Is Paris Baguette Korean or French?

By Michael Ferguson

If you’re a fan of the Paris Baguette bakery chain, you may have wondered whether it is a Korean or French brand. With over 4,000 locations worldwide, including in the United States, China, and Vietnam, Paris Baguette is known for its delectable pastries and bread. But where did this beloved bakery originate from?

The History of Paris Baguette

Paris Baguette was founded in 1988 by a Korean businessman named Hur Young-in. He opened the first Paris Baguette store in the bustling district of Namdaemun in Seoul, South Korea. The bakery quickly became popular among locals for its high-quality bread and pastries.

The French Influence

Despite its Korean origins, Paris Baguette incorporates many French elements into its branding and products. The name “Paris” in the brand’s name is a nod to the French capital’s reputation as a hub for fashion and culture.

Moreover, many of the recipes used at Paris Baguette are inspired by traditional French baking techniques. The bakery’s croissants are made with butter imported from France, while their baguettes are baked using flour that has been carefully selected to mimic those used in France.

The Korean Twist

While Paris Baguette may borrow heavily from French baking traditions, it also incorporates uniquely Korean flavors into some of its products. For example, their signature “sweet rice doughnut” features a Chewy texture similar to traditional Korean rice cakes.

Moreover, some of their menu items are tailored to local tastes. In Korea, for instance, it is common to eat red bean paste as a dessert filling. As such, Paris Baguette offers pastries filled with this sweet bean paste alongside more traditional flavors like chocolate and custard.

Conclusion

So is Paris Baguette Korean or French? The answer is both.

While the bakery’s founder hails from Korea, Paris Baguette has embraced French baking traditions and incorporated them into their products. At the same time, they’ve added Korean flavors to their menu to appeal to local tastes. This blend of cultural influences has helped make Paris Baguette a truly unique and beloved brand worldwide.