Exhibiting at Thaifex - Anuga Asia 2025

Donghwa Food Co., Ltd., established in 1989, is a seasoned food processing manufacturer based in Sokcho-si, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea. The company has spent over three decades mastering the art of fermented seafood production, with a specialized focus on traditional Korean salted and fermented delicacies. Leveraging Korea’s long-standing heritage of seafood fermentation and their strategic proximity to the East Sea, Donghwa Food has emerged as a prominent supplier to both domestic markets and international buyers seeking authentic Korean flavors.

Core Business

Donghwa Food's core competency lies in producing fermented and salted seafood products, a cornerstone of traditional Korean cuisine. The company utilizes traditional fermentation techniques combined with modern hygienic manufacturing processes to deliver products that preserve authentic flavor while ensuring food safety.

Product and Service Offerings

Donghwa Food offers a diverse portfolio under its flagship brand "Omani", including:

• Omani Salted Seafood:

  • Salted Flounder (Gajami Sikhae)
  • Salted Pollock (Myeongran-jeot)
  • Salted Ming Fish

• Fermented and Salted Specialties:

  • Fermented Squid (Ojingeo Jeotgal)
  • Salted Sea Squirt
  • Salted Pollack Roe
  • Salted Pollack Intestine
  • Salted Pollack Slices
  • Salted & Seasoned Poulp Squid

These products are packaged in both retail and bulk formats, catering to grocery retailers, restaurants, and distributors in Korea and overseas.

Specialisation and Unique Selling Proposition

Donghwa Food’s specialization lies in:

• Traditional Korean fermentation methods refined over 30+ years.
• A consistent focus on pollack-based products, offering wide variety from roe to intestines and slices.
• The use of fresh catch from the East Sea, delivering superior quality and traceability.
• Low-salt fermentation techniques, aligning with modern dietary preferences while preserving authentic taste.

Financial Performance

As a privately held company, Donghwa Food does not publicly disclose its financials. However, estimates based on industry directories and Korean business registries indicate an annual revenue in the range of KRW 5–7 billion (approximately USD 3.5–5 million). The export segment is a steadily growing share of this revenue, particularly driven by increased global demand for Korean cuisine.

Shipment and Export Data

Data from trade sources and Korean export promotion agencies suggest:

• Donghwa Food has exported products to markets including Japan, the United States, China, and Southeast Asia.
• Major exported items include Salted Pollack Roe and Fermented Squid, both popular in K-food sectors abroad.
• The company ships under both the "Omani" brand and via OEM contracts for Asian grocery brands internationally.

Target Market

Donghwa Food primarily targets:

• Korean diaspora markets looking for traditional fermented products abroad.
• Asian food retailers and specialty Korean grocery stores.
• Foodservice and restaurant chains seeking authentic fermented condiments.
• Private label distributors requiring traditional products with consistent quality control.

Capabilities

• Factory location: Sokcho-si, close to East Sea fishery hubs, allowing efficient sourcing of raw seafood.
• Production system: HACCP-compliant, equipped with modern storage and fermentation units.
• Personnel: Skilled technicians and quality control experts trained in traditional fermentation science.
• Cold-chain logistics: Full capability for cold and frozen product handling to preserve freshness and safety.

Certifications and Compliance

• HACCP Certification (Korea) for seafood processing and fermentation.
• Registration with Korean Food and Drug Administration (KFDA).
• Export License with sanitary certification for selected markets (e.g., Japan, USA).
• Compliance with Korean national safety standards for marine and fermented food production.

Customer Testimonials

Buyers have noted in industry feedback:

“Omani’s salted pollack roe is a staple on our Korean food shelves—excellent flavor retention and quality control.” – Korean Grocery Chain, California

“Donghwa Food understands traditional taste profiles. Their salted squid is a best-seller in our fermented product range.” – Japanese Importer

Major Achievements

• Successfully maintained a consistent export record despite high sensitivity of fermented seafood logistics.
• Recognized by regional government programs in Gangwon-do for traditional food preservation and export growth.
• Featured in Korean trade directories and food expos under the “K-Food” national branding initiative.
• Developed a niche premium fermented seafood line suitable for gifting and high-end Korean restaurants.

Donghwa Food Co., Ltd. remains a cornerstone of Korea’s fermented seafood industry, offering tradition-rich products with modern compliance and global appeal.