Seoul, Korea – Korean rice cakes, or tteok, have seen a meteoric rise in global popularity, with exports reaching an all-time high last year. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and the Korea Agro-Fisheries Trade Corporation (aT), the value of tteok exports soared to nearly $91.4 million in 2024, a significant increase from the previous year’s record of $77.8 million.
This surge in demand can be attributed largely to the growing popularity of tteokbokki, a spicy Korean rice cake dish. The global fascination with Korean culture, fueled by the Hallyu wave, has propelled tteokbokki into the international spotlight. In fact, the word "tteokbokki" was even added to the Oxford English Dictionary in 2024.
The United States emerged as the top destination for Korean rice cakes, accounting for 37% of total exports. Other major markets include the Netherlands, Vietnam, Japan, and Canada.
Factors contributing to the export boom include:
Gluten-free trend: In North America and Europe, Korean rice cakes have gained traction among consumers seeking gluten-free alternatives.
E-commerce: Online platforms like Amazon have made it easier for consumers worldwide to purchase Korean rice cakes.
Social media influence: Social media influencers have played a pivotal role in promoting unique consumption methods, such as the "꿀떡 시리얼" trend, where rice cakes are enjoyed with milk.
As Korean food continues to captivate global palates, tteok is poised to become an even more prominent feature on dining tables around the world.
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