ATLANTA, GA – Hong Moon-pyo, President of the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation (aT), is actively engaging with stakeholders in the United States to bolster the export of Korean food products (K-Food) amidst a dynamic global market landscape. His recent activities underscore a strategic push to capitalize on the growing popularity of Korean cuisine in the U.S., the top export market for Korean agricultural and food products.
On April 17th, President Hong attended the 23rd World Korean Business Convention in Atlanta, Georgia, hosted by the Overseas Koreans Agency. This participation served as a platform for him to cultivate crucial networks aimed at further facilitating the entry and expansion of K-Food within the American market.
During the G2G forum, which brought together officials from both the Korean and U.S. federal and local governments, President Hong emphasized the pivotal role of the U.S. market. "The United States stands as the number one export destination for Korean agricultural and food products, with an unprecedented surge in popularity and demand for K-Food," he stated. He further expressed his aspiration for high-quality Korean agricultural and food products to establish themselves as promising export items for Korean-American business leaders. Acknowledging the fluid international trade environment, particularly concerning recent tariff issues, President Hong stressed the importance of "hearing the actual voices from the field and jointly seeking countermeasures."
At an official dinner hosted by the Commissioner of the Overseas Koreans Agency, a side event of the convention, President Hong highlighted the notable achievements of K-Food in the U.S. market. He pointed to the positive reception of processed foods, including the iconic kimchi, and the remarkable growth in specific sectors. Notably, ramen exports surged by 32.3% year-on-year to reach $62.31 million, while seaweed (gim) exports saw a substantial increase of 21.7% to $57.95 million as of March 2025. These figures underscore the escalating recognition and acceptance of K-Food among American consumers.
The overall export figures for Korean agricultural and fisheries food products to the United States up to March 2025 demonstrate a robust upward trend, reaching $571.23 million, a significant 23.4% increase compared to the same period last year. Processed foods have been a key driver of this growth, registering a substantial 28.2% increase to $384.52 million. This performance reflects the increasing sophistication and diversification of K-Food offerings appealing to American palates.
President Hong also visited the ‘K-FOOD Promotion Hall’ within the business exhibition, specifically designed to promote exports to the U.S. He engaged actively with buyers who showed keen interest in premium Korean rice-processed products, including instant rice, rice beverages, and rice-fermented alcoholic beverages. This interaction provided an opportunity to showcase the quality and versatility of K-Food.
One attendee at the promotion hall, Mr. Jeff from Georgia, commented on the potential of Korean rice-based products within the American market. "With the growing trends of gluten-free and vegan diets in the U.S., rice-processed foods appear to be a perfect fit," he noted, adding, "I see significant potential for Korean rice-based products in the ready-to-eat meal and alternative beverage markets." This sentiment echoes the broader consumer interest in healthier and more diverse food options.
Following his engagements in Atlanta, President Hong is scheduled to continue his outreach in the U.S. East Coast, traveling to New York and New Jersey from April 18th. His itinerary includes meetings with import buyers, visits to local distribution companies, and strengthening collaborations with Korean community organizations. These activities aim to gather firsthand insights into the dynamics of the Eastern U.S. market and to explore practical avenues for enhanced cooperation in K-Food exports. President Hong's proactive approach underscores aT's commitment to supporting Korean food exporters and capitalizing on the burgeoning global appetite for Korean cuisine. This strategic focus on market intelligence and network building is crucial for sustaining and expanding the success of K-Food in the competitive U.S. market.
The increasing popularity of K-Food in the U.S. is attributed to several factors, including the growing global interest in Korean culture (the "Korean Wave" or "Hallyu"), which encompasses music, drama, and now, cuisine. The perception of Korean food as healthy, flavorful, and innovative has also contributed significantly to its appeal. Furthermore, the rise of social media and food influencers has played a crucial role in introducing and popularizing various Korean dishes and products among American consumers.
The Korean government and organizations like aT have been actively supporting K-Food exports through various initiatives, including participation in international food fairs, providing market research and information to exporters, and facilitating connections between Korean suppliers and international buyers. These efforts are aligned with a broader national strategy to promote Korean culture and boost the national economy through food exports.
The focus on rice-processed products aligns with a growing global trend towards healthier and alternative food options. Rice, being naturally gluten-free, caters to the increasing number of consumers seeking gluten-free diets. Additionally, the versatility of rice allows for the development of a wide range of innovative products, from convenient meals to beverages, meeting diverse consumer needs.
The challenges in the U.S. market, as alluded to by President Hong regarding "recent tariff issues," could relate to ongoing trade discussions and potential changes in import regulations. Staying informed about these developments and proactively addressing potential barriers is crucial for maintaining the current growth trajectory of K-Food exports. aT's emphasis on gathering "actual voices from the field" highlights the importance of understanding the practical implications of these trade dynamics for Korean exporters.
President Hong's visit to the East Coast, a major hub for international trade and diverse consumer populations, signifies a targeted approach to further penetrate this significant market. Engaging with import buyers and local distributors is essential for establishing efficient supply chains and ensuring that K-Food products reach a wider range of consumers. Collaboration with Korean community organizations can also play a vital role in promoting K-Food within local communities and building brand loyalty.
In conclusion, President Hong's proactive engagement in the U.S. market reflects a strategic and timely response to the growing global interest in K-Food and the evolving dynamics of international trade. By focusing on networking, understanding market trends, and supporting Korean exporters, aT aims to solidify and expand the presence of Korean agricultural and food products in the crucial U.S. market, ensuring continued growth and success for the K-Food industry.
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