Seoul city government expands lineup of affordable, low-sugar pastries

Seoul is expanding its signature line of city-branded baked goods, introducing a chestnut-infused version of its popular low-sugar red bean bread to meet rising consumer demand for healthier, everyday treats.

The Seoul Metropolitan Government launched "Seoul Chestnut Red Bean Bread" Monday, the second official installment in its Seoul Bread line, developed in partnership with heritage bakery Koryodang.

The new pastry incorporates whole chestnuts into the filling used in the original Seoul Red Bean Bread, imparting a richer flavor and firmer texture while maintaining roughly 36 percent less sugar than conventional red bean pastries.

The release follows the successful April debut of the initial lineup — featuring classic low-sugar red bean and whole-wheat varieties — which surpassed 80,000 cumulative units sold in approximately 100 days.

Strong consumer interest drove frequent sellouts across retail locations, with shoppers regularly queuing to purchase the city-backed goods shortly after store openings.

Starting Monday, the new chestnut red bean bread is available at designated "Seoul ...