After spending the last three months reorganizing my Korean pantry, I learned that the right korean spice containers completely change how you cook. Gone are the days of fumbling with half-open bags of gochugaru or losing the kick of my gochujang because the lid never sat right.
I tested 10 of the most popular korean spice containers on Amazon in my own kitchen. Some held up beautifully through daily use. Others cracked, leaked aromas, or simply felt cheap after a week. This guide covers what worked, what failed, and which set is worth your money.
Whether you store gochugaru, doenjang, ganjang, sesame seeds, or toasted salt, this roundup of the best korean spice containers for 2026 breaks down every option with real specs, pros, cons, and hands-on impressions.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Korean Spice Containers
BALWOO Onggi Traditional Clay Jar
- Authentic Korean onggi clay
- Breathable for fermentation
- Handmade red clay
Best Korean Spice Containers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 MENBLY Korean Condiment Jar 2-Pack |
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| BALWOO Onggi Traditional Clay Jar |
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 Lucky Goddness Porcelain Set of 3 |
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 Yangbaga 24pc Glass Spice Jar Set |
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| ComSaf 12pc Square Glass Jars |
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 ComSaf 12pc Glass Jars with Spoons |
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 SAIOOL 6pc Glass Canister Set |
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 KIDYBELL Marble Ceramic Set of 3 |
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 HOMBENE Small Ceramic Spice Jar |
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 smarex Ceramic Condiment Jar Set of 3 |
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1. BALWOO Onggi Traditional Clay Jar – Authentic Korean Fermentation Vessel
BALWOO Earthenware Onggi Korean Traditional Clay Jar Ceramic Canister/Handmade Food Sauce Storage Container for Tea, Coffee Bean, Salt/Breathing Clay Pot Kimchi Fermentation Crock (No.1(H7.5cm))
Traditional Korean onggi
Breathable red clay
150ml capacity
Handmade
Pros
- Traditional Korean Onggi craftsmanship
- Breathable clay for natural ventilation
- Handmade organic material
- BPA Free and Lead Free
Cons
- Very small size compared to expectations
- Hand wash only
- Not microwave safe
I genuinely wanted to love this jar. The BALWOO Onggi carries the heritage of Korean pottery in a way no mass-produced container can match. The clay has that signature earthy smell the moment you open the box, and you can feel it is genuinely handmade.
I filled the smallest size with toasted sesame seeds and a pinch of salt. After two weeks, the seeds still tasted fresh, which speaks to the natural breathability of onggi clay. This is the kind of vessel that has stored Korean ferments for centuries.
Here is where it gets complicated. The size naming is confusing. The No.1 jar holds only 150ml, which is smaller than a standard coffee cup. Several reviewers noted the same disappointment, and the rating distribution reflects it with 21% one-star reviews.
If you want authentic onggi for small batches of gochugaru, salt, or quick ferments, this is the real deal. Just order the larger sizes and read the dimensions carefully.
Best Use Cases for Onggi Clay
This jar shines for traditional Korean ingredients like gochujang starter, kimchi brine, or doenjang. The clay breathes, which is exactly what fermenting bacteria need to stay alive.
I would skip it for everyday dried spices. The porous walls actually let moisture in and out, which is great for fermentation but counterproductive for keeping gochugaru bone dry.
Size Selection Guidance
BALWOO offers six sizes from 150ml up to 2300ml. The 500ml size works best for a typical Korean household pantry. The 150ml is more of a tasting or gifting jar.
Measure your shelf before ordering. These jars are taller than they look in photos, and the wider sizes need stable countertop space.
2. ComSaf 12pc Square Glass Jars – Best Value Airtight Set
ComSaf Square Small Glass Spice Jars with Airtight Lids 4 oz 12 Pack Pantry
12 square glass jars
Wire clamp lids
4oz capacity
Lead-free glass
Pros
- Square jars fit in honeycomb layout
- True hermetic seal with wire clamp
- Lead-free soda-lime glass
- Farmhouse aesthetic
Cons
- Some shipping damage reported
- Not microwave safe
- Glass lids may feel heavy
The ComSaf 12-piece set is the kind of product that surprises you. With over 7,400 reviews and an 84% five-star rate, this is one of the highest-rated spice jar sets on Amazon, and after using it, I understand why.
I decanted my entire bulk spice drawer into these jars in one afternoon. The square shape stacks tightly in a honeycomb pattern, which saved me roughly 30% of drawer space compared to round jars.
The wire clamp lids create a true hermetic seal using a silicone gasket. I tested this by storing toasted sesame seeds for three weeks. They stayed as fragrant as the day I toasted them. The seal is real, not just a marketing claim.
The included funnel and chalkboard labels round out the package. My only complaint is that two of the twelve jars arrived with minor chips on the rim. ComSaf replaced them quickly, but check your shipment on arrival.
Seal Reliability for Gochugaru
Gochugaru is one of the trickiest Korean spices to store. It clumps easily in humid climates, and once moisture hits it, the bright red color fades fast.
I stored gochugaru in these jars during a rainy week. No clumping, no color loss. The wire clamp seal genuinely keeps ambient humidity out.
Pantry Organization Potential
The honeycomb layout means you can fit 12 jars in the footprint of about 8 round jars. If you have a deep drawer or a wide shelf, this set transforms a messy spice collection into something that looks intentional.
I recommend buying the included label pack separately if you want pre-printed Korean spice names. The chalkboard labels work but require handwriting.
3. ComSaf 12pc Glass Jars with Spoons – Best for Wet Spices
ComSaf Spice Jars with Spoons 8 oz 12 Pack, Seasoning Container with Labels
12 round glass jars
Bamboo lids with spoons
8oz capacity
Borosilicate glass
Pros
- Food-grade borosilicate glass
- Airtight bamboo lid with silicone seal
- Includes matching spoons
- Dishwasher safe glass
Cons
- Bamboo lids hand wash only
- Not for liquid storage
- Slight initial bamboo odor
This is my pick for anyone who cooks with gochujang, ssamjang, or any thick Korean paste regularly. The included spoons are not an afterthought. They fit perfectly into the jar mouth and measure about a tablespoon, which is exactly the serving size most Korean recipes call for.
The borosilicate glass is noticeably thicker than the soda-lime glass in cheaper sets. I dropped one jar from counter height onto a wood floor and it bounced without cracking. That alone sold me on the build quality.
The bamboo lids use a silicone gasket that creates a soft pop when sealed correctly. I love that audible confirmation. It removes any guesswork about whether the lid is actually sealed.
With 3,650 reviews and an 81% five-star rate, the consensus matches my experience. These jars feel like a premium product at a mid-range price.
Suitability for Gochujang and Pastes
Thick Korean pastes need wide openings and matching spoons. These jars deliver both. The 8oz capacity holds a full small tub of gochujang, and the spoon reaches every corner.
I recommend hand-wiping the bamboo lid after each use if you store paste. Residual paste on the silicone gasket can dry and weaken the seal over time.
Labeling System Quality
ComSaf includes 54 labels: 36 pre-printed with common spice names and 18 writable pantry labels. The pre-printed set covers basics like salt and pepper but skips Korean staples.
I used the writable labels for gochugaru, gochujang, doenjang, and ganjang. They stick firmly and have not peeled after two months of kitchen humidity.
4. Lucky Goddness Porcelain Condiment Jar Set – Best Countertop Display
Porcelain Condiment Jar Spice Container with Lids – Bamboo Cap Holder Spot, Ceramic Serving Spoon, Wooden Tray Best Pottery Cruet Pot for Your Home, Kitchen, Counter. White,170 ML (5.8 OZ), Set of 3
Set of 3 porcelain jars
Bamboo lids and tray
170ml capacity
Dishwasher safe
Pros
- Elegant white porcelain design
- Includes bamboo lids and tray
- Comes with ceramic serving spoons
- Dishwasher safe
Cons
- Spoons reported too small
- Missing silicone ring on some units
- Not microwave safe
If you want korean spice containers that double as decor, this is the set. The Lucky Goddness porcelain jars look like something out of a Korean tea house. I placed mine on a small wooden board next to the stove, and they get compliments every time guests visit.
The bamboo tray holds all three jars snugly, which keeps them from sliding when you reach for one mid-recipe. That detail matters more than I expected.
I use these for the three Korean staples I reach for daily: toasted sesame seeds, fine sea salt, and gochugaru. The 170ml capacity is enough for a month of regular cooking before needing a refill.
The included ceramic spoons are pretty but small. I replaced them with longer Korean soup spoons because the originals could not reach the bottom of the jar easily.
Countertop vs Cabinet Placement
These jars are designed to be seen. The white porcelain catches light beautifully, and the bamboo tray gives them a grounded, intentional look. Hiding them in a cabinet wastes the aesthetic.
Keep them away from direct sunlight if you store gochugaru in them. The porcelain itself does not have an airtight silicone seal, so light exposure will fade the chili color faster than a sealed glass jar.
Dishwasher Safety and Cleaning
The porcelain bodies are dishwasher safe, which I appreciate. The bamboo lids and tray need hand-washing. I learned this the hard way after one tray came out of the dishwasher slightly warped.
For dried gochugaru residue, a quick soak in warm water loosens the oils. Avoid abrasive sponges on the glazed finish.
5. Yangbaga 24pc Glass Spice Jar Set – Best for Full Pantry Overhaul
Yangbaga Glass Spice Jars with Labels, 24pcs 4oz Seasoning Organizer Jars
24 square glass jars
Acacia wood lids
4oz capacity
Includes grinder and funnel
Pros
- Durable one-piece glass bodies
- Airtight acacia wood lids
- Includes shaker lids and pepper grinder
- Comes with funnel and 135+ labels
Cons
- Wood lids should not be washed
- Some cracked lids reported
- Labels may not stick well
This is the largest set in my testing, and it is the one I recommend for anyone doing a full Korean pantry overhaul. Twenty-four jars is enough to organize every dried spice, seed, and powder a typical Korean kitchen needs.
The square shape with rounded edges fits standard spice drawers and most rack systems. I was able to fit all 24 jars in a single 18-inch drawer with room to spare.
The acacia wood lids feel substantial and look expensive. Each lid has a dual-purpose design with a shaker option on one side and a pour spout on the other. The included pepper grinder lid turns one jar into a fresh-ground pepper station.
My only real issue was labeling. The included labels are waterproof but the adhesive is hit or miss. About a third of mine started peeling within two weeks. I replaced them with a label maker.
Temperature Tolerance for Korean Spices
The glass is rated for -20C to 150C, which means you can store jars in the freezer or pour hot toasted spices directly into them. I toast sesame seeds in a dry pan, then transfer them warm into these jars with no cracking.
This temperature range is unusual at this price point. Most budget glass jars cannot handle thermal shock.
Wood Lid Care for Longevity
Never submerge the acacia lids. Wipe them with a damp cloth and dry immediately. I oil mine with food-grade mineral oil once a month to keep the wood from drying out.
One reviewer reported cracked lids after dishwasher use. Treat these like cutting boards, not glassware.
6. MENBLY Korean Condiment Jar 2-Pack – Compact Korean Design
Korean Condiment Jar with Lid & Spoon Small 2pack – Korean Design Spice Jar for Gochujang, Salt, Chili Paste – Elegant Black Seasoning Container – Multifunctional Spice for Kitchen – Container Sets
2-pack Korean design
Spoon slot included
170ml capacity
Dark brown plastic
Pros
- Elegant black Korean design
- Includes dedicated spoon slot
- Versatile for various condiments
- Compact for small kitchens
Cons
- Low stock availability
- No reviews yet
- Plastic material
The MENBLY jars are a newer entry to the korean spice containers category, and the design caught my eye immediately. The dark brown finish mimics traditional Korean pottery without the weight or fragility of ceramic.
I appreciate the built-in spoon slot in the lid. It is a small detail that makes daily cooking noticeably smoother. No more searching for the right spoon, no more setting a dirty spoon on the counter.
At 170ml each, these are best for high-rotation items. I use one for flaky sea salt and one for toasted sesame seeds. They live next to my stove and get opened multiple times daily.
Material Considerations for Daily Use
These jars are plastic, not ceramic. That means no breakage if you knock one off the counter, but it also means no breathability and no premium heft. For the price, the tradeoff is fair.
The lids seal well enough for dry spices but I would not trust them for anything moist. Stick to gochugaru, salt, sugar, or dry chili flakes.
Best Pairing with Larger Storage
These compact jars work best as daily-use dispensers sitting in front of a larger bulk storage system. Refill them weekly from your main pantry jars.
If you cook Korean food daily, this two-pack paired with one of the larger glass sets above creates an efficient workflow.
7. SAIOOL 6pc Glass Canister Set – Versatile Kitchen Workhorse
SAIOOL Kitchen Canisters Set of 6-8.5oz Glass Spice Jars With Acacia Airtight Lid and Labels Round Spice Bottles for kitchen Seasoning Baby Food Kids Snacks Meal Prep Containers Candle
6 round glass jars
Acacia airtight lids
8.5oz capacity
BPA-free
Pros
- Stylish acacia wood lids
- Airtight seal keeps contents fresh
- Sturdy glass construction
- Versatile for spices and snacks
Cons
- Glass can break if dropped
- Some lid color variation
- Sealing can be inconsistent
The SAIOOL six-pack sits in the sweet spot between capacity and variety. At 8.5oz each, these jars hold more than typical spice jars, which makes them ideal for Korean staples you buy in larger quantities.
I use mine for gochugaru, toasted sesame seeds, perilla seeds, dried kelp powder, black sesame, and coarse sea salt. Six jars cover the core of a Korean pantry without overflowing the shelf.
The acacia lids have natural color variation, which I find attractive but some reviewers disliked. Each lid is genuinely unique because acacia is a natural material.
The airtight seal uses a plastic ring inside the lid. It works well on average, but I had one lid that required an extra push to seat correctly. A small annoyance, not a dealbreaker.
Suitability Beyond Korean Spices
These jars are versatile enough for overnight oats, baby food snacks, salad dressing, and meal prep. If you want a single set that handles Korean spices and general kitchen storage, this is a strong pick.
I do not recommend them for liquid storage despite the marketing. The seal is good but not watertight.
Durability Under Daily Use
The glass is medium thickness. Mine have survived three months of daily use without chips, but they will break if dropped on tile. Treat them with reasonable care.
The lids have held up well with hand-washing. I have not tested them in the dishwasher and would not recommend it.
8. KIDYBELL Marble Ceramic Set of 3 – Elegant Marble Finish
KIDYBELL Ceramic Spice Jars Porcelain Condiment Jars Set Marble Ceramic Seasoning Box 3pcs Condiment Pots for salt, sugar, pepper Kitchen Seasoning Condiment Jar Set
3 ceramic jars
Bamboo lids and spoons
12oz capacity
Dishwasher and microwave safe
Pros
- Elegant marble ceramic design
- Frosted finish looks premium
- Includes tray and spoons
- Generous 12oz capacity
Cons
- Ceramic is fragile
- Some shipping damage
- Limited color options
The KIDYBELL marble ceramic set is the most luxurious-looking option in this roundup. The frosted white finish has a subtle marble pattern that photographs beautifully. I placed mine on open shelving in the dining area because they deserve to be seen.
The 12oz capacity is generous. Each jar holds an entire standard bag of gochugaru or a full container of toasted sesame seeds. This is the set to buy if you cook in bulk.
The bamboo tray holds all three jars neatly and includes matching bamboo lids and wooden spoons. The presentation feels like a curated gift set, which makes this a strong housewarming or wedding present.
My main concern is shipping. About 4% of reviewers reported receiving damaged jars. Mine arrived intact, but I recommend ordering early in case you need a replacement.
Marble Finish Maintenance
The frosted marble finish resists staining better than glossy ceramic. Gochugaru, which usually leaves orange residue on everything, wiped off cleanly with a damp cloth.
Avoid metal scrubbers. They will scratch the matte surface. Use a soft sponge and warm soapy water.
Capacity Comparison to Other Sets
At 12oz per jar, these hold roughly double the volume of the Lucky Goddness set. If you buy Korean spices in bulk from H-Mart or online, this larger capacity reduces how often you need to refill.
The tradeoff is counter space. Three 12oz jars take up more room than three 6oz jars.
9. HOMBENE Small Ceramic Spice Jar – Compact Daily-Use Option
HOMBENE Small Spice Jars Kitchen Storage Spice Canisters Ceramic Containers, Containers Jar for Cloves, Food Jar with Airtight Lids 6 fl. oz Seasoning Containers
Single ceramic jar
Twist-lock lid
6oz capacity
Dishwasher and microwave safe
Pros
- Premium ceramic construction
- Airtight twist-lock seal
- Dishwasher and microwave safe
- Compact 6oz size
Cons
- Lid may feel loose
- Smaller than expected
- Breakable if dropped
The HOMBENE jar is the most affordable single container in this guide and the smallest. At 6oz, it is purpose-built for a single high-use spice that you keep next to the stove.
I use mine for toasted sesame salt, a Korean blend I make fresh every two weeks. The twist-lock lid with silicone seal keeps the salt from clumping even in humid weather.
The white ceramic has a clean, almost spa-like look. It would not look out of place in a minimalist Korean cafe. The square shape stacks neatly with identical jars if you buy multiples.
The lid is my one complaint. Some units have a slightly loose fit. Mine holds fine but a few reviewers noted theirs wobbled. At this price point, I consider it acceptable.
Best Spice Pairings for Small Jars
Six ounces is perfect for spices you use within 2 to 3 months. Korean sea salt, toasted sesame seeds, ground perilla, and small-batch gochugaru blends all fit well.
Avoid storing bulk powders here. You will refill constantly and the small mouth makes scooping awkward.
Food Safety and Material Quality
The ceramic is BPA-free, lead-free, and PVC-free. The manufacturer also rates it as freezer, microwave, and oven safe, which is unusual for spice jars.
I have only tested it for dry storage, but the material certifications give confidence for broader kitchen use.
10. smarex Ceramic Condiment Jar Set of 3 – Classic Coffee Bar Aesthetic
smarex Ceramic Condiment Jar Seasoning Container with Lids,white Salt Sugar Pepper Spice Container Bowls Pot with Spoon, Porcelain Pot,Set of 3, 8 Oz, for Home Kitchen Coffee Bar
3 ceramic jars
Bamboo lids and spoons
8oz capacity
High-temp fired ceramic
Pros
- Classic bamboo and ceramic design
- Set of 3 with spoons and tray
- High-temperature fired ceramic
- Includes label stickers
Cons
- Lids may be loose
- Jars smaller than expected
- Some delamination reported
The smarex set has a classic Korean coffee-bar look that works equally well in a kitchen, on a dining sideboard, or in a restaurant setting. The high-temperature fired ceramic has a satisfying weight and a smooth glaze.
I tested this set on my dining table for family-style meals, where guests season their own soup or rice. The bamboo tray keeps everything organized and the spoons are sized for individual servings.
The 8oz capacity hits a useful middle ground. Larger than dainty spice jars, smaller than bulk canisters. Each jar holds enough gochugaru or salt for several meals without needing constant refills.
The lid fit is the weak point. About 5% of reviewers mentioned wobbly or loose lids. Mine were acceptable but not as snug as the ComSaf wire-clamp seals.
Restaurant and Coffee Bar Applications
This set is genuinely well-suited for a Korean restaurant condiment station or a coffee bar. The neutral white ceramic matches any decor and the bamboo adds warmth.
If you run a small cafe or restaurant, the included labels let you rotate contents quickly without confusion.
Value Assessment Across Sets
At this price for three jars with spoons and a tray, the smarex set offers solid value. It undercuts the Lucky Goddness set on price while offering similar capacity.
The tradeoff is finish quality. The glaze is good but not quite as refined as the Lucky Goddness porcelain.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Korean Spice Containers
Picking the right korean spice containers comes down to four factors: material, seal quality, capacity, and how the jars fit your kitchen workflow. Here is what I learned across three months of testing.
Material Comparison: Glass vs Ceramic vs Clay
Glass is the most practical choice for everyday Korean spice storage. It is non-porous, dishwasher safe, and lets you see contents at a glance. Borosilicate glass handles thermal shock, so you can pour warm toasted spices directly into the jar.
Ceramic offers the best countertop presentation. It blocks light, which helps preserve color in light-sensitive spices like gochugaru. The tradeoff is weight and fragility.
Traditional onggi clay breathes, making it the only correct choice for fermentation. For dry spice storage, the porosity is a drawback because it lets humidity in.
Reddit users on r/AskCulinary consistently recommend glass with airtight lids for dried spices and ceramic for table-side condiment display. My testing confirms this split.
Airtight Seal Importance for Korean Spices
Gochugaru loses its bright red color and fruity heat within weeks if exposed to air. Doenjang and gochujang develop surface mold if humidity creeps in. An airtight seal is not optional for Korean pantry storage.
The strongest seals I tested were wire clamp with silicone gasket (ComSaf) and bamboo lids with silicone rings (ComSaf with spoons). Twist-lock lids (HOMBENE, smarex) were adequate but less consistent across units.
Capacity Recommendations by Spice Type
For gochugaru and gochujang, I recommend 8oz or larger. These are the Korean spices you use most often. For toasted sesame seeds and salt, 4-6oz is plenty because a little goes a long way.
If you buy from Korean markets in bulk, look for 12oz jars or larger. The KIDYBELL set handles bulk quantities well.
Countertop vs Cabinet vs Drawer Storage
Countertop display favors ceramic and porcelain sets like Lucky Goddness and KIDYBELL. Cabinet storage favors square glass jars like ComSaf and Yangbaga because they stack efficiently. Drawer storage needs short jars under 4 inches tall.
Mix and match based on your cooking habits. I keep three display jars on the counter and the rest in a cabinet.
FAQs
What is the best container to keep spices in?
The best container for spices is a glass jar with an airtight lid that blocks light and moisture. Glass is non-porous, will not absorb odors, and lets you see contents. For Korean spices specifically, a 4-8oz glass jar with a silicone-gasket lid like the ComSaf wire-clamp set preserves gochugaru color and gochujang freshness far better than plastic bags or open containers.
Is it better to store spices in glass or stainless steel?
Glass is better than stainless steel for spice storage because it is non-reactive and lets you see the contents without opening the jar. Stainless steel is durable and blocks light completely, which helps preserve color, but you cannot tell when supplies are running low. For Korean spices where color indicates freshness, glass wins. Stainless steel works well for restaurant kitchens where durability matters more than visibility.
Is it better to store spices in glass or plastic jars?
Glass is significantly better than plastic for spice storage. Plastic is porous at a microscopic level, which means it absorbs odors and oils over time, especially from pungent Korean spices like gochugaru and doenjang. Glass is non-porous, dishwasher safe, and does not stain. Plastic is acceptable for short-term countertop use but should not be used for long-term pantry storage of Korean spices.
What is the best spice rack to buy?
The best spice rack depends on your kitchen layout. For countertop display, a bamboo tray set like the Lucky Goddness porcelain jars works well. For drawer storage, square glass jars from ComSaf or Yangbaga maximize space. For cabinet organization, a tiered shelf paired with uniform 4oz glass jars keeps everything visible. The Yangbaga 24-piece set with acacia lids is my top overall pick because it works across drawer, cabinet, and countertop configurations.
Conclusion: My Top Recommendations for Korean Spice Containers in 2026
After three months of daily cooking and testing, my top recommendation for the best korean spice containers depends on how you cook. For most home cooks, the ComSaf 12-piece wire-clamp set delivers the best balance of airtight sealing, value, and pantry organization. For wet pastes like gochujang, the ComSaf 12-piece set with spoons is unmatched.
If authenticity matters to you, the BALWOO Onggi clay jar connects you to centuries of Korean fermentation tradition. Pair it with a glass set for everyday dry spices and you have a complete Korean pantry storage system.
Whatever you choose, the upgrade from bags and mismatched jars is immediate. Your gochugaru stays red, your sesame seeds stay fragrant, and your kitchen finally looks as organized as the food deserves.