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South Korea's Food Exports Hit Record $13.62 Billion

1/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

South Korea’s food exports reached a record 13.62 billion dollars in 2025, led by instant noodles.
Instant noodles, ramyeon, rose nearly 22% to 1.52 billion dollars.
Demand is strongest in China and the United States, where inflation drives affordable meals.
Nongshim and Otoki are expanding internationally to capture growth, aided by K-pop’s popularity.

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Story summary

South Korea’s food exports reached a record 13.62 billion dollars in 2025, led by instant noodles.
Instant noodles, ramyeon, rose nearly 22% to 1.52 billion dollars.
Demand is strongest in China and the United States, where inflation drives affordable meals.
Nongshim and Otoki are expanding internationally to capture growth, aided by K-pop’s popularity.