Napa cabbage shortage drives record kimchi imports in South Korea

Kimchi imports in South Korea are rising faster than ever, setting a new record in the first quarter of 2025. The reason behind the surge in imports is a shortage of napa cabbage caused by extreme weather last year and earlier this year. Prices have soared, with napa cabbage now costing over 24% more than last year and kimchi prices up by more than 20%.

From January to March, the country imported over $47 million worth of kimchi — a 16.7% jump from the same period last year, according to the Customs Tariff Agency.

Import volume also grew by 10.1%, reaching nearly 81,000 tons. However, the total value rose even more due to higher exchange rates, making imported goods more expensive in Korean won.

Last year, South Korea imported around 312,000 tons of kimchi worth nearly $190 million. Current trends suggest that this year’s totals could break that record.

Most of the imported kimchi comes from China and is used mainly in restaurants. At the same time, kimchi exports grew by just over 5%, but the trade deficit widened significantly — hitting nearly $23 million.

source: biz.chosun.com

photo: maangchi.com