When you walk through a Korean fruit market or grocery store, you might spot a fruit that looks like a large, golden apple—but it’s not an apple. It’s a Korean pear, also known as bae (๋ฐฐ) in Korean. Though it shares the name “pear” with the European variety, the taste, texture, and shape are quite different.
Let’s take a closer look at how Korean pears differ from European pears, and how they’re enjoyed in Korean culture.
1. Shape & Appearance
The most obvious difference is the shape.
- Korean pears are round, large, and golden-brown in color. They closely resemble apples in shape and often confuse people seeing them for the first time.
- European pears, on the other hand, have a more familiar teardrop shape with green or yellowish skin.
So if you’ve ever thought, “Why are those apples in the pear section?”—you’re probably looking at Korean pears!
2. Texture & Taste
Korean pears are known for their crisp and juicy texture. They’re much firmer than European pears and deliver a refreshing, sweet flavor with every bite.
- Korean pear: crunchy, juicy, sweet, and refreshing
- European pear: softer, sometimes grainy, and often ripens to become very sweet and buttery
Korean pears are typically enjoyed raw, especially in autumn when they’re in season. They’re so juicy that biting into one might feel like drinking juice from fruit.
3. Culinary Uses in Korea
In Korea, pears are not just for snacking. They’re used in traditional Korean cooking, especially in marinades and sauces.
- Galbi marinade: Pear is used to tenderize the meat and add natural sweetness.
- Kimchi-making: Sometimes pear is added for subtle sweetness.
- Festive fruit platters: Pears are commonly included in Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) offerings and holiday desserts.
When cooking, Koreans often peel the pear’s skin, as it can be quite thick and firm.
4. Seasonal & Cultural Significance
Pears hold a special place in Korean tradition:
- During Chuseok, it’s common to gift beautifully wrapped boxes of large Korean pears.
- In traditional ceremonies like jesa (ancestral rites), pears are part of the ritual table.
- Pears also symbolize purity and sincerity, making them a popular gift during formal occasions.
Final Thoughts
Though both Korean and European pears belong to the same fruit family, they’re surprisingly different in look, flavor, and cultural role.
If you’re visiting Korea, don’t miss the chance to try a Korean pear.
You’ll be surprised by its size, its crisp bite, and its natural sweetness—and you might even spot it in your favorite Korean dishes!
Have you tried a Korean pear before? Let us know how it compares to the pears in your country!