Different European Countries Choose Different K-Foods: Ramen Not Always No.1
Creatrip Team
a month ago
K-food exports to Europe rose 22.8% in 2024 to about $906 million, but the top exported items vary by country. The UK buys mostly instant ramen (22.2% of EU exports; 39.4% in the UK), while France and Italy import far more frozen tuna (about 48% in France, 43.7% in Italy). Spain’s growth is driven by frozen squid and tuna and by sauces like gochujang (고추장). Northern markets such as Sweden favor processed items, with ramen making up 48.4% there. Overall recognition of Korean products is high across Europe, helped by a healthy image and tariff benefits from FTAs, yet challenges remain: limited product variety, weaker price competitiveness, low awareness in areas with fewer Asian communities, and strict EU rules on mixed (animal/plant) ingredient foods requiring approved processing. (gim: dried seaweed) (kimchi: fermented vegetable dish)
