SHERIDAN, WYOMING – September 14, 2025 – Korea has been confirmed as the official partner country of Anuga 2025 in Cologne, bringing more than a showcase of flavors to the world’s leading food and beverage trade fair. With over 100 exhibitors under the banner “Flavour meets trends,” the nation will highlight how traditional culinary heritage can be leveraged to meet global consumer demand for health, sustainability, and innovation.
Fermentation as a Growth Engine for Functional Foods
Central to Korea’s presentation is its expertise in fermentation, a food processing method increasingly valued in global markets for its health benefits and natural preservation qualities. Kimchi alone, with more than 200 documented varieties ranging from mild dongchimi to kale-based reinterpretations, exemplifies the demand for probiotic, gut-friendly products. Its positioning aligns directly with the functional foods trend, making it a case study in how cultural staples can evolve into globally relevant health solutions.
K-Ramyeon and the Convergence of Pop Culture and Food Exports
The international profile of Korean ramyeon underscores how cultural exports are reshaping food markets. Viral phenomena such as the “Fire Noodle Challenge” or cinematic appearances like Parasite have transformed a staple noodle into a driver of global brand recognition. At Anuga, leading companies such as Samyang Foods, Nongshim, and Paldo will showcase diversified portfolios that respond to shifting demand:
- Low-calorie, gluten-free, and high-protein options for health-conscious consumers
- Plant-based and vegan-certified variants to capture flexitarian markets
- Eco-friendly packaging and carbon-neutral production practices for sustainability-driven buyers
By aligning new product development with consumer megatrends, Korean manufacturers are turning pop culture visibility into long-term export growth.
The Jang Trio and the Rise of Naturalism in Flavoring
Korea’s traditional sauces — ganjang (soy sauce), doenjang (fermented soybean paste), and gochujang (red chili paste) — will be positioned as heritage-based innovations. Their nutritional benefits and versatility reflect the global shift toward clean-label and “naturalism” in food formulation. UNESCO’s recognition of fermentation craftsmanship further strengthens their cultural and commercial value. Exhibitors such as Sempio Foods, Daesang, and Pulmuone Foods are expected to introduce allergen-free, truffle-infused, and low-sodium variants, making the sauces suitable for international regulatory environments and consumer expectations.
Industry Context: From Heritage to Scalable Global Exports
Korea’s participation comes at a time when international buyers are seeking scalable food solutions that balance authenticity with compliance. Halal-certified, vegan, and sugar-reduced innovations will be critical for expanding into Middle Eastern, European, and North American markets. By integrating artisanal methods with modern manufacturing, Korean food exporters are positioning themselves as reliable partners for retailers and foodservice operators adapting to fast-evolving consumer preferences.
Stakeholder Perspective on Global Connectivity
“Korean cuisine demonstrates how heritage can become a platform for innovation. From kimchi to the jang trio, the country’s food industry reflects both cultural depth and forward-looking product development,” said a spokesperson for Anuga. “As partner country, Korea is set to inspire international buyers by showing how local specialties can become global success stories.”
Strategic Value for Trade Visitors at Anuga 2025
For importers, distributors, and foodservice operators, Korea’s pavilion in Hall 5.2 and live cooking demonstrations on the Central Boulevard will provide direct insight into products that combine taste, health, and sustainability. With consumer-driven innovation on display, Anuga 2025 offers stakeholders the opportunity to identify new growth categories, establish supplier relationships, and anticipate market shifts driven by Korean food culture.
Learn more at www.anuga.com/partner-country