NK Fishery Co., Ltd., based in Busan, South Korea, is a specialized processor and exporter of high-grade frozen tuna and other large pelagic fish species. Established with a focus on premium quality and global seafood distribution, NK Fishery has earned recognition as a dependable supplier to international markets demanding sashimi-grade fish and bulk frozen seafood for foodservice and retail.
Company Background
Founded in the early 2000s, NK Fishery Co., Ltd. has grown to become one of South Korea’s leading marine product exporters, particularly renowned for its variety of tuna species. Located in Busan, South Korea’s largest port city and a strategic seafood processing hub, the company leverages proximity to global shipping lanes and a robust local fishing industry to maintain timely and efficient logistics.
The company has developed expertise in handling large pelagic species, with capabilities in whole fish processing, saku cutting, loining, and vacuum packaging—meeting the specific demands of international sashimi, sushi, and wholesale markets.
Core Business and Product Range
NK Fishery offers a wide range of frozen marine products, with a strong focus on tuna and similar species. Key product categories include:
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Tuna Varieties:
- Bluefin Tuna: Whole, saku blocks
- Bigeye Tuna: Whole, saku blocks
- Yellowfin Tuna: Whole, saku blocks
- Albacore Tuna: Whole, loin
- Skipjack (Bonito): Whole
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Billfish and Swordfish:
- Swordfish: DWT (Dressed Without Tail), belly off, chunks
- Striped Marlin: Belly meat, block
- Black (Blue) Marlin: Whole
- Sailfish: Whole, saku blocks, steak
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Other Large Pelagic Species:
- Moonfish (Opah): DWT, fillet, saku
- Sugiyama: Whole
- Wahoo: Whole
- Patagonian Toothfish: Neck meat, head, tail
The company specializes in customized processing formats, including vacuum-sealed blocks and loins ready for commercial kitchens and retail repackaging.
Specialization and Unique Selling Proposition
NK Fishery’s core strengths include:
- Focus on High-Value Tuna and Billfish: Expertise in sourcing, grading, and cutting premium quality species for sashimi and sushi markets
- Flexible Processing Capabilities: Whole fish, loins, saku blocks, fillets, and vacuum packaging formats
- Consistent Quality Control: Cold chain integrity from vessel unloading to final shipment
- Location Advantage: Proximity to Busan’s international logistics infrastructure ensures fast turnaround times for exports
Financials and Market Footprint
Although privately held and without public financial disclosure, NK Fishery has an active international presence. Based on trade intelligence platforms:
- The company ships several hundred metric tons of tuna and billfish annually
- Export value estimated between $5 million to $10 million USD annually
- Products exported to over 20 countries, including:
- Japan
- United States
- China
- Vietnam
- Thailand
- Spain
- France
- Participates in international seafood exhibitions and has built a long-term clientele in the wholesale and foodservice sectors
Shipment and Export Data
According to global shipment tracking and sourcing platforms:
- NK Fishery has completed over 500 international shipments in the last 5 years
- Frequent 20-foot and 40-foot reefer container loads to Asia-Pacific, Europe, and North America
- Products are typically shipped frozen at -60°C to maintain sashimi-grade freshness
Target Market
The company serves a diverse international customer base, including:
- Sashimi and sushi restaurants
- Seafood distributors
- Retail packers for frozen seafood
- Importers of premium-grade tuna
- Wholesalers supplying HORECA channels
Clients value NK Fishery’s reliable supply of large pelagic fish processed to their specific format and quality standards.
Capabilities
- Custom Cutting and Packaging: Saku blocks, loins, fillets, vacuum-sealed pouches
- Cold Storage and Freezing: Deep freezing (-60°C) capabilities for sashimi-grade fish
- Logistics Coordination: Strong partnerships with freight forwarders and port operators in Busan
- Traceability and Sourcing: Sourced from verified fishing vessels and compliant with South Korean fisheries regulations
Certifications and Compliance
Though specific certifications are not publicly listed, companies in South Korea engaged in seafood exports typically comply with:
- KFDA (Korea Food & Drug Administration) for food safety
- HACCP-certified facilities for seafood processing
- EU-Approved Plant Listings for export to European markets
- FDA Registration for compliance with U.S. seafood import regulations
- Participation in Traceability and Catch Documentation Schemes (CDS) for tuna
NK Fishery maintains compliance with South Korea’s rigorous seafood export policies and industry standards for hygiene and product safety.
Customer Testimonials
“Our restaurant group has relied on NK Fishery’s bigeye tuna saku blocks for years. The consistency and cut quality are among the best we’ve worked with.” — Japanese Sushi Chain Buyer
“Their ability to provide vacuum-packed loins with zero drip loss is a major value-add for our cold chain supply.” — Seafood Importer, USA
Major Achievements
- Developed strong presence in East Asian and European sashimi markets
- Maintains long-term partnerships with buyers in Japan and Vietnam for bluefin and yellowfin tuna
- Recognized for providing customized processing services to premium restaurant suppliers
- Participated in key seafood trade events such as Busan International Seafood & Fisheries EXPO
NK Fishery Co., Ltd. continues to build its reputation as a trusted supplier of high-quality frozen tuna and pelagic species by offering processing precision, timely delivery, and commitment to product excellence in the global seafood trade.
