Seoul/Sejong, 15–19 March 2026 — In one remarkably active week, two Korean ministries advanced K-food diplomacy on three distinct fronts: a high-profile seafood showcase for France's culinary elite, record-breaking export results in Tokyo, and the launch of a nationwide chicken cuisine trail. Together, they signal that Korean food has become a full instrument of cultural and economic diplomacy.
K-Seafood Meets French Culinary Mastery
The week opened at the Pullman Ambassador Seoul Eastpole, where the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries (MOF) hosted a K-Seafood promotion pavilion during the World Congress of the Association des Maîtres Cuisiniers de France (MCF), 15–16 March — part of celebrations marking the 140th anniversary of Korea–France diplomatic relations. With over 500 member chefs from 20+ countries operating some 390 restaurants worldwide — including around 40 Michelin-starred establishments — MCF represents a transformative entry point into European fine dining. The congress moves outside France only once every five years; this year marks the first time Korea has hosted it.
Fifty products from 22 Korean companies competed in an ingredient evaluation judged by five MCF master chefs, with the top three earning supply opportunities to MCF-affiliated hotels, restaurants, and department stores. Participating chefs and buyers also visited Korean aquaculture sites to observe oyster, abalone, and seaweed production firsthand.
"We hope this event will serve as a gateway for Korean seafood products to enter the European market," said Acting Minister Kim Sungbum of MOF.
Record Results at FOODEX JAPAN 2026
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) reported strong results from the 51st FOODEX JAPAN (JPN, ENG) held 10–13 March, Asia's largest food exhibition. Korean exporters held 1,333 business meetings with international buyers, discussing USD 99 million in export value — up 11% year-over-year — and concluding 23 MoUs valued at USD 12 million, a 9% increase from 2025. With Japan accounting for 13% of total K-food export value, the ministry is prioritizing fresh produce, traditional alcoholic beverages, convenience foods, and health functional foods as strategic categories for 2026. Standout products included premium fruits, freeze-dried meal replacements, and protein-based functional foods, all tailored to Japan's growing health-conscious, convenience-driven consumer market.
The K-Chicken Belt: A National Culinary Corridor
On 19 March, MAFRA launched the "K-Chicken Belt" — the newest addition to its K-Gastronomy Belt initiative — linking Korea's beloved regional chicken dishes with local tourism, culture, and agriculture. Under the slogan "Chicken: Gateway to a Wider World," the route features samgyetang, dakgangjeong, Chuncheon dakgalbi, and Andong jjimdak, connecting them with the Korea Tourism Organization's curated gastronomy travel destinations nationwide. A public nomination campaign for hidden local gems runs through 12 April via the Korean Food Promotion Institute, with an official map expected in the first half of 2026.
"Through the K-Chicken Belt, we aim to elevate chicken from a single menu item into a gateway to Korea's rich culinary landscape," said Minister Song Miryung.
One Vision, Three Stages
Whether at a Michelin-starred table, a Tokyo trade fair, or a country road winding past a dakgalbi alley, the message is the same: K-food now competes at every level of the global culinary landscape — and Korea intends to keep it that way.
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Press releases translated by AI, edited by David Kendall
