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Though pine-mushrooms have been found throughout a considerably widespread area, they hardly appear in Chinese literature. Only in Korean and Japanese texts can we find writings about their taste and aroma.

In 'Samguksagi' (a Korean history book written in the 12th century), it is recorded that in 704 (3rd year of the reign of King Sunjong), pine-mushrooms were presented to the king, the oldest record of the mushrooms that exists in Korea.
Here, it was written that the pine-mushrooms were "nonpoisonous, sweet with the rich aroma of pine trees". Pine-mushrooms were not only a delicacy, but also recognized as a medicine.

In 'Chosunwangjo-shillok' (the Annals of the Chosun Dynasty), it is recorded that in the first year of King Sejong's reign, pine-mushrooms were sent to China. The medicinal value of the pine-mushroom is also detailed in 'Tong-ui Pogam' (Exemplar of Korean Medicine).

'The natural pine-mushroom is the best of its kind, being infused with the essence of the pine tree, completely non-toxic with a sweet fragrance and taste.'

'Jungbo-Sallim gyongje' comments on the taste of pine-mushrooms, saying that pine-mushrooms cooked with pheasant and pine-mushrooms lightly roasted with whey are quite wonderful.

As is evident, the pine-mushroom has been loved throughout Korea and other surrounding countries for its aroma and medicinal virtues.