Exhibiting at Thaifex - Anuga Asia 2025

Uiryeong Manggae Ricecake, also known as "Kim Ga-Ne Manggaetteok," is a traditional rice cake business located in Uiryeong-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea. Renowned for preserving Korea’s culinary heritage, the company specializes in crafting the iconic Manggae Rice Cake (Manggaetteok), a specialty rooted in the southern provinces of Korea.

Core Business and Product Offering

The company’s flagship product is the Manggae Rice Cake, a meticulously handmade delicacy consisting of:

• Glutinous rice dough
• Sweet red bean paste filling
• Berchemia leaf (Manggae) wrapping, which adds a subtle fragrance and preserves freshness

This traditional rice cake is especially popular during ancestral rites, holidays, and regional festivals in Korea. The company emphasizes freshness and authenticity by producing all cakes locally using traditional methods and regional ingredients.

Specialization and Unique Selling Proposition

Manggae Ricecake’s unique value lies in:

• Regional Authenticity: The product is a hallmark of Uiryeong, often associated with regional pride and heritage.
• Natural Preservatives: The use of manggae leaves not only infuses a delicate scent but also provides a natural preservative quality.
• Cultural Craftsmanship: Each rice cake is handmade, showcasing a labor-intensive process passed down through generations.
• Limited Production: The artisanal nature limits production to ensure quality, attracting premium buyers and gift market segments.

Market Reach and Recognition

While primarily serving the local market in Gyeongsangnam-do, Manggae Ricecake has also gained visibility across South Korea due to:

• Cultural promotions by Visit Korea and local tourism boards
• Features in culinary documentaries and YouTube videos
• Participation in food fairs and traditional craft exhibitions

The product is often highlighted in Korean food heritage programs, emphasizing its significance in traditional celebrations and rites.

Production and Supply Chain

The rice cakes are produced in small batches and are usually pre-ordered due to their perishable nature. The company utilizes:

• Locally sourced glutinous rice
• Hand-selected red beans
• Berchemia leaves for wrapping (sourced from clean forest areas in the region)

The production process adheres to hygienic standards suited for fresh food processing but retains traditional non-industrial methods.

Certifications and Compliance

Though specific export certifications are not publicly listed, the business aligns with local Korean food safety and small producer regulations. It is often supported under regional agricultural cooperatives or local food heritage initiatives.

Target Market

• Local residents for daily and ceremonial consumption
• Cultural tourists seeking authentic Korean confections
• Gourmet and traditional gift buyers
• Retailers of regional specialty products and traditional snacks

Videos and Cultural Presence

One of the widely viewed YouTube videos demonstrating Manggae Rice Cake making has received positive attention:

• Manggaetteok rice cake demonstration: Watch Video

This reflects growing interest among food enthusiasts and cultural explorers into Korea’s heritage foods.

Challenges and Opportunities

The primary challenge lies in scaling a perishable, handmade product while retaining its authenticity. However, with growing global interest in K-culture and traditional wellness foods, Manggae Ricecake has potential for curated exports and high-end ethnic food markets if equipped with suitable packaging and certifications.

Major Achievements

• Recognized as a traditional specialty of Uiryeong by local tourism and government entities
• Gained national attention through food tourism campaigns and cultural media
• Consistently featured in Korean culinary storytelling and documentary content

Uiryeong Manggae Ricecake stands as a living embodiment of Korean cultural food heritage, offering an authentic, sensory-rich experience that combines history, craftsmanship, and taste in every bite.