Black, crispy, often flat and square - dried seaweed, known locally as gim - is a humble staple on everyday dining tables across South Korea. But as its global popularity grows, its rising prices are worrying gim-lovers nationwide.
Lee Hyang-ran has been selling gim for the past 47 years. In the past, people from Western countries thought Koreans were eating something weird that looks like a piece of black paper, the vendor, who is in her 60s, says from a small market stall in central Seoul. I never thought I'd be selling gim to them. But now, they all come here and buy it.
South Korea is known to be the world's largest producer and exporter of gim, supplying markets across Asia, North America, and Europe. Some even refer to the product as Korea's 'black semiconductor', a nod to the country’s significant contributions to the global semiconductor market.
Exports of dried seaweed have risen steadily in recent years, with a record $1.13 billion reported by the Korea Maritime Institute in 2025. However, increasing demand has led to rising prices, transforming gim into a less affordable option. Previously costing around 100 won ($0.06) per sheet in 2024, prices surged to above 150 won last month, with premium products reaching up to 350 won per sheet.
As global appetites for Korean cuisine grow, the trend is reflected in consumer behaviors. Kim Jaela, who typically buys large quantities of gim, expresses concern over the recent price hikes, indicating a potential change in her purchasing habits. With many consumers now focused on online pricing, the affordability of their favorite snacks is becoming a growing concern.
The worldwide appetite for gim reflects an increasing global interest in Korean goods, spurred on by cultural phenomena such as K-pop and K-dramas. This growing exposure has prompted businesses worldwide to introduce Korean cuisine, further driving demand. A notable example is Trader Joe's Gimbap, which became a viral sensation shortly after its launch in the US.
Despite the hardships posed by rising prices, gim continues to be a beloved snack, with consumers from various backgrounds embracing its unique flavor. As South Korea’s Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries vows to monitor the situation closely and companies explore new methods of production, the future of this delicacy hangs in the balance as its international fame continues to expand.
