Shi Shi (孙盛希) returns with “Tteokbokki,” a heartfelt English-Korean single inspired by childhood memories, friendship, and her Korean roots.
Golden Melody Award-winning singer-songwriter Shi Shi (孙盛希) returns with her new English-Korean single, “Tteokbokki.” The release marks her second multilingual track following “Falling in Love” earlier this year. More importantly, it offers a more personal side of the acclaimed artist as she draws inspiration from cherished childhood memories instead of romantic relationships.
Growing up in South Korea, Shi Shi associates tteokbokki, the country’s iconic spicy rice cake, with much more than food. For her, it represents youth, comfort, and the friendships that shaped her early years. Those memories now become the emotional foundation of her latest release.
“Tteokbokki”: A Taste of Youth and Friendship
Unlike many of her previous songs, “Tteokbokki” centers on the memories created around food and the people who shared those moments. Rather than exploring romance, Shi Shi celebrates genuine friendships that remain comforting, meaningful, and increasingly rare as life moves forward.
Musically, the single blends soft melodies with warm retro influences. Shi Shi teamed up with Chinese American producer Morrison Ma (MOSUN), who helped craft the track’s nostalgic atmosphere. Together, they created a gentle sound that reflects the warmth of looking back on treasured memories.
Adding another personal touch, the song opens with a slice-of-life recording captured by Shi Shi herself at a bustling Korean market. Consequently, listeners are immediately transported into the lively environment that inspired the song. This subtle detail deepens the emotional connection while reinforcing the track’s themes of home, familiarity, and belonging.
A New Chapter for Shi Shi
“Tteokbokki” also serves as the final preview of Shi Shi’s upcoming EP, The Taste Of…, scheduled for release on July 10. Notably, the project marks her first English-based EP and features songs in English, Mandarin, and Korean. Through this multilingual approach, she honors both her South Korean heritage and her career in Taiwan.
Shi Shi has already established herself as one of Taiwan’s most respected artists. She earned both Best Female Singer and Best Album honors at the prestigious Golden Melody Awards.
In addition, she gained widespread recognition through “Someday or One Day,” the theme song for the hit Taiwanese drama Someday or One Day. More recently, she collaborated with South Korean jazz artist Lee Jin-ah on “Goodbye Spring,” further strengthening her presence across Taiwan and South Korea.
With “Tteokbokki,” Shi Shi embraces her roots while opening the next chapter of her career. At the same time, she transforms everyday memories into heartfelt music that resonates across cultures. Ultimately, the single reflects both where she comes from and where her artistry is headed next.
If you enjoyed “Tteokbokki,” you might also like Shi Shi’s other songs:
