Son Heung-Min’s ‘Devastated’ Reaction to Tasting Jaffa Cakes and Pickled Onions for the First Time…..
Son Heung-Min, Tottenham Hotspur’s beloved star and South Korean sensation, is known for his dazzling performances on the pitch and his infectious smile off it. However, in a recent lighter moment that has since gone viral, the footballer was caught off-guard when introduced to two iconic British snacks—Jaffa Cakes and pickled onions. What followed was an unexpected reaction that left fans around the globe both amused and empathetic.
The Setup: A Cultural Taste Test
Son, often referred to as “Sonny” by his teammates, has embraced English culture since joining Tottenham in 2015. From adapting to the Premier League’s fast-paced style to charming fans with his humility and cheerful demeanor, Son has become an integral part of both the team and the broader football community.
In a recent feature designed to explore the lighter side of players’ personalities, Son was invited to try a selection of quintessentially British snacks. Among the options were Jaffa Cakes—soft sponge biscuits with a tangy orange filling and a chocolate coating—and pickled onions, a staple in British pub culture.
The challenge seemed innocent enough. Yet, it quickly turned into an unforgettable moment when Son’s typically radiant smile gave way to a look of sheer devastation.
The Moment of Truth: Tasting Jaffa Cakes
First on the menu was the Jaffa Cake, a snack beloved by millions in the UK but somewhat unusual for those unfamiliar with its hybrid nature. Is it a cake? Is it a biscuit? This debate aside, Son approached the treat with an open mind.
As he took his first bite, the camera captured his expression shifting from curiosity to confusion. While some fans speculated he might enjoy the combination of textures and flavors, his reaction told a different story.
“His face said it all,” joked one of the production team members present. “He didn’t even need to speak!”
After a few seconds of chewing, Son finally shared his verdict: “I don’t know what this is supposed to be. It’s not bad, but… it’s very strange!” His tone suggested that while he didn’t outright dislike the snack, it was far from becoming a favorite.
The Ultimate Test: Pickled Onions
Next came the pickled onion, a far cry from the sweet-and-tangy Jaffa Cake. Known for their sharp, tangy flavor and strong vinegar aroma, pickled onions are an acquired taste even among some Britons.
As soon as the jar was opened, Son’s reaction was priceless. The pungent smell made him hesitate, but with characteristic bravery, he decided to take the plunge. The moment he bit into the onion, his face crumpled in a way that can only be described as pure devastation.
“Oh no! What is this?” Son exclaimed, visibly struggling to swallow the bite. “This is so sour—it’s attacking my mouth!”
The room erupted in laughter, but Son was not amused. “I think British people are too strong,” he added with a playful grimace, suggesting that the snack was simply too intense for his palate.
Fans React: A Global Phenomenon
Unsurprisingly, the footage of Son’s reactions quickly spread across social media, delighting fans worldwide. Memes and jokes flooded platforms like Twitter and Instagram, with fans from different countries weighing in on their own experiences with the snacks.
“Korean food is spicy, but even Son couldn’t handle the British pickled onion!” one fan joked.
Another commented, “Jaffa Cakes broke him… but the pickled onion finished him off!”
In South Korea, where Son is a national hero, the video sparked curiosity about British snacks. Some fans expressed eagerness to try the infamous pickled onion themselves, while others defended Son’s reaction, pointing out that such flavors are vastly different from traditional Korean cuisine.
Son’s Response: Laughing at Himself
True to his easy-going nature, Son took the experience in stride. Speaking about the moment later, he admitted that the snacks were not to his taste but appreciated the chance to try something new.
“It’s always fun to experience different cultures,” he said in a follow-up interview. “Even if I didn’t like the pickled onions, I can now say I’ve tried them! But maybe next time, I’ll stick to kimchi.”
His self-deprecating humor and willingness to step out of his comfort zone only endeared him further to fans.
Cultural Exchange in Football
Son’s taste test serves as a reminder of the cultural exchanges that happen within the global world of football. With players from diverse backgrounds coming together, moments like these highlight the importance of understanding and embracing different traditions.
For British fans, it was a chance to see their favorite snacks through fresh eyes, while for Korean fans, it was a window into the quirks of British cuisine.
What’s Next for Son?
While Son may not be rushing to add pickled onions to his diet anytime soon, he continues to be a source of joy both on and off the field. As Tottenham captain, he leads with passion and positivity, proving that his influence extends far beyond the pitch.
In the meantime, fans are already speculating about what food challenges Son might face next. Marmite? Black pudding? Only time will tell—but one thing is certain: whatever the challenge, Son’s reactions will continue to entertain and delight his supporters.
Conclusion
Son Heung-Min’s ‘devastated’ reaction to trying Jaffa Cakes and pickled onions is more than just a humorous anecdote; it’s a celebration of cultural curiosity and connection. By stepping out of his comfort zone, Son not only gave fans a glimpse into his personality but also reminded everyone that laughter and shared experiences transcend borders.
Whether you’re team Jaffa Cake or a pickled onion enthusiast, one thing’s for sure: Son’s taste test has brought people together in a way only he can.
