Seoul, South Korea – Kimchi, Korea’s iconic fermented cabbage dish, has continued its global ascent, with both export volume and value reaching record highs last year. According to data released by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs on Tuesday, kimchi exports amounted to 47,100 tons in 2023, marking a 6.9% increase from the previous year.

The upward trend in kimchi exports has been consistent, with a 7.1% growth from 39,700 tons in 2020 to 42,500 tons in 2021. While there was a slight dip to 41,100 tons in 2022 due to adverse weather conditions and increased global logistics costs, exports have rebounded strongly in the past two years.

"Despite challenges such as supply shortages of cabbage caused by extreme weather and rising overseas logistics costs, kimchi exports have maintained a steady growth trajectory," said a ministry official. "This is largely attributed to the increasing global recognition of kimchi as a representative K-food product and its status as a vegan and fermented food."

The export value of kimchi also hit a record high of $163.6 million (approximately 240 billion won) last year, representing a 5.2% increase year-on-year.

Kimchi is now exported to over 90 countries worldwide. Japan remains the largest importer of Korean kimchi, followed by the United States and the Netherlands. Exports to both the US and the Netherlands surged by 25.2% and 28.9%, respectively, compared to the previous year. Canada ranked fourth, with a remarkable 61.5% increase in exports, while Australia experienced a 37.2% growth.

"In the United States, kimchi exports have shown consistent growth throughout the year, thanks to increased distribution in major retailers such as Costco and Walmart, and the introduction of a wider variety of kimchi products," said the ministry official. "In Europe, the growing popularity of Korean restaurants and the incorporation of kimchi into local recipes have led to increased exports to countries like the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and France."

The continued success of kimchi exports is a testament to the global appeal of Korean cuisine and the growing recognition of kimchi as a healthy and delicious food.