Korea’s food exports are booming! In 2025, they hit a record $13.62 billion, mainly thanks to the worldwide love for Korean cuisine. The Agriculture Ministry noted that the surge is largely fueled by instant noodles, sauces, and fruits.
The term “K-Food Plus” has been adopted to refer to the push for these exports. This includes everything from ramyeon to farm machinery and veterinary medicines. In fact, agricultural and food product exports alone reached $10.41 billion, a 4.3% increase from the previous year. This marks the first time they surpassed $100 billion and continues a decade-long trend of growth.
Ramyeon exports alone soared to $1.5 billion, which is a remarkable increase of 21.9% compared to last year. Sauces also did well, growing by 4.6% to $411.9 million. In addition, ice cream exports jumped 21.6%, reaching $111.3 million. Grapes and strawberries saw impressive growth too.
When looking at where these products are going, the United States stands out as the top importer, with $1.8 billion in shipments. Demand for ramyeon, sauces, and ice cream is rising there. Exports to China also grew, driven by popularity in sauces for fried chicken and spicy rice cakes. Europe and the Gulf Cooperation Council markets are seeing strong increases as well.
Recent social media trends highlight the global fascination with Korean food. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram showcase recipes and ramen challenges, boosting interest and sales. This has helped shape a new food culture that merges traditional Korean dishes with modern tastes.
In summary, Korea’s food industry is not just growing; it’s thriving. The popularity of K-Food is reshaping how the world eats and cooks. For more detailed statistics, you can check out the Korea Agricultural Ministry.
