Kimchi Market

Kimchi Market Size

The global kimchi market size was valued at USD 4.5 billion in 2024, with expectations to reach USD 6.5 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 6.1%.

Kimchi, a classic Korean star dish, known for its versatile uses within the Korean cuisine. It is usually created by fermenting vegetables such as napa or Chinese cabbage and Korean radishes mixed with variety of spices. Fermented food such as kimchi contains beneficial bacteria (probiotics) that support gut health and digestion. With increasing awareness of gut health's importance to overall well-being, there's a growing consumer demand for the global kimchi market.

Globalization of Korean culture and cuisine is one of the factors driving this demand for this market. The popularity of K-pop and K-dramas rising globally has heightened interest in the Korean cuisine among the consumers. Also, kimchi is increasingly being incorporated into various international dishes, from tacos to burgers, reflecting its versatility in other cuisine and global appeal. One of the major factors affecting this market is the global shift in consumer preferences as consumers are looking sustainably sourced, organic and clean labelled products due the changing health-conscious mindset among the consumers.

The rise in veganism and demand for organic products has spurred the development of plant-based kimchi varieties made without fish sauce or shrimp paste, catering to a broader audience. Brands are introducing ready-to-eat kimchi in various packaging formats, such as pouches and jars, to meet the needs of the busy convenient mindset consumers, as they are looking for more convenience nowadays due their changing lifestyle.

Kimchi is made using natural preservation fermentation method that extends the shelf life of foods without the need for artificial preservatives. This appeals to consumers looking for minimally processed and natural food options. Kimchi taste profile changes with relation to how long it is being fermented as it enhances the flavour, but due to it being naturally preserved, it generally often has a shorter shelf life. Technological innovations in advanced bottling techniques and vacuum sealing comes in solving this problem by increasing the shelf life and preserving the taste and quality of the ingredients.

For instance, in 2024, South Korea's kimchi exports reached a record high of 47,100 tonnes, marking a 6.9% increase from the previous year. The export value also reached to USD 163.6 million, up 5.2% from 2023. This surge is attributed to the growing global popularity of Korean cuisine.

Also, South Korean kimchi’s expansion into US market have seen a clear growth, with exports surpassing 10,000 tonnes in 2023 which is a nearly tenfold increase from 12 years prior.  In general, the market shows shifting demand focused on clear label, health food, Korean cuisine, and eco-friendliness demonstrating a broad opportunity in global kimchi market. This shows the lying growth potential in this industry taking in account the rising environmental and sustainability concerns. 

Kimchi Market Trends

Changing consumer behaviour and technological advancement used in fermented kimchi products are one of the most important factors affecting the growing market, especially in terms of new innovative methods of processing and packaging to increase the overall shelf life. Due kimchi being naturally fermented without any preservative’s kimchi market is continuously involved in R&D exploring improvements of emerging technologies in aseptic processing are increasing product shelf life, preserving natural flavour, ensuring quality and product safety. Advanced smart packaging and recyclable materials is also appealing to the younger generation and the environmentally friendly segment of people.

Consumer’s awareness of how good kimchi is for health is leading to strong market growth worldwide. As a traditional Korean vegetable side dish, kimchi has probiotics, vitamins and antioxidants that are known to support gut health, boost immunity and help your digestion. Whenever people want to eat healthy, the interest in kimchi has greatly increased. It is very noticeable in North America and Europe that kimchi is becoming part of usual diets. The trend should cause the industry to expand in many countries.

Also, traditional kimchi is often made with fish sauce or shrimp paste, but more people eating vegan diets has made it possible for kimchi to be vegan. This is attracting consumers who desire probiotic food options free of animal ingredients. Health-conscious consumers are seeking foods free from synthetic additives and produced through environmentally friendly practices, organic kimchi has emerged as a preferred choice. Manufacturers are responding by innovating in product formulations and packaging to meet this demand, further propelling the market's growth.

Kimchi Market Analysis

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The kimchi market by product type is segmented into Baechu kimchi (cabbage), Kkakdungi kimchi (radish), Dongchimi kimchi (Watery Radish), Nabak Kimchi (sliced and vegetable), White kimchi (non-spicy) and other. The Baechu kimchi (cabbage) accounted for 57.5% of the market share in 2024 with a market size of USD 2.6 billion.

• Baechu Kimchi which either made of napa or Chinese cabbage is heavily dominating the product of segment of the global kimchi market, followed by kkakdungi kimchi which made from radishes. The fermentation process of kimchi causes probiotics, or good bacteria, to increase which supports gut health, these probiotics help with digestion, balance the microbiota, and possibly even strengthen the immune system.
  
• Probiotic-rich foods such as kimchi are in greater demand as consumers realised how important gut health is. Minerals such as calcium and iron, and important vitamins A, B, and C, are all found in abundance in kimchi. Its excellent nutritional value and low-calorie content make it appealing to consumers who are health concerned and looking for food high in nutrients.

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The market is segmented into bottled/jarred, vacuum packed, canned, pouch and others. Bottles/jars made up 48.1% of the market in 2024 and expected to grow at a faster rate of 4.6% CAGR to reach a wider consumer base.

In this segment bottles/Jars remains the most used packaging type in the kimchi market. Bottles are generally made of plastic which makes them easy to carry, light weight, durable and cost effective compared with other packaging materials such as glass jars. Due to the changing consumer convenience habits, this makes it preferable for busy consumers. Advanced smart bottling technology also helped the products in increasing the shelf life and keeping the flavour as fresh as possible. There is also a growing push towards recycled recycle plastic bottles to reduce the carbon footprint, which attracts eco-friendly consumers.

The market is segmented into supermarkets/hypermarkets, convenience stores, specialty stores, online retail, food service sector and others based on distribution channel. Supermarkets/hypermarkets up 38.3% of the market in 2024 and expected to grow at a faster rate of 4.1% CAGR to reach a wider consumer base.

The growing kimchi market is adopting a multifaceted distribution channel by making the availability on both online and offline channels. The supermarket & hypermarket hold the dominant share of the market because of having a high product variety from traditional cabbage/radish variants to new innovative flavours like dried sliced vegetable kimchi noodles that cater to different consumer base. Supermarket and hypermarket success in the kimchi market is also further supported by their ability to offer competitive prices by means of per time promotions and bulk purchasing power.

Convenience stores, as the name suggests, focus on fulfilling the need for immediate convenient demand habits of the consumers as they are generally open 24/7. They are usually located in high traffic areas catering to the busy lifestyle of professionals, students or travellers. Specialty stores focus on niche markets due having high prices catering premium, mainly offering high quality organic ingredients in kimchi premium and high-quality packaging.

Consumers these days are increasingly shifting from traditional shopping outlets to online retail. Through e-commerce platforms, Brands provide access a larger audience that is not limited by geography. It allows people to easily order and have things delivered right to their home. Brands are also keeping mind the changing consumer convenience habits and the introduction of quick commerce in this space has brought in a huge change in the distribution channels where one can get home deliveries within 15-30 mins. Food services include cafes and restaurants that work on a D2C style to provide consumers with providing authentic Korean cuisine experience.

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The kimchi market is dominated by Asia Pacific, accounting for 48.2% of total revenue in 2024.

• The Asia-Pacific states region, especially Korea, China, Japan remains most dominating region in the kimchi market. The US is closely following lead right after leading APAC regions in this market. US is expected to dominate the North America region due to the increasing demand of the food market. Germany is expected to dominate the Europe region because of growing taste and preference of the cultural food.  
  
• South Korea is attracting high level of investments due to being one of the major manufacturers and the increasing R&D in the food preparations in this market.
  

Kimchi Market Share

The CJ CheilJedang Corp., Daesung Corporation, Pulmuone Co. ltd, Chongga Food Co. and Youjin Foods Co. Ltd are significant 5 players in the global kimchi industry with respect to innovation and distribution. These are prominent companies within the global kimchi industry operating in their respective regions. These companies hold strong positions globally due to their extensive experience in sushi grade kimchi market. Their diverse product portfolios, backed by robust production capabilities and distribution networks, enable them to meet the rising demand for sushi grade seafood across various regions.

Kimchi Market Companies

CJ CheilJedang Corp.: CJ CheilJedang is a major South Korean food company and a key player in the global kimchi market. Under its "Bibigo" brand, the company offers a variety of kimchi products, catering to both domestic and international consumers. CJ CheilJedang's commitment to innovation and quality has solidified its position as a leader in the fermented food industry.

Daesung Corporation: Daesang Corporation, through its "Jongga" brand, is renowned for producing authentic Korean kimchi. The company has expanded its global presence by showcasing its products at international food exhibitions, such as SIAL Canada 2025, strengthening its competitiveness in North America.

Pulmuone Co. ltd: Pulmuone is a South Korean company specializing in plant-based foods, including kimchi. The company has made significant inroads into the U.S. market, where its kimchi products, sold under the "Nasoya" brand, have gained popularity. Pulmuone's focus on health-conscious and vegan-friendly options aligns with current consumer trends.

Chongga Food Co.: Chongga Food Co. is known for its wide range of kimchi products, including traditional and innovative varieties. The company's commitment to quality and authenticity has made its products popular among consumers seeking genuine Korean flavors.

Youjin Foods Co. Ltd: YOUJIN FOODS specializes in producing traditional Korean kimchi, focusing on maintaining authentic flavors and fermentation processes. The company caters to both domestic and international markets, emphasizing quality and tradition in its product offerings.

Kimchi Industry News:

• In February 2025, Daekwang F&G CO., Ltd Participated in Fine Food Australia 2025, showcasing its kimchi products to expand its global reach. Also, supplies its Jinsunmi kimchi to approximately 200 schools in Busan and Gyeongnam, South Korea, emphasizing quality and safety.
  
• In March 2025, Wildbrine introduced its new fermented and pickled products, including Mild White Kimchi, at Whole Foods Market, responding to growing consumer interest in fermented foods.
  
• In April 2025, CJ CheilJedang Corp. broadened its product range by introducing a new kimchi brand, Soop Kimchi, exclusively online targeting spicy food enthusiasts aged 20–40. The name combines the onomatopoeic sound “soop” (slurp) and “silbi,” meaning intensely spicy kimchi.
  
• In May 2025, Daesang Corporation Showcased its flagship brands, Jongga and O'Food, at SIAL Canada 2025, strengthening its presence in the North American market.
  

The kimchi market research report includes an in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates and forecast in terms of revenue in USD Billion from 2021 - 2034 for the following segments:

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Market, By Product Type

• Baechu (cabbage) kimchi
• Kkakdugi (radish) kimchi
• Dongchimi (watery radish) kimchi
• Nabak kimchi (sliced radish and vegetables)
• White kimchi (non-spicy)
• Others

Market, By Packaging Type

• Bottled/jarred kimchi
• Vacuum packed kimchi
• Canned kimchi
• Pouch packaging
• Others

Market, By Distribution Channel

• Supermarkets/hypermarkets
• Specialty stores
• Convenience stores
• Online retail
• Food service
• Others

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America 
  • U.S.
  • Canada 
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Netherlands
  • Rest of Europe 
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • South Korea
  • Rest of Asia Pacific 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
  • Rest of Latin America 
• Middle East and Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa
  • UAE
  • Rest of Middle East and Africa