South Korean fishery processing giant Sajodaerim Corp. has made a significant entry into the frozen kimbap market, positioning itself as a new major player in this burgeoning sector. On Friday, the company announced the launch of its frozen kimbap brand, revealing that it has already shipped 36 tons, or 155,000 rolls, to the US since April. Sajodaerim plans to export approximately 72,000 rolls monthly.
Known for its canned tuna and fishcakes, Sajodaerim is diversifying its product line with frozen kimbap rolls made from tuna meat and various vegetables. The brand offers three varieties, including a vegan option with fried tofu and burdock.
This move comes shortly after Korean food giant CJ CheilJedang Corp. introduced its frozen kimbap products in Australia following a successful launch in Japan. Kimbap, a seaweed-wrapped Korean rice roll, is distinct from Japanese sushi, typically featuring marinated meat, omelet-style egg, and vegetables rolled into seaweed.
The concept of frozen kimbap is relatively new to most Koreans, as it is traditionally served fresh and consumed the same day. However, frozen kimbap has gained international popularity, particularly in the US, following a social media buzz last year. This trend was initially driven by small Korean food companies like Allgot Co., whose frozen kimbap became a sensation at Trader Joe’s stores across the US.
Allgot Co. was not the first to export frozen kimbap; that distinction belongs to Bokmansa Co., which began shipping its products to Hong Kong in 2020 and now exports to 19 countries, including the US, the UK, Qatar, and Indonesia.
As larger companies like Sajodaerim and CJ CheilJedang join the market, competition in the frozen kimbap export sector is expected to intensify. Investors responded positively to Sajodaerim’s announcement, driving up shares of both the company and its affiliates.
With Sajodaerim’s entry, the frozen kimbap market—central to the latest global Korean food trend—is poised for further growth and increased competition.
