Exports of Korean Instant Noodles Hit Another Record

Exports of Korean instant noodles reached a fresh all-time high in the first half of this year.

The Korea Customs Service said on Sunday that instant-noodle exports stood at US$383.4 million in the January-June period, breaking the previous record of $354.73 million set in the second half of last year (US$1=W1,298). 

The stellar performance was helped by the growing popularity of K-pop and Korean TV shows and movies, which have spurred interest in all things Korean. 

By country, China accounted for the largest share of exports at $91.91 million, followed by the U.S. ($47.86 million), Japan ($30.32 million), Taiwan ($14.83 million), the Philippines ($14.77 million), Thailand ($14.60 million), Malaysia ($13.04 million), Australia ($12.77 million), Canada ($11.59 million) and the Netherlands ($11.30 million).

"Korean instant noodles are often featured in Korean dramas and films, and that has increased interest in them and boosted sales overseas," an industry source said.

Annual exports of instant noodles broke record after record for seven consecutive years from 2015 ($218.8 million) to 2021 ($674.41 million).