South Korea’s kimchi exports have soared to new heights in the first half of this year, driven by the increasing global appeal of Korean cuisine, especially in North America and Europe. According to data from the Korea Customs Service and the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corp., outbound shipments of kimchi reached 23,900 tons during the first six months of 2024, marking a 4.8 percent increase from the previous year.
Kimchi, a traditional Korean side dish made from fermented cabbage, salt, and hot peppers, has seen its half-yearly export figures steadily rise over the past decade. From 11,500 tons in 2015 to 20,300 tons in 2020, the upward trend continues with 22,200 tons in 2022.
In terms of export value, kimchi exports amounted to USD 83.8 million in the first half of 2024, making it the second highest on record, following USD 86.7 million in 2021. This growth is largely attributed to the rising demand from North America and Europe.
Exports to the United States surged by 20 percent year-on-year to 6,600 tons, while shipments to Canada soared by 34 percent to 900 tons. In Europe, the Netherlands saw a 34 percent increase, reaching 1,300 tons.
By value, kimchi exports to the U.S. hit a record USD 24.1 million, up 18.9 percent from the previous year. The Netherlands followed with USD 5.6 million, Britain with USD 4.2 million, and Canada with USD 3.8 million. Japan, the largest buyer of South Korean kimchi, purchased 9,600 tons valued at USD 28.3 million, representing an 11.9 percent decline from the previous year.
Meanwhile, South Korea's imports of kimchi totaled USD 83.4 million in the first half of 2024, down from USD 78.8 million the previous year.
South Korea’s growing export figures for kimchi underscore the expanding global footprint of its traditional foods, reflecting a positive trend for trade and cultural exchange.
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