Korean dessert brand Tokyo Berry accused of copying Japan's Tokyo Banana

A new South Korean dessert brand, Tokyo Berry, is embroiled in controversy over allegations that its products bear a striking resemblance to Japan's well-known Tokyo Banana confectionery. Consumers have taken to social media, sharing side-by-side comparisons of the packaging, sparking claims that Tokyo Berry is intentionally misleading customers into believing the brands are connected.

Tokyo Berry, which recently launched and operated pop-up stores in major South Korean department stores like Lotte and Shinsegae, attracted significant attention, with some locations seeing long queues. However, the brand's marketing, which included phrases like "capturing the flavours of seasonal fruits and the essence of Tokyo," further fueled the perception among some consumers that it was a Japanese product.

The backlash has intensified, with some online users describing the situation as a "national embarrassment" upon realizing Tokyo Berry is a Korean brand allegedly inspired by Tokyo Banana. The criticism has extended to the product's inner packaging, with accusations that Tokyo Berry copied the wrapping style of Hanjungsun, a premium Korean dessert brand that uses traditional Korean paper, "hanji," for its products.

In response to the growing criticism, Tokyo Berry has taken down promotional Instagram posts and disabled comments. Meanwhile, Grapestone, the Japanese company behind Tokyo Banana, has stated that it is reviewing the matter. "We have shared the issue with the relevant department and are currently reviewing the details," a company representative was quoted as saying by local media. Department store officials confirmed on July 31 that all future Tokyo Berry pop-up stores have been canceled.

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We have shared the issue with the relevant department and are currently reviewing the details.