In 2023, the international market performance of South Korean kimchi (Kimchi) was particularly remarkable. According to the latest statistics released by the South Korean Customs Service, the export volume of kimchi increased by 7.1% year - on - year, reaching 44,041 tons, setting a new record over the years. This achievement marks the growing popularity of South Korean traditional cuisine globally and the significant results achieved by South Korea in promoting its culture and cuisine.

The export value of South Korean kimchi also achieved a significant increase, rising by 10.5% year - on - year, approximately reaching 155.6 million US dollars. Compared with five years ago, both the export weight and value increased by more than 50%, which is remarkable. Looking back to 2018, the export volume of kimchi was less than 30,000 tons, and the export value was less than 100 million US dollars. The current growth rate reflects the rapid expansion of the South Korean kimchi market and the enhancement of its international influence.

In 2023, the number of export destinations for South Korean kimchi increased to 92 countries and regions, also setting a new historical high. Of particular note is the export performance of South Korean kimchi in the two major markets of Japan and the United States. The total export value to these two countries exceeded 100 million US dollars, accounting for 65% of the overall export proportion, indicating the importance of these two markets for South Korean kimchi export business. Among them, the export value to Japan was 61.49 million US dollars, accounting for 40% of the total export value; the export value to the United States was 39.989 million US dollars, accounting for 26%.

In terms of imports, the import value of South Korean kimchi decreased by 3.4% year - on - year in 2023, approximately reaching 163.6 million US dollars. This change led to a trade balance deficit of 7.959 million US dollars, but this figure was reduced compared to the deficit in 2022 (28.584 million US dollars), with a reduction of more than 20 million US dollars. This data reflects that South Koreas overall competitiveness in the kimchi trade is gradually improving.

In 2023, South Korean kimchi achieved remarkable results in the international market. Not only did the export volume and value reach new historical highs, but its performance in key markets such as Japan and the United States was particularly outstanding. With the increasing global attention to healthy diets, it is expected that South Korean kimchi will continue to maintain a growth trend in the international market in the future.