Meet the Creator of Korea's Viral 'Dubai Chewy Cookie' on MBC's 'The Manager'

Kim Nari, the mastermind behind the viral sensation 'Dubai Chewy Cookie' (Doojonku), is set to appear on MBC's 'The Manager,' stirring excitement across South Korea. Her meeting with Jeon Hyun-moo, known as the 'Trend Terminator,' is highly anticipated.

The 386th episode of MBC's variety show 'The Manager,' airing on the 21st, will showcase a day in the life of Kim Nari, the creator of the 'Doojonku' that has taken South Korea by storm.

The 'Dubai Chewy Cookie' is a dessert made with Middle Eastern ingredients like kadaif and pistachio paste, wrapped in marshmallow skin. Its chewy yet crispy texture has led to a nationwide shortage, with phenomena like the 'Doojonku Map' and even shoe stores selling the cookies. Kim Nari, credited as the originator of this craze, first launched the 'Doojonku' in April 2025. In less than a year, she achieved a monthly revenue of 2.5 billion won and daily sales of 130 million won, marking a life-changing success.

Kim Nari's unique background as a former Navy officer plays a significant role in her success. Known for her exceptional passion, she set records for 'longest flight time' during her service. After discovering a love for baking as a hobby during her military service, she teamed up with her former superior, Yoon Min, to start a business, eventually creating the 'Doojonku' and reaching her current status.

Known for her diligence and meticulous nature since her military days, Kim Nari is the first to arrive and the last to leave the 'Doojonku' factory. She memorizes the names of all 60 employees, checks their conditions daily, and oversees every step from production to shipping, earning admiration. A touching story about her special bond with a delivery driver from the early days of her business will also be shared.

The 'Doojonku' production site, which started in a space of just 9 pyeong, has now expanded to 10 workrooms. The factory produces an average of 30,000 'Doojonku' cookies daily, with 60 employees bustling around, highlighting the ongoing popularity of the treat. Notably, the unique employee benefit of unlimited 'Doojonku' and the consumption of over 800kg of pistachio paste weekly are expected to draw attention.

The highlight of this episode is the meeting between Jeon Hyun-moo, the 'Trend Terminator,' and Kim Nari, the trendsetter. Viewers are eager to see what unfolds in this thrilling encounter between the creator of trends and the one who ends them.

Kim Nari's 'Doojonku'-filled day will be featured on MBC's 'The Manager' on the 21st at 11:10 PM.

Reporter: Kim Ji-won, TenAsia bella@tenasia.co.kr