean society. Whether enjoyed as part of a playful challenge or as a window into the past, dalgona candy embodies the unique ability of food to transcend boundaries and connect people. In examining its resurgence, we not only celebrate a culinary delight steeped in memory but also reaffirm the global conversation around cultural identity, heritage, and shared experiences.