From January to July this year, South Korea’s rice-based processed food exports reached an unprecedented $166.12 million, a 45.6% increase compared to the same period last year. The United States led in imports, making up 56.8% of the total, with a 68% year-over-year increase. Products like frozen gimbap, instant rice, and tteok (rice cakes) have surged in popularity internationally, fueled by global trends in health food and the Hallyu wave.

Frozen gimbap, in particular, has seen significant success due to its popularity on social media and its availability in major retail chains, resulting in a sharp increase in exports. If the current trend continues, South Korea's annual exports of rice-based processed foods are expected to surpass last year’s record of $217.24 million.

South Korea’s rice-based processed food exports have consistently grown since 2015, with the industry surpassing $100 million for the first time in 2019 and crossing the $200 million threshold last year. In response to the rising global demand, the South Korean government plans to bolster support for the industry, targeting a domestic market expansion to 17 trillion won and an increase in exports to $400 million by 2028.

However, despite the success in exports, domestic rice prices in South Korea have declined due to a surplus supply. As of August 5, the price of rice in producing areas was 44,619 won per 20kg, a 7% decrease from the previous year. To address this, the National Agricultural Cooperative Federation (NACF) plans to offer budget and logistics support to cooperatives involved in the export of rice-based processed foods.

In celebration of “Rice Day” in South Korea, popular bakeries such as SungSimDang and IseongDang will host events promoting rice flour bread, while nationwide GS25 convenience stores will offer discounts on rice-based meals during morning hours from August 19 to September 8. "Rice Day" is celebrated annually on August 18 and marks its 10th anniversary this year.

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