Korean Seaweed ‘Kim’ Gains Global Popularity – BBC Reports Price Surge

Seoul, South Korea – A surge in global demand for Korean seaweed, or ‘gim’ as it is known domestically, is causing concern in South Korea as prices reach record highs. The increasing popularity of Korean culture, fueled by the international success of K-pop and Korean dramas, is being credited with driving the demand, prompting some to dub the product “black gold” due to its economic significance.

According to data from the Korea Marine and Fisheries Development Institute (KMI), South Korea’s seaweed exports reached a record 2025 high of 1.13 billion US dollars (approximately 1.6 trillion Korean won). This makes South Korea the world’s largest producer and exporter of seaweed, supplying markets across Asia, North America, and Europe.

The BBC reported that the rising demand is linked to the ‘Korean Wave’ – the global popularity of South Korean entertainment and cuisine. Viewers of Korean dramas and fans of K-pop are increasingly seeking out the foods featured in their favorite shows and music videos, with seaweed being a prominent example. Foreign tourists visiting South Korea have also expressed their enthusiasm for the snack, describing it as a “representative food that often appears in Korean dramas” and a “healthy alternative to potato chips.”

The affordability of seaweed has traditionally been a key part of its appeal within South Korea. However, the recent price increases are causing concern among domestic consumers. Last month, the price of a single sheet of seaweed surpassed 150 Korean won, reaching an all-time high. A seaweed vendor, aged 60, told the BBC, “Before, Westerners thought Koreans were eating strange black paper. But now, they come here and buy it. Everyone comes here and buys gim.”

The situation highlights a growing trend: the economic impact of South Korea’s cultural exports. The success of industries like semiconductors is often cited as a cornerstone of the South Korean economy, and some are now drawing parallels with the seaweed industry. The BBC report noted that seaweed is increasingly referred to as the “black semiconductor” within South Korea, reflecting its growing importance as an export commodity.

The price sensitivity within South Korea is also a factor. A seaweed producer in Wando, South Korea, explained to the BBC that even small price fluctuations are keenly felt by consumers, given the product’s historical affordability. This suggests that maintaining a stable and accessible domestic supply will be crucial as export demand continues to rise.

The surge in demand for Korean seaweed is not merely a commercial phenomenon; it’s a reflection of the broader cultural influence of South Korea on the global stage. The success of ‘Squid Game’ and other Korean dramas, as highlighted in recent BBC reporting, has demonstrably increased interest in Korean culture and, by extension, Korean products. This trend underscores the growing economic power of cultural exports and their ability to drive demand for traditionally local goods.

The implications of this trend extend beyond South Korea. Other countries looking to capitalize on the growing global appetite for Korean culture may seek to emulate South Korea’s success in promoting their own culinary traditions. The seaweed boom also serves as a case study for understanding how cultural exports can translate into tangible economic benefits, potentially influencing trade policies and investment strategies.

While the rising prices are a concern for domestic consumers, the overall outlook for the South Korean seaweed industry remains positive. The continued popularity of Korean culture, coupled with the perceived health benefits of seaweed, suggests that demand will likely remain strong in the years to come. However, managing the balance between export opportunities and domestic affordability will be a key challenge for South Korean policymakers and industry stakeholders.

The situation also raises questions about the sustainability of seaweed production. Increased demand could put pressure on marine ecosystems and require careful management of seaweed farms to ensure long-term viability. Further research and investment in sustainable aquaculture practices will be essential to meet the growing global demand while protecting the environment.

The story of Korean seaweed is a compelling example of how cultural trends can have significant economic consequences. From a humble staple of the Korean diet to a globally sought-after commodity, ‘gim’ has become a symbol of South Korea’s growing cultural and economic influence. The challenge now is to ensure that this success is sustainable and benefits both domestic consumers and the global market.