South Korea’s agricultural exports reached an all-time high in 2023, fueled by soaring demand for instant noodles and processed foods in major markets including the US and China.
Shipments of agricultural products and related industries, known as “K-Food Plus,” climbed 6.1% to $13.03 billion last year, the agriculture ministry said. Ramen exports jumped 31% to $1.25 billion, while processed rice products surged 38% to $300 million.
The US remained the largest market, with exports rising 21% to $1.59 billion, driven by frozen gimbap sales. China followed with $1.51 billion in purchases, while Japan ranked third at $1.37 billion.
The export growth extended beyond food products, with pesticide shipments to South America and Southeast Asia soaring 62% to $807 million. Veterinary medicine exports increased 9% to $281 million.
The strong performance in agricultural exports contributed to South Korea’s rise in global export rankings from eighth to sixth place, with total exports reaching $683.8 billion. Trade officials expect exports to exceed $700 billion this year as the country aims to become the world’s fifth-largest exporter.
The ministry attributes the growth to increasing global demand for convenience foods and health-conscious products, particularly in Western markets where Korean cuisine continues to gain popularity.
