Established in 2003 and based in Eumseong-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do, JK Global Inc. is a prominent South Korean exporter of premium seaweed products. With a strong presence in international markets, the company specializes in producing and distributing high-quality seasoned, roasted, and sushi-grade laver (nori). JK Global Inc. has carved a niche in the global seafood and health food segments through its unwavering commitment to quality, hygiene, and innovation.
Core Business
JK Global Inc. focuses primarily on the processing and global export of Korean laver (seaweed) and related food products. The company operates its own HACCP-certified production facilities, allowing full control over the supply chain—from raw material procurement to processing, packaging, and shipment.
In addition to laver, JK Global also engages in the export of Korean agricultural and seafood products, including live fish, frozen seafood, and health-oriented foods, catering to evolving global dietary preferences.
Product and Service Offerings
The company's diverse portfolio is tailored for global consumers and wholesalers:
Seaweed Products
- Seasoned Laver (조미김): Lightly salted and roasted sheets, popular as snacks
- Roasted Laver (구운김): Premium dry-roasted sheets
- Sushi Laver (스시용김): Full-sized sheets for sushi and kimbap preparation
- Kids' Snack Laver: Packaged for children with reduced sodium
Seafood and Health Food
- Frozen Seafood: Squid, mackerel, anchovies
- Health Foods: Functional snacks and natural sea-based ingredients
Specialisation and Core USP
JK Global’s core USP is its specialization in export-grade seasoned and roasted seaweed, which undergoes rigorous hygiene and taste profiling suited to international markets. The company invests significantly in R&D for texture and seasoning adaptation to align with local preferences in Japan, the USA, the Middle East, and Europe.
The use of advanced roasting and vacuum packing technologies ensures extended shelf life and consistent flavor—critical for exports to regions with long shipping durations.
Financial Overview
While being a privately held entity, third-party trade analysis platforms such as ECPlaza and Tradekorea estimate:
- Annual Revenue (2023): Approx. USD 5–7 million
- Revenue Contribution from Laver Exports: Over 70%
- Export Ratio: More than 80% of total output is exported
The figures underscore the company's strong export orientation and specialized manufacturing approach.
Shipment Data
Based on insights from Volza and ImportYeti:
- Total Export Shipments (Last 3 Years): Over 900 shipments
- Top Destinations: USA, Japan, UAE, Vietnam, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia
- Common Export Formats: 3g × 8 packs, 20g snack packs, sushi-sized sheets in vacuum packaging
Export data highlights JK Global’s stronghold in the health snacks and traditional seaweed snacks category globally, particularly in the Asian-American communities.
Target Market
JK Global targets B2B buyers including:
- International grocery chains
- Asian food importers and distributors
- Wholesalers for restaurants and HoReCa segments
- Online food retailers and specialty Korean food stores
Their seasoned and snack seaweed lines are also geared toward younger demographics and health-conscious consumers.
Capabilities
- Production Facility: HACCP-certified plant in Eumseong-gun
- Annual Processing Capacity: 2,400 tons of raw seaweed
- Packaging Formats: Individual snack pouches, family packs, bulk cartons
- Cold Chain & Logistics: Partnerships with refrigerated logistics providers for seafood exports
Certifications and Compliance
JK Global ensures strict compliance with international food safety and hygiene standards:
- HACCP – Certified facility for food safety and hygiene
- ISO 22000 – Food safety management system (pending renewal)
- FDA Registered – For U.S. exports
- Halal – Certification for selected product lines to serve Middle East markets
Customer Testimonials
“Their roasted laver sheets are among the crispiest and most authentic we’ve sourced from Korea. Excellent shelf life and packaging quality.”
— Purchasing Manager, Importer USA
“JK Global is reliable and always adapts product seasoning to our regional tastes. We’ve grown our sales by 30% with their snack line.”
— Distributor, Kuala Lumpur
Major Achievements
- Export Expansion: Active exports to over 15 countries across Asia, North America, and the Middle East
- Trade Show Participation: Regular exhibitor at FOODEX Japan, Seoul Food & Hotel, and Gulfood Dubai
- Brand Recognition: “JK Laver” recognized in Southeast Asian markets for quality and reliability
- Digital Growth: Recently integrated multilingual e-commerce support for global B2B inquiries
JK Global Inc. stands out as a dedicated and agile player in the global seaweed export market, leveraging Korea’s rich marine resources and combining them with global food processing standards to serve a rapidly growing demand for nutritious, low-calorie snacks and meal ingredients.