A South Korean dessert brand, Tokyo Berry, is facing accusations of closely imitating Japan’s well-known confectionery product Tokyo Banana, raising concerns about potential consumer confusion over the brands’ connection. Tokyo Banana, produced by Japanese company Grapestone, is a banana-shaped sponge cake that has gained widespread popularity.

The allegations emerged after social media users posted side-by-side images comparing the packaging of Tokyo Berry with that of Tokyo Banana, highlighting notable similarities in design. Tokyo Berry, a newly established South Korean food and beverage brand, had been operating pop-up stores in major department stores, including Lotte and Shinsegae, where some locations saw long lines of customers eager to purchase the desserts.

Following the controversy, a department store official confirmed on July 31 that all planned Tokyo Berry pop-up events had been cancelled. The brand’s promotional messaging, which included phrases such as “capturing the flavours of seasonal fruits and the essence of Tokyo,” contributed to consumer perceptions that Tokyo Berry might be a Japanese company, fueling criticism from some online commentators who labeled the situation a “national embarrassment.”

The backlash extended beyond packaging design. Tokyo Berry was also accused of copying the interior wrapping style of Han-jungsun, a premium Korean dessert brand known for using “hanji,” traditional Korean paper, to package its chantssal tteok—a rice cake filled with sweet fillings.

In response to mounting criticism, Tokyo Berry took down its promotional Instagram posts and disabled comments amid consumer concerns about the similarities in product design and branding.

Meanwhile, Grapestone has reportedly initiated a review of the situation. A representative for the Japanese company stated that the issue had been brought to the relevant department and that they are currently examining the matter. No further details have been disclosed at this time.