Thailand shares a border with Malaysia, which is why most of its southern region is a halal culture zone. Even in the capital city of Bangkok, there are many people who eat halal food. This traveler is one of them. Thailand also exports well through its halal industry. Its tourism market is exceptionally well-tailored targeting the halal market. South Korea is still in its infancy in this field, which is objectively puzzling and regrettable. A few large corporations have jumped in, but small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are moving at a snail's pace—barely opening one eye, like Shim Cheong's blind father.

Step outside of South Korea, and the halal sector is fiercely competitive. There are already many countries and companies that have pre-empted the market. Koreans tend to be fast and do well in all aspects. However, quite a few people turn a blind eye to the halal sector. With immense potential in both domestic and international halal markets, I hope business people take an interest. Look at the rate at which their population is growing. It is bound to become a new stage for the national economy and self-employed businesses in the future.

[ⓒ Global Economic Times. 무단전재-재배포 금지]