Food scientists from South Korea are working hard to turn the country’s national dish kimchi, a potent blend of cabbage or other vegetables bathed in garlic, ginger and chilli, into an export-friendly phenomenon.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more


In as much as a global market already exists for the dish, it is cornered by Japan, which produces 70% of the kimchi sold outside South Korea. South Korea is hoping to overtake its historical archrival in terms of palatable kimchi production, however, claiming that the Japanese version of the dish is too bland in taste.


Doosan, the largest domestic producer of kimchi, has employed microbiologist Kim Sun Young to make a palatable version for sale in the US. Kim is convinced of the potential for South Korea’s kimchi’s global appeal, pointing out that numerous health benefits accompany the dish, including the possibility that it helps prevent cancer and high cholesterol while promoting healthier skin.


Another South Korean food company, Cheil Jedang Corp, has also employed the know-how of kimchi queen Kim Man Jo and her team of microbiologists.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Just Food Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Just Food Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact.

Excellence in Action
Winning five categories in the 2025 Just Food Excellence Awards, Centric Software is setting the pace for digital transformation in food and FMCG. Explore how its integrated PLM and PXM suite delivers faster launches, smarter compliance and data-driven growth for complex, multi-channel product portfolios.

Discover the Impact