Korean dessert brand Tokyo Berry faces backlash over similarities to Japan's Tokyo Banana
Tokyo Berry's packaging, branding and name have sparked comparisons with Japan's famous Tokyo Banana, with consumers accusing the brand of being too similar.
Korean dessert brand Tokyo Berry has faced backlash after being accused of closely resembling Japan's renowned Tokyo Banana confection. The brand, launched in June and featuring pop-up stores in major Seoul department stores, drew comparisons to the Japanese product based on its packaging, branding, and name. Consumers pointed to similarities such as the serif, all-capitalized logo, fruit illustrations, stamp-style graphics, and pastel-colored packaging, as well as the use of the word "Tokyo" in the brand's name.
Tokyo Berry's promotional tagline, "capturing the flavors of fresh seasonal fruits and the essence of Tokyo," further fueled the perception that it was a Japanese brand. Following the controversy, several planned pop-up stores in South Korea were canceled, and Tokyo Berry disabled comments on its social media account. The company, which has not commented on the allegations, noted that Grapestone, the operator of Tokyo Banana, has acknowledged the issue and is reviewing the details, though no legal action has been announced.
Tokyo Banana, introduced in 1991 by Japanese company Grapestone, has become one of Japan's most recognizable food souvenirs, sold in various locations across the country and even in Singapore.
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