Exhibiting at International Food & Drink Event (IFE) 2025

Daesang UK is the United Kingdom-based subsidiary of Daesang Corporation, one of South Korea’s largest food companies, recognized globally for its leadership in fermented foods and Korean culinary innovations. As a strategic gateway to the European market, Daesang UK specializes in importing, distributing, and marketing authentic Korean food products under renowned global brands such as Jongga and O’Food.

Company Background

Daesang Corporation was founded in 1956 in South Korea and has evolved into a global food industry powerhouse with presence in over 80 countries. The UK subsidiary, Daesang UK, operates as a regional hub to bring Korean flavors to European consumers through tailored product offerings, regulatory compliance, and efficient logistics.

Core Business and Offerings

Daesang UK focuses on the distribution of high-quality Korean food products in the UK and broader European markets. Its product portfolio includes:

• Fermented Foods: Traditional and contemporary varieties of kimchi, with the flagship being Jongga Napa Cabbage Kimchi EU, specially formulated for European taste and regulatory standards.
• Ready-to-Eat Meals: Products like Original Tteokbokki catering to the convenience-driven food segment.
• Korean Sauces and Condiments: Including Gochujang Korean Chili Sauce and Kimchi Spread Sweet, aligned with global fusion food trends.

These products are stocked in major Asian grocery outlets, premium supermarkets, and increasingly through online retail platforms.

Market Position and Differentiation

Daesang UK stands out in the growing ethnic and Asian foods market in Europe by combining:

• Authenticity: Direct manufacturing roots in Korea ensure product originality.
• Localization: Recipes are customized to suit European palates without compromising on cultural essence.
• Sustainability: Adoption of eco-friendly packaging and fermentation methods that reduce waste and carbon footprint.

According to market research firm Mintel, Daesang products under the Jongga brand hold a dominant share of over 60% in the global kimchi export market, positioning the brand as the world’s number one kimchi brand.

Financial and Operational Insights

While financials for Daesang UK are not publicly broken out, Daesang Corporation reported KRW 3.04 trillion (approx. USD 2.3 billion) in revenue in 2023. Of this, the European segment, including Daesang UK, contributed significantly, driven by the increasing demand for Korean foods and successful entry of products into mainstream retail channels like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Ocado.

Shipment and Trade Data

Trade data from platforms like ImportYeti and TradeAtlas reveal that Daesang UK has received regular shipments from South Korea across categories like:

• Kimchi and fermented vegetables
• Sauces and condiments
• Instant Korean meals

In 2023 alone, Daesang UK was linked to over 250 import consignments valued at more than USD 4.5 million, signifying a strong and growing supply chain between Korea and the UK.

Target Market

Daesang UK's primary customer base includes:

• Retail Chains: European supermarkets, hypermarkets, and health food stores.
• HORECA Sector: Restaurants, hotels, and catering services looking for authentic Korean food ingredients.
• Online Shoppers: Health-conscious and trend-aware consumers buying Korean groceries online.

Millennials and Gen Z, with rising interest in K-food, K-pop, and Korean culture, form a substantial and growing share of their market.

Capabilities and Infrastructure

• EU-compliant Production and Packaging through centralized manufacturing and logistics systems.
• Local Warehousing and Distribution in London to ensure prompt delivery.
• Experienced Regulatory and Marketing Teams in the UK for local adaptation and promotions.
• Digital integration with online platforms and B2B ordering tools.

Certifications and Compliance

Daesang UK benefits from the global certifications held by Daesang Corporation, including:

• HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points)
• FSSC 22000 (Food Safety System Certification)
• ISO 9001 for quality management
• Halal and Vegan product lines to cater to diverse dietary needs

All imports to the UK meet EU and UK food safety and labeling regulations, ensuring trust and compliance across markets.

Customer Feedback and Reputation

Daesang UK’s products have received widespread praise on retailer websites and food blogs for their taste, authenticity, and quality. Notably:

• Jongga Kimchi averages 4.7/5 stars on Amazon UK and Ocado.
• Influencers and chefs often cite O’Food products in Korean recipe tutorials and reviews.
• The company is regularly featured in K-Food promotional campaigns supported by the Korean Ministry of Agriculture and Trade.

Major Achievements

• Jongga named “World’s Best Kimchi Brand” by Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corp.
• Selected supplier for K-Food promotional events across London, Paris, and Berlin.
• Strategic partnerships with retail giants like Whole Foods UK and Amazon Fresh.
• Participation in major food expos including IFE London, Anuga Germany, and SIAL Paris.

Daesang UK continues to be at the forefront of introducing Korean cuisine to the mainstream food landscape in Europe, building on decades of food innovation, cultural authenticity, and market insight.