Banana Kick Snack Gains Unexpected Popularity Among Celebrities

Nongshim's long-standing snack 'Banana Kick' is unexpectedly gaining attention among celebrities. Recently, an online community was abuzz with a photo of IU holding a giant Banana Kick, capturing the public's interest. Additionally, Jennie from BLACKPINK mentioned Banana Kick as her 'favorite' snack on a U.S. TV program.

According to industry sources on the 1st, a photo of singer and actress IU and child actress Kim Tae-yeon holding a giant Banana Kick was posted on an online community on the 24th of last month. The snack in the photo was labeled 'Oae-soon Kick' instead of Banana Kick.

Oae-soon is the name of the character played by IU in the popular Netflix drama 'You Have Done Well.' In the drama, Kim Tae-yeon portrayed the younger version of Oae-soon. In the photo, IU is seen holding the giant 'Oae-soon Kick' closely with Kim Tae-yeon. The snack features the phrase 'rebellious like a mischievous potato,' a line from the drama.

Jennie from BLACKPINK named Banana Kick as her "favorite snack" on a U.S. TV program. She appeared on the 'Jennifer Hudson Show' on the 10th of last month, showcasing Banana Kick and stating, "It's been my favorite snack since childhood. You can taste a special banana flavor."

A representative from Nongshim stated, "Neither instance was a product placement request. The 'Oae-soon Kick' was a gift from a fan club who knew IU liked Banana Kick. We only learned about Jennie's mention of Banana Kick on the U.S. show after it aired." The representative added, "We hope this will improve consumer perception of Banana Kick."

Byung-hoon Yang, reporter hun@tenasia.co.kr