KPop Demon Hunters Sparks Korean Food Boom in Australian Schools

With the rise of KPop Demon Hunters, an intriguing trend is shaping Australian school lunches: the increasing popularity of Korean-inspired meals. This surge is directly influenced by the crossover between Korean pop culture and children’s daily food choices.

Korean Food Boom in Australian Schools

Recent data from Flexischools reveals a staggering 200% increase in orders of Korean-style meals across Australian schools since the beginning of 2025. This shift marks a significant departure from traditional staples such as sausage rolls and party pies.

Key Data and Statistics

• 200%: Rise in Korean-inspired meal orders since 2025.
• Sushi: Overtook sausage rolls as the most popular school lunch choice in 2025.
• High-protein meals: Increasingly preferred by students for their nutritious value.
• 71%: Percentage of dual-income families in Australia struggling to balance work and school commitments.

Flexischools CEO Rachel Debeck attributes this trend to the influence of youth culture, emphasizing that children today are proactive about their food choices. “Kids are driving many of the trends we’re now observing in school canteens and tuckshops,” Debeck stated.

The Influence of K-Pop and Pop Culture

The global growth of K-pop has played a critical role in bringing Korean cuisine to the forefront. Popular dishes like bulgogi beef bowls and Korean flame-grilled chicken burgers have become regular features in school canteens. This trend reflects a larger evolution in children’s palates, showcasing a shift toward global cuisine.

Broader Culinary Trends in Schools

The surge in Korean cuisine is indicative of a larger transformation within Australian school food. As new tastes emerge, more diverse international flavors are entering school menus.

Emerging Global Flavors

• Korean meals are now paired with dishes from other cuisines like Japanese and Indian.
• Butter chicken has recorded over half a million orders in Australian schools.
• Asian-inspired meals are gaining traction across multiple states.

This shift signifies that “Australian school food” is modernizing and expanding to reflect the country’s cultural diversity. Debeck remarked, “School canteens today look nothing like they did 20 years ago.”

Changing Family Dynamics and Canteen Choices

Changing family routines are impacting student lunch choices. Many parents are turning to canteens for convenience, given that both parents in many households are working. Canteens provide a solution that saves time, with some families saving over 100 hours annually compared to preparing lunches at home.

Nutritional Preferences

Korean dishes fit well with rising nutritional demands among students. The meals emphasize familiar ingredients like rice and chicken, are rich in protein, and include vegetables. This caters to children’s needs for balanced, nutritious meals while being easy to prepare in a school setting.

Staying Power of Nostalgia

While Korean-inspired meals are gaining popularity, classic school lunch favorites remain on the menu. Party pies, jelly cups, and Zooper Doopers still enjoy considerable orders. The modern canteen experience combines both nostalgia and innovation, resulting in a rich variety for students.

The Future of School Lunches

Looking ahead, it’s evident that Korean-inspired meals are not just a fleeting trend. They have become embedded in school menus, aligning with ongoing shifts in family life and cultural influences. As Australian schools continue to diversify their offerings, expect a culinary landscape that reflects both tradition and modern global tastes.