USD 4.81 Billion
Kimchi Market Size, Share, and Growth Analysis
Kimchi Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report, By Product (Baechu Kimchi, Kkakdugi Kimchi, Chonggak Kimchi, Others), By End Use (Households/Retail, Food Service), By Distribution Channel, By Region, And Segment Forecast, 2025-2032
Report ID:
SQMIG30I2466 |
Region:
Global |
Published Date: April, 2025
Pages:
181
|Tables:
92
|Figures:
66
Format -
Kimchi Market Insights
Global Kimchi Market size was valued at USD 4.81 Billion in 2023 and is poised to grow from USD 5.06 Billion in 2024 to USD 7.59 Billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 5.2% during the forecast period (2025-2032).
Surge in popularity of Korean cuisine, high emphasis on gut health, innovation in kimchi varieties and packaging, expansion of distribution channels, and growing use of kimchi in foodservice are slated to drive consumption of kimchi in the long run.
High emphasis on gut health to improve immunity and resistance to diseases has led to growing consumption of probiotics such as kimchi. The surge in popularity of Korean cuisine backed by K-dramas and K-pop is a major factor boosting kimchi demand. Availability of kimchi globally through diverse distribution networks including supermarkets, specialty Asian grocery stores, health food outlets, and e-commerce platforms also supports sales. Modern kimchi producers are innovating with new flavors, organic varieties, low-sodium versions, and packaging options to attract new consumers and drive revenue.
On the contrary, short shelf life, limited consumer acceptance in certain regions, high costs of production for premium varieties, and competition from local fermented alternatives are estimated to hamper the global kimchi market growth in the future.
Market snapshot - 2025-2032
Global Market Size
Largest Segment
Baechu Kimchi
Fastest Growth
Kkakdugi Kimchi
Growth Rate
5.2% CAGR
Global Kimchi Market ($ Bn)
Country Share for Asia Pacific Region (%)
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Kimchi Market Segments Analysis
Which Kimchi Product Do Consumers Consume the Most?
Baechu Kimchi, made from napa cabbage accounts for the highest global kimchi market share due to its traditional roots and widespread consumer preference. Its familiarity, versatility in dishes, and cultural significance in Korean cuisine make it the most produced and consumed type. Available in various spice levels and packaging formats, Baechu Kimchi appeals to both domestic and international markets.
Meanwhile, the demand for kkakdugi kimchi is slated to rise at the fastest pace in the long run. The crunchy texture and mild flavor of this kimchi made with diced radish is boosting its popularity. Consumers seeking alternatives to cabbage-based kimchi are opting for this kimchi.
Where are Most Kimchi Sales Coming From?
The households/retail segment is forecasted to account for a substantial share of the global kimchi industry going forward. Extensive use of kimchi in home cooking in different parts of the world and incorporation of kimchi in everyday meals is cementing the dominance of this segment. Availability of kimchi in multiple retail establishments around the world is improving its accessibility and helping this segment generate more sales.
On the other hand, the demand for kimchi in the foodservice segment is slated to rise at an impressive CAGR through 2032. The growing popularity of Korean cuisine and high demand for unique fusion dining experiences are slated to help this segment expand business scope for kimchi vendors.
Global Kimchi Market By Product
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Kimchi Market Regional Insights
Why is Kimchi Highly Coveted in the Asia Pacific Region?
Asia Pacific dominates the kimchi market due to its cultural roots and strong consumption in countries like South Korea, China, and Japan. Widespread culinary traditions, growing exports, and increasing popularity of K-dramas and K-pop are expanding kimchi’s appeal across Asia. With both heritage and expanding regional penetration, Asia Pacific continues to lead global kimchi consumption and production volume.
Kimchi Market in Japan
Japan is a key kimchi consumer in Asia, second only to South Korea. Japanese consumers appreciate its tangy flavor and health benefits, often consuming it as a side dish with rice or noodles. Localized versions with milder spice levels cater to domestic taste preferences. Kimchi's association with fermented health foods aligns well with Japan’s dietary culture. Japanese manufacturers are producing their own kimchi to reduce import reliance and offer variations tailored to local palates.
Kimchi Market in South Korea
South Korea is the largest producer and consumer of kimchi as this is the country where it originated from. Kimchi is a staple in virtually every Korean meal and is deeply embedded in the national culture. Over 90% of households consume kimchi daily, with mass production and homemade varieties coexisting. The government actively promotes kimchi as a cultural export, with global marketing campaigns and international festivals. All these factors make South Korea the top country for kimchi manufacturers.
Why Should Kimchi Suppliers Target the North American Region?
North America is the fastest-growing kimchi market in the world. Rising awareness of gut health, demand for fermented foods, and increase in popularity of Korean cuisine are key factors creating new opportunities for kimchi vendors. Surge in domestic kimchi production by Korean American startups and fusion brands is also expected to boost revenue generation in this region.
Kimchi Market in United States
Heightened awareness of gut health and interest in global cuisines are projected to primarily drive consumption of kimchi in the United States. Americans increasingly recognize kimchi for its probiotic benefits, low calories, and bold flavors. Launch of fusion dishes like kimchi tacos and burgers in the country is also creating new opportunities for kimchi suppliers.
Kimchi Market in Canada
Presence of a massive multicultural population and rising preference for plant-based foods are helping boost kimchi demand in Canada. Ready availability of kimchi in Asian supermarkets, health food stores, and online stores is also supplementing market development. Rise in Korean cuisine's popularity is also favoring kimchi demand in the country.
Will Kimchi Providers Succeed in Europe?
Demand for kimchi in Europe is estimated to rise at a steady pace going forward. Growing interest of Europeans in plant-based diets, gut-friendly foods, and international cuisines is slated to supplement the consumption of kimchi in the long run. Surging demand and popularity of functional foods makes Europe a high potential region for kimchi companies through 2032 and beyond.
Kimchi Market in United Kingdom
Rapidly surging demand for functional foods and expanding vegan population are driving kimchi consumption in the United Kingdom. Popular supermarkets in the country such as Tesco and Sainsbury’s are offering a wide variety of kimchi and Korean food products to meet their growing demand. While traditionally niche, kimchi is now part of the country’s growing fermented foods scene.
Kimchi Market in Germany
Health-conscious Germans are turning to kimchi for digestive wellness and immune support. Local organic brands are producing mild, additive-free kimchi to suit European tastes. Establishment of new Korean restaurants and Asian supermarkets across major cities like Berlin and Munich in the country are improving accessibility to kimchi for Germans. Awareness campaigns by Korean cultural institutions are also influencing kimchi sales in the country.
Kimchi Market in France
Kimchi is emerging as a trendy health food and a fashionable culinary addition in France. French chefs are experimenting with kimchi in fine dining and fusion recipes. Cultural curiosity and increased focus on gut health are turning kimchi into a rising food trend in France. Artisanal and organic kimchi products are gaining attention, especially among millennials and health-focused consumers.
Global Kimchi Market By Region
- Largest
- Fastest
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Kimchi Market Dynamics
Kimchi Market Drivers
Cultural Popularity of Korean Cuisine (K-Wave)
- The global Korean Wave, or “Hallyu,” including K-pop, K-dramas, and Korean beauty, has significantly influenced international food trends. As consumers become more exposed to Korean culture, curiosity and demand for authentic Korean foods like kimchi have surged. Restaurants and food festivals globally are adding kimchi-based dishes, introducing it to diverse audiences. Additionally, celebrities and influencers endorsing Korean food are increasing visibility. This cultural influence is slated to bolster the global kimchi market outlook through 2032.
Rising Global Health Consciousness
- Kimchi, rich in probiotics, vitamins, and antioxidants, is increasingly recognized for its digestive and immune-boosting properties. As consumers globally seek functional foods that offer health benefits beyond basic nutrition, kimchi is gaining popularity outside South Korea. The fermented nature of kimchi appeals to the wellness trend, particularly among millennials and Gen Z who favor gut-health foods.
Kimchi Market Restraints
Short Shelf Life and Storage Requirements
- Kimchi, being a fermented product, has a relatively short shelf life and requires cold storage, especially in traditional forms. This complicates logistics, increases shipping costs, and limits availability in areas lacking cold-chain infrastructure. Inconsistent temperature during transit can lead to spoilage or altered taste, affecting consumer satisfaction. The need for refrigeration also limits its viability in countries with underdeveloped storage systems, ultimately hurting kimchi demand globally.
High Cost of Production for Premium Varieties
- Producing high-quality or organic kimchi often involves premium ingredients, artisanal methods, and strict fermentation control, driving up production costs. These costs are further exacerbated by international certifications (like USDA organic) and export logistics. As a result, kimchi in global markets may be priced higher than conventional pickles or condiments, limiting accessibility for price-sensitive consumers.
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Kimchi Market Competitive Landscape
Kimchi providers should focus on improving affordability and accessibility to their offerings around the world. Making kimchi available year-round available is also a key opportunity that most companies are focusing on. Targeting countries with rapidly expanding vegan population is slated to boost revenue generation as per this global kimchi market forecast.
Using local ingredients and premiumization of kimchi are two top trends that startups are expected to focus on going forward. Here are two startups that are revolutionizing kimchi experience for consumers.
- Kimchi Club: A premium fermented food startup from Australia that produces handcrafted, small-batch kimchi using local Australian produce. Founded in 2017, the company’s kimchi is organic, vegan, gluten-free, and focuses on gut health benefits. The brand is sold across health food stores and online platforms, gaining traction for its quality and clean ingredients.
- Chi Kitchen: This woman-owned fermented food company based in Rhode Island, United States has made a name for itself through artisanal kimchi. Variations like Vegan Napa Kimchi and Korean BBQ Kimchi are offered by this 2015-founded startup. The brand emphasizes probiotic wellness and clean-label ingredients, selling through Whole Foods and other specialty retailers.
Top Player’s Company Profiles
- Sinto Gourmet
- CJ CheilJedang Corp.
- JONGGA
- Daesang Corporation
- Lucky Foods
- Choi's Kimchi LLC
- NONGSHIM CO., LTD.
- Pulmuone U.S.A.
- Cosmos Food Co., Inc.
- Weifang Jiahe Food Co. Ltd.
Recent Developments in Kimchi Market
- In February 2025, Vadasz, a renowned provider of kimchi and chilled pickles announced the launch of naturally fermented and live cultured Kimchi Shot. This being the first of its kind to hit the market, it provides the benefits of kimchi on the go for busy consumers is a 60 ml packaging format.
- In November 2024, Narichan, a kimchi-focused company from South Korea launched a new ready-to-drink kimchi drink. The company intends to move beyond traditional boundaries to expand its business scope and boost its exports on a global level through this launch.
- In June 2024, Franklin Farms®, a division of Keystone Natural Holdings announced the launch of Organic Shredded Kimchi. The company expanded its plant-based offerings through this launch. The products were made available in Price Chopper & Market 32 stores in the Northeast United States.
Kimchi Key Market Trends
- Global Fusion and Culinary Innovation: Kimchi is being creatively integrated into global cuisines beyond traditional Korean dishes. Chefs and food brands are incorporating it into pizzas, tacos, sandwiches, pastas, and burgers to create unique flavor profiles. This fusion trend is gaining traction in the foodservice sector and among home cooks experimenting with bold, tangy, umami-rich ingredients. Ready-to-eat fusion meals and condiments featuring kimchi are also emerging in grocery aisles thereby making this a key kimchi market trend through 2032.
- Demand for Vegan and Clean-Label Kimchi: Consumers are increasingly opting for plant-based and clean-label foods, driving demand for vegan kimchi made without fish sauce or shrimp paste. Health-conscious buyers are also seeking organic, non-GMO, and additive-free kimchi varieties. Brands are responding with cleaner ingredient lists, transparent sourcing, and eco-friendly packaging. These variants appeal not only to vegans and vegetarians but also to those with dietary restrictions or sustainability values.
Kimchi Market SkyQuest Analysis
SkyQuest’s ABIRAW (Advanced Business Intelligence, Research & Analysis Wing) is our Business Information Services team that Collects, Collates, Correlates, and Analyses the Data collected by means of Primary Exploratory Research backed by robust Secondary Desk research.
As per SkyQuest analysis, growing health consciousness among people around the world and rise in popularity of Korean cuisine are forecasted to drive the demand for kimchi going forward. However, short shelf life and high costs of production for premium varieties of kimchi are anticipated to impede the consumption of kimchi in the future. The Asia Pacific region is the largest consumer and supplier of kimchi owing to South Korea being the birthplace of kimchi and high use in multiple Asian cuisines. Demand for vegan kimchi and emphasis on culinary innovation are also slated to be key trends driving the global kimchi market growth.
| Report Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Market size value in 2023 | USD 4.81 Billion |
| Market size value in 2032 | USD 7.59 Billion |
| Growth Rate | 5.2% |
| Base year | 2024 |
| Forecast period | 2025-2032 |
| Forecast Unit (Value) | USD Billion |
| Segments covered |
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| Regions covered | North America (US, Canada), Europe (Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Rest of Europe), Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, Rest of Asia-Pacific), Latin America (Brazil, Rest of Latin America), Middle East & Africa (South Africa, GCC Countries, Rest of MEA) |
| Companies covered |
|
| Customization scope | Free report customization with purchase. Customization includes:-
|
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Table Of Content
Executive Summary
Market overview
- Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Market Overview
- Exhibit: Executive Summary – Data Table on Market Overview
- Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Kimchi Market Characteristics
- Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Market by Geography
- Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Market Segmentation
- Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Incremental Growth
- Exhibit: Executive Summary – Data Table on Incremental Growth
- Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Vendor Market Positioning
Parent Market Analysis
Market overview
Market size
- Market Dynamics
- Exhibit: Impact analysis of DROC, 2021
- Drivers
- Opportunities
- Restraints
- Challenges
- Exhibit: Impact analysis of DROC, 2021
- SWOT Analysis
KEY MARKET INSIGHTS
- Technology Analysis
- (Exhibit: Data Table: Name of technology and details)
- Pricing Analysis
- (Exhibit: Data Table: Name of technology and pricing details)
- Supply Chain Analysis
- (Exhibit: Detailed Supply Chain Presentation)
- Value Chain Analysis
- (Exhibit: Detailed Value Chain Presentation)
- Ecosystem Of the Market
- Exhibit: Parent Market Ecosystem Market Analysis
- Exhibit: Market Characteristics of Parent Market
- IP Analysis
- (Exhibit: Data Table: Name of product/technology, patents filed, inventor/company name, acquiring firm)
- Trade Analysis
- (Exhibit: Data Table: Import and Export data details)
- Startup Analysis
- (Exhibit: Data Table: Emerging startups details)
- Raw Material Analysis
- (Exhibit: Data Table: Mapping of key raw materials)
- Innovation Matrix
- (Exhibit: Positioning Matrix: Mapping of new and existing technologies)
- Pipeline product Analysis
- (Exhibit: Data Table: Name of companies and pipeline products, regional mapping)
- Macroeconomic Indicators
COVID IMPACT
- Introduction
- Impact On Economy—scenario Assessment
- Exhibit: Data on GDP - Year-over-year growth 2016-2022 (%)
- Revised Market Size
- Exhibit: Data Table on Kimchi Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Impact Of COVID On Key Segments
- Exhibit: Data Table on Segment Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- COVID Strategies By Company
- Exhibit: Analysis on key strategies adopted by companies
MARKET DYNAMICS & OUTLOOK
- Market Dynamics
- Exhibit: Impact analysis of DROC, 2021
- Drivers
- Opportunities
- Restraints
- Challenges
- Exhibit: Impact analysis of DROC, 2021
- Regulatory Landscape
- Exhibit: Data Table on regulation from different region
- SWOT Analysis
- Porters Analysis
- Competitive rivalry
- Exhibit: Competitive rivalry Impact of key factors, 2021
- Threat of substitute products
- Exhibit: Threat of Substitute Products Impact of key factors, 2021
- Bargaining power of buyers
- Exhibit: buyers bargaining power Impact of key factors, 2021
- Threat of new entrants
- Exhibit: Threat of new entrants Impact of key factors, 2021
- Bargaining power of suppliers
- Exhibit: Threat of suppliers bargaining power Impact of key factors, 2021
- Competitive rivalry
- Skyquest special insights on future disruptions
- Political Impact
- Economic impact
- Social Impact
- Technical Impact
- Environmental Impact
- Legal Impact
Market Size by Region
- Chart on Market share by geography 2021-2027 (%)
- Data Table on Market share by geography 2021-2027(%)
- North America
- Chart on Market share by country 2021-2027 (%)
- Data Table on Market share by country 2021-2027(%)
- USA
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Canada
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Europe
- Chart on Market share by country 2021-2027 (%)
- Data Table on Market share by country 2021-2027(%)
- Germany
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Spain
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- France
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- UK
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Rest of Europe
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Asia Pacific
- Chart on Market share by country 2021-2027 (%)
- Data Table on Market share by country 2021-2027(%)
- China
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- India
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Japan
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- South Korea
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Latin America
- Chart on Market share by country 2021-2027 (%)
- Data Table on Market share by country 2021-2027(%)
- Brazil
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Rest of South America
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Middle East & Africa (MEA)
- Chart on Market share by country 2021-2027 (%)
- Data Table on Market share by country 2021-2027(%)
- GCC Countries
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- South Africa
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Rest of MEA
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
KEY COMPANY PROFILES
- Competitive Landscape
- Total number of companies covered
- Exhibit: companies covered in the report, 2021
- Top companies market positioning
- Exhibit: company positioning matrix, 2021
- Top companies market Share
- Exhibit: Pie chart analysis on company market share, 2021(%)
- Total number of companies covered
Methodology
For the Kimchi Market, our research methodology involved a mixture of primary and secondary data sources. Key steps involved in the research process are listed below:
1. Information Procurement: This stage involved the procurement of Market data or related information via primary and secondary sources. The various secondary sources used included various company websites, annual reports, trade databases, and paid databases such as Hoover's, Bloomberg Business, Factiva, and Avention. Our team did 45 primary interactions Globally which included several stakeholders such as manufacturers, customers, key opinion leaders, etc. Overall, information procurement was one of the most extensive stages in our research process.
2. Information Analysis: This step involved triangulation of data through bottom-up and top-down approaches to estimate and validate the total size and future estimate of the Kimchi Market.
3. Report Formulation: The final step entailed the placement of data points in appropriate Market spaces in an attempt to deduce viable conclusions.
4. Validation & Publishing: Validation is the most important step in the process. Validation & re-validation via an intricately designed process helped us finalize data points to be used for final calculations. The final Market estimates and forecasts were then aligned and sent to our panel of industry experts for validation of data. Once the validation was done the report was sent to our Quality Assurance team to ensure adherence to style guides, consistency & design.
Analyst Support
Customization Options
With the given market data, our dedicated team of analysts can offer you the following customization options are available for the Kimchi Market:
Product Analysis: Product matrix, which offers a detailed comparison of the product portfolio of companies.
Regional Analysis: Further analysis of the Kimchi Market for additional countries.
Competitive Analysis: Detailed analysis and profiling of additional Market players & comparative analysis of competitive products.
Go to Market Strategy: Find the high-growth channels to invest your marketing efforts and increase your customer base.
Innovation Mapping: Identify racial solutions and innovation, connected to deep ecosystems of innovators, start-ups, academics, and strategic partners.
Category Intelligence: Customized intelligence that is relevant to their supply Markets will enable them to make smarter sourcing decisions and improve their category management.
Public Company Transcript Analysis: To improve the investment performance by generating new alpha and making better-informed decisions.
Social Media Listening: To analyze the conversations and trends happening not just around your brand, but around your industry as a whole, and use those insights to make better Marketing decisions.
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