Kimchi

Global Kimchi Market to Reach US$7.5 Billion by 2030

The global market for Kimchi estimated at US$5.6 Billion in the year 2024, is expected to reach US$7.5 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 4.9% over the analysis period 2024-2030. Baechu Kimchi, one of the segments analyzed in the report, is expected to record a 5.8% CAGR and reach US$4.1 Billion by the end of the analysis period. Growth in the Kkakdugi Kimchi segment is estimated at 3.2% CAGR over the analysis period.

The U.S. Market is Estimated at US$1.5 Billion While China is Forecast to Grow at 4.8% CAGR

The Kimchi market in the U.S. is estimated at US$1.5 Billion in the year 2024. China, the world`s second largest economy, is forecast to reach a projected market size of US$1.2 Billion by the year 2030 trailing a CAGR of 4.8% over the analysis period 2024-2030. Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at a CAGR of 4.7% and 4.2% respectively over the analysis period. Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 4.0% CAGR.

Global Kimchi Market – Key Trends & Drivers Summarized

Why Is Kimchi Gaining Ground on the Global Culinary Map?
Once a staple of traditional Korean cuisine, kimchi has evolved into a global culinary sensation, penetrating mainstream diets far beyond its origins. The surge in popularity stems not only from the increased exposure to Korean culture through entertainment and tourism but also from the rising acceptance of fermented foods in global gastronomy. As more consumers become health-conscious, they`re seeking flavorful yet nutritious options, and kimchi has emerged as a compelling choice. This fermented cabbage dish, rich in probiotics and antioxidants, is being adopted by top chefs and home cooks alike. The international foodservice industry has also embraced kimchi, incorporating it into fusion dishes ranging from tacos and burgers to pizza and pasta. Moreover, the spread of Korean barbecue restaurants and Korean grocery chains across North America, Europe, and Southeast Asia has played a crucial role in familiarizing new consumers with the taste and benefits of kimchi. As a result, kimchi is no longer perceived as a niche ethnic food but is steadily gaining recognition as a versatile, functional food product in global markets.

How Is Innovation Transforming the Kimchi Product Landscape?
Product innovation is reshaping the dynamics of the kimchi market, with manufacturers responding to changing consumer preferences by diversifying both ingredients and packaging. While traditional napa cabbage kimchi remains popular, producers are experimenting with new vegetable bases such as radish, cucumber, kale, and even fruit-infused variants to cater to evolving tastes and dietary requirements. There is also a notable increase in vegan and gluten-free options to appeal to restrictive diets. Additionally, clean label trends have prompted manufacturers to eliminate artificial preservatives and opt for organic, locally sourced ingredients. On the packaging front, the focus has shifted toward convenience and sustainability—vacuum-sealed packs, resealable containers, and eco-friendly packaging are becoming standard in many international markets. Moreover, the advent of ready-to-eat (RTE) and meal-kit formats has made kimchi more accessible to time-pressed urban consumers. These innovations are not only boosting consumer appeal but are also opening up new retail and foodservice opportunities for kimchi, further embedding it into everyday consumption patterns around the world.

What Role Are E-Commerce and Cross-Border Retail Playing in Market Expansion?
The rapid expansion of e-commerce and international retail networks has acted as a catalyst for the global kimchi market. As online grocery platforms proliferate, especially in post-pandemic economies, kimchi has found a powerful distribution channel to reach both diaspora and curious food explorers. Online specialty stores and major e-retailers now offer a wide range of authentic and locally made kimchi products, often with export certifications to assure quality and safety. Subscription-based delivery models for Korean foods have also emerged, creating recurring demand among global consumers. Retail partnerships and brand collaborations are accelerating the market’s expansion, with prominent South Korean brands securing shelf space in premium supermarkets across Europe, North America, and the Middle East. Additionally, the growing trend of culinary tourism and food vlogging has further amplified global awareness and curiosity surrounding kimchi. Influencers and chefs showcasing traditional fermentation methods and creative uses of kimchi on platforms like YouTube and Instagram have significantly widened its appeal. These digital and retail-driven touchpoints are crucial in transforming kimchi from a regional specialty into a globally accessible and appreciated product.

What Are the Forces Fueling the Surge in Global Kimchi Demand?
The growth in the global kimchi market is driven by several factors that cut across technological advancements, end-use evolution, and shifting consumer behavior. Technological innovations in food preservation and fermentation have enabled longer shelf life and better flavor retention, facilitating exports and large-scale distribution. Refrigeration technologies and cold-chain logistics have also improved, making international shipping of fresh kimchi more viable and cost-effective. On the consumption front, the rise of flexitarian and probiotic-rich diets has fueled interest in fermented foods, with kimchi becoming a frontrunner due to its bold flavor and health benefits. The foodservice sector has significantly influenced end-use expansion, as more restaurants, cloud kitchens, and meal delivery platforms incorporate kimchi into their offerings, driving wider consumption. Additionally, changing consumer behavior toward experiential eating and culinary exploration has encouraged people to try new, exotic flavors—kimchi fits this narrative perfectly. The endorsement of kimchi by health influencers, nutritionists, and wellness communities has also reinforced its image as a superfood. Notably, government-backed initiatives in South Korea to promote kimchi as a cultural export and the implementation of geographical indication (GI) protections have further solidified its international presence. These diverse yet interconnected factors collectively underscore the robust momentum propelling the kimchi market forward on a global scale.

SCOPE OF STUDY:

The report analyzes the Kimchi market in terms of units by the following Segments, and Geographic Regions/Countries:

Segments:
Product (Baechu Kimchi, Kkakdugi Kimchi, Chonggak Kimchi, Other Kimchi Products); Distribution Channel (Business-to-Consumer Distribution Channel, Business-to-Business Distribution Channel); End-Use (Households / Retail End-Use, Food Service End-Use)

Geographic Regions/Countries:
World; United States; Canada; Japan; China; Europe (France; Germany; Italy; United Kingdom; and Rest of Europe); Asia-Pacific; Rest of World.

Select Competitors (Total 41 Featured) -

• Chongga Foods
• CJ CheilJedang (Bibigo)
• Cleveland Kitchen
• Daesang Corporation (Jongga)
• Dongwon F&B Co., Ltd.
• Erom Inc.
• Jongga (Daesang America Inc.)
• King`s Asian Gourmet
• Korea Kimchi Co., Ltd.
• Lucky Foods (Seoul Kimchi)
• Madge`s Food Company
• Mama O`s Premium Kimchi
• Mother-in-Law`s Kimchi
• Nasoya Foods USA, LLC
• Pulmuone Co., Ltd.
• Real Pickles
• Sempio Foods Company
• Sunja`s Kimchi
• Wang Korea
• Wildbrine

TARIFF IMPACT FACTOR

Our new release incorporates impact of tariffs on geographical markets as we predict a shift in competitiveness of companies based on HQ country, manufacturing base, exports and imports (finished goods and OEM). This intricate and multifaceted market reality will impact competitors by artificially increasing the COGS, reducing profitability, reconfiguring supply chains, amongst other micro and macro market dynamics.

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We expect this chaos to play out over the next 2-3 months and a new world order is established with more clarity. We are tracking these developments on a real time basis.

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APRIL 2025: NEGOTIATION PHASE

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