Halal Industry Expands in Korea with Rising Consumer and Industry Demand

South Korea’s halal industry, often called K-halal, is rapidly evolving from a niche segment into a growing mainstream market. Once overlooked by both consumers and businesses, halal-certified products are now attracting attention from domestic buyers as well as international trade partners. The movement is gaining momentum as Korean companies recognize the economic and cultural value of catering to both Muslim and non-Muslim consumers who view halal as a mark of trust and quality.

Rising exports and certifications

One of the strongest drivers of K-halal’s growth is its rising export value. Korean food companies are increasingly targeting Southeast Asian and Middle Eastern markets where halal products are in high demand. Exports of halal-certified goods such as instant noodles, sauces, beverages, and snacks have been climbing steadily. This growth is supported by the expansion of halal certification bodies in Korea, which now provide businesses with better access to international recognition and trade opportunities.

At the same time, domestic awareness is growing. Although Muslims account for only a small percentage of South Korea’s population, local companies are finding that non-Muslim consumers are also choosing halal products because of their association with hygiene, quality, and safety standards. This shift has encouraged many Korean brands to launch halal-friendly product lines.

Industry participation and new opportunities

Korean businesses, especially small- and medium-sized enterprises, are now taking part in global halal expos and trade fairs. These events not only showcase Korea’s halal-certified products but also create partnerships with foreign buyers, boosting the country’s reputation as an emerging halal hub. Beyond food, the halal sector in Korea is diversifying into cosmetics, personal care, and packaging, with halal certification becoming a wider symbol of reliability and trust.

Key challenges

Despite progress, challenges remain:

• Public understanding of halal in Korea is still limited, requiring stronger education and awareness campaigns.

• Differences in global halal standards make certification complex, and mutual recognition between countries is still evolving.

• Developing halal supply chains can be costly for smaller companies, especially when demand in certain categories remains modest.

• Access to halal restaurants and certified outlets outside major cities is still limited, showing the need for better infrastructure.

K-halal’s expansion carries important implications for South Korea. For businesses, halal certification opens doors to some of the world’s fastest-growing consumer markets. For the government, it supports trade diplomacy and strengthens ties with Muslim-majority countries. For consumers, both in Korea and abroad, it means greater access to trusted, high-quality products.

The industry’s future will depend on how quickly companies can scale certification, build reliable supply chains, and market halal products effectively to different consumer groups. If these steps are taken, South Korea has the potential to become a significant player in the global halal economy.