Seoul/Sejong, 15–19 March 2026 — In one remarkably active week, two Korean ministries advanced K-food diplomacy on three distinct fronts: a high-profile seafood showcase for France's culinary elite, record-breaking export results in Tokyo, and the launch of a nationwide chicken cuisine trail. Together, they signal that Korean food has become a full instrument of cultural and economic diplomacy. K-Seafood Meets French Culinary Mastery The week opened at the Pullman Ambassador Seoul Eastpole, where the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries (MOF) hosted a K-Seafood promotion pavilion during the World
Korean food service brands are expanding their global footprint on the back of the Korean Wave (Hallyu), according to the Survey on the Overseas Expansion of Korean Food Service Companies, released by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) on February 6. MAFRA reported on January 12 that total K-Food+ exports reached USD 13.6 billion in 2025, a 5.1% year-over-year increase. That broke down to USD 10.4 billion from agri-food products and USD 3.22 billion from agro-industry products (smart farms, agricultural equipment, pet food, veterinary medical products, etc.). Both figu