A controversy is growing online over a domestic fresh fruit mochi brand sold even in department stores, "Tokyo Berry," with critics pointing out its striking resemblance to the famous Japanese dessert brand "Tokyo Banana."

The controversy began with the packaging design.

Reactions poured in noting that the illustration's expression and placement, the English font and letter spacing of the brand logo, and the overall packaging design are nearly identical to those of Tokyo Banana.

Some consumers reacted by saying, "I thought it was a new product from Tokyo Banana," or "I thought it was a new brand from the same company."


The promotional methods also came under fire.

Tokyo Berry used the slogan "The Tokyo sensibility just as it is" and introduced itself at pop-up stores as "Japanese premium fresh fruit mochi," drawing criticism for leading people to mistake it for an actual Japanese brand.

Some department stores that hosted the pop-ups have taken action, such as canceling additional events or considering early termination.

As the controversy escalated, Tokyo Berry switched most of the promotional posts on its official social media to private.

(Photo Source: Online Community)