Popularity of K-content helps to drive South Korea's kimchi export

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 22 — Soaring K-content has helped to push South Korea's kimchi export.

Trade of the fermented cabbage hit a record high last year, hitting a whopping 44,041 tonnes, KBS World reported.

Quoting the Korea Customs Service, the portal reported that the figure marked an increase of 7.1 percent from the previous year or 41,118 tonnes in 2022.

The number surpassed the previous record of 42,544 tonnes set in 2021.

In terms of value, exports came to US$155.6 million (RM734.3 million) in 2023, up 10.5 percent from year to year.

The outbreak of Covid-19 has proven to be a boon as kimchi exports went up in 2020 due to demand for the staple dish increasing following the perception as a health food that boosts immunity.

In 2020, export volume and value increased by 34.2 percent and 37.6 from year to year.

Meanwhile, an agricultural ministry official said kimchi exports experienced a significant surge primarily due to the increased popularity of K-content, Yonhap reported.

Japan was the top destination for kimchi exports last year, accounting for 20,173 tonnes, followed by the United States with 10,660 tonnes and the Netherlands with 1,756 tonnes, the data showed.