Daesang Jongga, Kimchi Popular Worldwide... Accelerating Exports to the US and Asia

[Asia Economy Reporter Eunmo Koo] As the global status of Korea's representative traditional fermented food, "Kimchi," rises, Daesang's kimchi brand "Jongga" is leading the export of packaged kimchi. Domestic kimchi export value recorded an all-time high, increasing by about 103% over six years from $79 million in 2016 to $166 million last year.

Daesang is accelerating kimchi exports amid worldwide interest. Jongga Kimchi currently has a presence in over 40 countries worldwide, including the Americas, Europe, Taiwan, and Hong Kong in Asia. 90% of the export volume to Japan and over 80% of the volume exported to Asian regions such as Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Singapore are consumed by locals, and the number of local consumers seeking kimchi is also increasing in Western regions like the Americas and Europe.

Recently, exports to the North American and Asian markets have notably increased. In the United States, the number of kimchi products newly sold through major large-scale distribution channels is rising, significantly boosting export value. Daesang has been selling Jongga Kimchi through various distribution channels within the U.S. Since 2019, as demand for Jongga Kimchi has grown in the U.S., the number of stores in mainstream distribution channels in the western and central regions has expanded, increasing export value. Starting from March this year, the operation of the LA factory has also begun, which is expected to give momentum to local kimchi consumption.