Halal Industry Gains Momentum in South Korea Despite Challenges

Halal Industry Gains Momentum in South Korea Despite Challenges
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The halal industry in South Korea, long considered a niche sector in a country where Muslims make up less than 0.2 percent of the population, is gaining traction and moving into the mainstream, according to Arab News.

Industry figures show that South Korea’s halal food exports accounted for 11.1 percent of total agri-food exports in 2023, up from 9.4 percent the previous year. The number of halal certification institutions in Seoul has also grown, increasing from four to six in early 2025.

Kim Jin-woo, CEO of Halal Korea, who has promoted halal business for more than two decades, said the concept extends beyond food to fashion, beauty, culture, and daily living. He argues that South Korea is well-placed to tap into the global halal market, valued at more than $3 trillion.

Despite this progress, challenges remain. Public awareness about halal products is still limited, and some initiatives, such as proposed halal-food clusters, have met with resistance and protests from local groups. Advocates say more outreach is needed to address misconceptions and highlight the economic opportunities of halal industries.