Trader Joe's Korean Bugak Sticky Rice and Seaweed Crisps - 1.76 oz

Bugak needs no introduction as a Korean side dish and snack. What makes this one notable is that it's Trader Joe's own version, made with a Korean supplier — the origin really is the Republic of Korea. Seaweed and sticky rice are dried for 15 hours, fried, and seasoned with sesame, salt, onion, and kelp powder. In the US it drew attention as an unusual 'Korean traditional snack, snackified.'

For those who know bugak well, the appeal is curiosity — what does a TJ bugak taste like — and for collectors of overseas Trader Joe's products, it's a special find. The sticky rice makes it a touch sweeter than typical seaweed bugak. (The bag isn't resealable, so finish it promptly once opened.)

• As a snack or side — enjoy it as the bugak you know.
• Topped with tuna or salmon — the bag suggests it as an hors d’oeuvre base.
• Alongside rice or porridge — a crunchy side at the table.
• With beer — salty and crisp, good with a drink.
• As a gift or collectible — a fun TJ-made Korean product.

This one's a good fit if

• You love bugak
• You collect overseas Trader Joe’s products
• You enjoy seaweed snacks
• You want a novelty gift

Bugak is familiar in Korea, but 'a Korean-made bugak from American Trader Joe's' is itself an uncommon talking point. There's fun in seeing how a famous overseas grocer interprets a Korean traditional snack, plus real collectible value for TJ fans. Made in Korea, so quality is reliable too.

A Trader Joe's store exclusive that Korean shoppers can't easily buy domestically.

Shipping is free on every order, with no minimum. There are no handling fees, no customs processing charges, and no hidden costs added at checkout. What you see is what you pay.

Orders are dispatched within 1 to 2 business days of purchase. A tracking number is sent to your email once your order is on its way.

All orders are processed as personal-use overseas purchases, which means they clear Korean customs without requiring KC certification. Shipments are handled using your Personal Customs Clearance Code (PCCC) for full transparency, and you can track your parcel through the Korea Customs Service UNI-PASS portal at any time.

Orders valued under USD 200 from the United States qualify for duty-free clearance under Korea's simplified customs scheme. In the unlikely event that any order encounters a customs issue, we will issue a full refund without question.

If you do not yet have a Personal Customs Clearance Code (PCCC), you can get one free of charge in under five minutes at unipass.customs.go.kr.

Is this authentic?

Yes. Every item is purchased directly from Trader Joe's stores in the US, inspected, and then shipped — 100% authentic.

Why can't I buy this in Korea?

Trader Joe's has no official stores or online shop in Korea. Their products are sold only in US stores, which is exactly what we bring to you through direct import.

What about the expiration date?

Because we purchase every item from the US only after you place your order, we ship products with plenty of shelf life remaining. The exact best-by date is printed on the package.

1. Choose your option and complete your order. A Personal Customs Code (개인통관고유부호) is required.
2. We purchase your item from a US store and inspect its condition.
3. Your order ships by air and goes through Korean customs.
4. As soon as it clears customs, it's delivered to your door by domestic courier.