한국 K-푸드 산업 수출 동향에 관한 연구

초록

This study aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the global export trends of the Korean food (K-Food) industry, which has emerged as a key driver of national brand competitiveness in the 21st century. In particular, to elucidate the structural changes of K-Food, which entered the global mainstream market with ‘health’ and ‘convenience’ at the forefront starting from the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, this study utilized export and import trade statistics data from the Korea Customs Service from 2000 to 2025 by reclassifying 13 processed food categories based on HS codes corresponding to the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Standard Commodity Classification Codes (KAN codes). Specifically, multifaceted analyses were conducted on: 1) the annual overall export and import trends of the Korean food industry, 2) export amounts and growth rates by specific items, and 3) export trends by four major countries (USA, China, Japan, Vietnam). The results of the analysis are as follows. First, Korea’s food exports showed a steep growth trend starting from 2015, recording approximately 8.25 billion dollars in 2025, an 8.2-fold increase compared to 2000, entering a solid growth trajectory. Second, by item, Ramen led the total exports with overwhelming growth, and Seasoned Seaweed succeeded in positioning itself as a global well-being snack, growing more than 50 times. On the other hand, Alcoholic Beverages, a traditional export item, showed characteristics of a mature industry. Third, by country, a geographic diversification was confirmed where the largest export market shifted from Japan and China to the United States. In conclusion, it was confirmed that the Korean food industry has succeeded in expanding its market globally, centering on high-value-added processed foods, breaking away from a structure biased toward specific countries and items in the past. Although there are limitations in HS code classification, this study is significant in that it empirically clarifies the structural changes of K-Food amidst a rapidly changing trade environment, thereby providing foundational data for establishing customized export strategies in the future.

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