Daebak Korean Food Trading is a specialty food producer and exporter based in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, Philippines. The company is known for its cross-cultural approach to food innovation, merging traditional Korean fermentation techniques with the rich agricultural bounty of the Philippines. Under its flagship brand "Wangsil," Daebak produces artisanal kimchi, fruit preserves, and natural sweeteners that cater to both local and international markets.
Core Business and Objectives
Daebak Korean Food Trading was established to address the growing demand for authentic Korean flavors adapted to Filipino taste preferences. The company's mission is to produce high-quality, export-grade Korean and Filipino-inspired food products while supporting local farmers and advancing sustainable food processing.
Key objectives include:
- Promoting Korean food culture through locally sourced ingredients
- Creating export-ready food products that meet international food safety standards
- Empowering rural communities by sourcing raw materials directly from local producers
Product and Service Offerings
Daebak Korean Food Trading offers a range of culturally inspired and health-oriented food products:
-
Wangsil Kimchi Radish (Cubed) – 500g Glass Jar:
- Fermented Korean-style cubed radish (kkakdugi) crafted with Filipino ingredients
-
Muscovado Sugar:
- Locally sourced and processed unrefined sugar with high molasses content, used as a natural sweetener
-
Calamansi Marmalade:
- A citrus-based preserve made from the native calamansi fruit, combining tart and sweet flavors
-
Mango Jam:
- Made from Philippine mangoes, processed into a thick, spreadable jam without artificial preservatives
All products are packed in sustainable, consumer-ready formats, with the kimchi being a best-seller due to its probiotic benefits and fusion taste profile.
Specialization and Core USP
Daebak’s unique strength lies in its ability to localize Korean food processing techniques using Philippine-grown ingredients. This results in:
- Cultural Fusion Innovation: Introduces Filipino consumers to Korean food in a locally familiar way
- Artisanal Fermentation: Kimchi is fermented traditionally, enhancing both flavor and health benefits
- Sustainable Sourcing: Ingredients are procured from smallholder farmers, ensuring ethical and fresh supply chains
Financials
As a micro-enterprise in a high-growth niche, Daebak Korean Food Trading has focused on product development and market validation:
- Estimated Annual Revenue: PHP 1–3 million
- Key Revenue Streams: Direct-to-consumer sales, food fairs, small-scale export orders
- Sales Channels: Local delicacy stores, food bazaars, and regional grocery partners
Shipment and International Exposure
Daebak Korean Food Trading has taken strategic steps toward export-readiness:
- Exported small-batch shipments of kimchi and fruit preserves to Korean groceries in Canada and the Middle East via consolidators
- Participated in local trade events sponsored by DTI and OTOP (One Town One Product)
- Plans underway for FDA export certification and shelf-life enhancement
Target Market
- Urban Filipino Consumers Interested in Korean Food
- Health-Conscious Buyers and Probiotic Enthusiasts
- Export Consolidators Catering to OFW Communities
- Gourmet and Specialty Retail Stores
Capabilities
- In-House Fermentation and Bottling Facility in Dumaguete
- Trained Food Handlers and Safety Protocols
- Small-Batch Customization for white-label and private label clients
- Product Development Team exploring new flavor profiles and shelf-stable packaging
Certifications and Compliance
- FDA-LTO Registration in progress
- LGU Sanitary and Business Permits
- Food Labeling Compliance with barcoding and nutritional information for domestic sale
Customer Testimonials
- "Finally, a kimchi that’s both Filipino and Korean at heart. It’s addicting!" — Consumer, Negros Oriental
- "Our customers in Dubai love the mango jam—it tastes just like home." — Filipino Grocery Retailer, UAE
Major Achievements
- Brand Launch of Wangsil with strong consumer recall
- Featured in local food expos and farmer-to-market events
- Established reliable sourcing agreements with local sugarcane and fruit farmers
- Gaining recognition in fusion food circles for high-quality, culturally inspired condiments and preserves
Daebak Korean Food Trading stands at the intersection of heritage and innovation, redefining Korean-Filipino fusion cuisine through artisanal quality and sustainable practices.
