Exhibiting at Thaifex - Anuga Asia 2025

Korea Ginseng Association (KGA), headquartered in Seongnam, Republic of Korea, is the nation’s leading trade and certification body dedicated to the preservation, promotion, and global expansion of Korean ginseng. Established to ensure the integrity and quality of Korea’s most prized agricultural product, the association operates as a non-profit public-interest organization with a mission to uphold Korean ginseng's reputation worldwide.

Organization Overview

Founded under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Korea Ginseng Association plays a pivotal role in standardizing production, safeguarding geographical indications, and facilitating global market access for ginseng producers. It represents a coalition of growers, processors, exporters, and research bodies within Korea’s ginseng industry.

KGA is responsible for the Geographical Indication (GI) certification that distinguishes authentic Korean ginseng grown under designated conditions in approved regions, such as Geumsan, Punggi, Ganghwa, and Jeonnam.

Core Functions and Services

KGA provides a range of mission-critical services to stakeholders in the ginseng ecosystem:

• Certification and Quality Control

  • Management of Korea’s Geographical Indication for ginseng
  • Implementation of national grading standards and safety protocols
  • Authentication of product origin and quality through QR-coded seals

• Export Promotion and Market Development

  • Coordination of trade delegations to major markets
  • Representation at global trade shows including Vitafoods, SIAL, and Gulfood
  • Development of global marketing campaigns (e.g., “Best K Ginseng” branding)

• Education and Public Awareness

  • Operation of ginseng-focused learning centers
  • Publication of cultivation manuals and the Korean Ginseng Encyclopedia
  • Public seminars and media engagement on ginseng’s health benefits

• Cultural Promotion and Events

  • Annual Ginseng Festivals in Geumsan and Punggi
  • Cross-border cultural exchange programs and exhibitions
  • Digital storytelling and influencer marketing for younger audiences

Market Position and Economic Impact

Korea is globally recognized as the leading producer and exporter of Panax ginseng, and KGA is at the center of its trade facilitation and branding.

• South Korea exports approximately USD 200–250 million worth of ginseng annually
• Major export destinations include China, Japan, USA, Vietnam, and Hong Kong
• Over 30% of total ginseng production is exported
• Certified ginseng products fetch up to 25–40% higher prices in international markets compared to uncertified alternatives

KGA’s branding and certification programs have increased consumer confidence and enabled Korean ginseng to penetrate functional food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical sectors.

Global Initiatives and Collaborations

• Strategic MOUs with organizations such as:
  • Korea International Trade Association (KITA)
  • KOTRA (Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency)
  • International Ginseng Institute
• Partnerships with overseas health product distributors and K-Food promoters
• Conducting over 100 international B2B matchmaking events in the past five years

Product and Certification Categories

KGA covers a broad spectrum of ginseng products, including:

• Fresh Ginseng (4-year and 6-year roots)
• Red Ginseng Products: Concentrates, Capsules, Powders, Tea, Candy
• White Ginseng: Naturally dried ginseng roots
• Processed Health Supplements: Chewables, tablets, extract sticks
• Beauty & Cosmetics: Ginseng-infused serums and creams

All products eligible for certification must comply with:

• Geographical Origin Criteria
• Minimum Bioactive Content (ginsenosides)
• Heavy Metal and Residue Testing Standards

Certifications and Quality Marks

• Geographical Indication (GI) Certified Ginseng
• HACCP Certification for handling and processing
• MFDS Approval for health-functional labeling
• Export Labeling Compliance (FDA, EFSA, ASEAN, etc.)

Multimedia and Digital Resources

KGA has adopted a modern, multi-channel digital strategy:

• Active video presence on YouTube (@KGinseng) explaining cultivation, processing, and benefits
• Social media campaigns through Facebook and local platforms such as Naver
• Downloadable educational brochures in English, Japanese, and Chinese on:
  • Korean Ginseng Overview
  • Export Guidelines
  • Health Benefits and Usage

Stakeholder Testimonials

“KGA’s certification has significantly elevated the credibility of our red ginseng exports. Buyers consistently prefer GI-certified products.”
— Director, Korean Ginseng Exporter, Geumsan

“Their global outreach and matchmaking platform connected us with a US distributor in less than 3 months.”
— CEO, Herbal Supplement Manufacturer, Seoul

Recognition and Achievements

• Accredited by the Korean Intellectual Property Office for geographical indication management
• Awarded “Best Agricultural Certification Body” by Korean Ministry of Agriculture
• Facilitated the launch of the Best K Ginseng e-commerce portal for global buyers
• Increased ginseng brand recognition in ASEAN and MENA regions through strategic media investment

Korea Ginseng Association continues to uphold the cultural heritage, scientific credibility, and commercial value of Korean ginseng. Through its relentless pursuit of quality and authenticity, KGA plays an indispensable role in positioning Korea’s national treasure as a global standard in herbal wellness.