Korean seaweed prices reached record highs as global demand continued to rise for a third consecutive year. According to the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation, mid-grade dried seaweed now averages 1,515 won per 10 sheets as of late January. This is the first time retail prices have surpassed 1,500 won per bundle.
Domestic prices rose steadily over the past several years due to strong exports. Last year, Korea exported 106.99 million bundles, each containing 100 sheets, a 13.7 percent increase over 2023. Officials said rising exports have a direct impact on local retail prices, affecting both producers and households.
Analysts explained that Korean seaweed remains highly valued in global markets due to its quality. Moreover, consumers in the United States, Japan, and Southeast Asia continue to purchase large quantities, supporting price growth. Experts also warned that limited supply caused by environmental factors could push prices higher.
The Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation tracks prices and provides market support. Officials recommended that producers improve cultivation efficiency while maintaining high standards. Furthermore, they advised exporters to expand into new markets to reduce reliance on a few buyers.
Domestic consumers have experienced higher prices for daily consumption. Retailers said demand remained strong despite price increases, showing the product’s importance in Korean cuisine and abroad. Many distributors introduced promotions and bulk sales to ease the impact on households.
Looking ahead, analysts expect Korean seaweed prices to remain elevated through the next year. Producers plan to adopt innovative farming and processing methods to balance supply and demand. Overall, the trend confirms that Korean seaweed has significant global value as both an export commodity and cultural staple.
