S. Korea to promote Korean name 'gim' for seaweed products overseas

SEOUL, Oct. 31 (Yonhap) -- The oceans ministry said Thursday it will work to establish the Korean name "gim" as a globally recognized term for seaweed products as part of efforts to boost their exports.

"South Korea has been facing hurdles in promoting its gim products, as they have been referred to by various names in the global market, such as nori, seaweed and laver," the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries said.

"We plan to promote the Korean name, gim, and seek to make it a global standard through the Codex Alimentarius Commission," it added.

The commission, established in 1962 by the World Health Organization and the Food and Agriculture Organization, is responsible for developing food standards.

"Once recognized, gim products will qualify for reduced tariff barriers, which will eventually help boost exports," the ministry added.

South Korea's exports of seaweed products, meanwhile, reached US$790 million in 2023, marking a 22.2 percent increase from the previous year. The country accounts for over 70 percent of the global market.

Dried seaweed is typically roasted with sesame seed oil and fine salt to be served as a side dish in Korean dining. Gim-based snacks have also recently gained popularity.

The oceans ministry also pledged to implement a grading system for seaweed products to provide consumers with more options and encourage producers to enhance quality.

South Korea will additionally work to expand production to meet rising global demand, including launching a pilot program to cultivate seaweed in offshore waters, it added.

colin@yna.co.kr
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