Food: Kimchi Craze: Korean Cuisine's Delicious Ascent Across the United States
- InsightTrendsWorld
- Jul 1
- 12 min read
Why it is the topic trending: From K-Pop to Corn Dogs: Why America's Appetite for Korean Food is Surging
Broad Culinary Spectrum: Korean food's popularity is evident across a wide range, from high-end restaurants earning culinary awards to viral street food trends like cheesy corn dogs on TikTok.
Shifting Asian Food Landscape: While Chinese, Japanese, and Thai food have historically dominated Asian restaurants in the U.S., a clear demand for more Korean dining options is emerging.
Evolution of Korean Food in the US: The rise began with Korean fried chicken, followed by kimchi becoming a popular condiment, and the introduction of ready-made Korean barbecue sauces.
Mainstream Penetration: The availability of Korean corn dogs at Costco signifies a major step into the mainstream American food market.
Overview: Spicy, Sweet, and Everywhere: Tracing the Explosive Growth of Korean Food in America
The article explores the significant increase in the popularity of Korean food in the United States. It highlights the journey of Korean cuisine from initial introductions like fried chicken and kimchi to its current widespread availability, including Korean corn dogs at major retailers like Costco. The article uses data to show the growth in Korean restaurants and the expansion of Korean flavors into fast food chains, while also noting the rise of Korean fine dining. Experts attribute this surge to the appealing spicy and sweet flavor profiles and the broader influence of Korean culture, including K-pop and K-beauty, on American consumers.
Detailed findings: By the Numbers and Flavors: Key Insights into Korean Food's Popularity
Korean food's popularity is surging across the U.S., from fine dining to TikTok trends.
There is a clear appetite for more Korean restaurants despite Chinese, Japanese, and Thai food dominating the Asian restaurant scene historically.
Korean fried chicken was an early popular introduction, followed by kimchi and Korean BBQ sauces.
Korean corn dogs are now available at Costco, indicating mainstream acceptance.
In 2024, there was a 10% increase in the number of Korean restaurants in the U.S.
The number of fast food chains offering Korean fried chicken and corn dogs has increased by about 15% each from the previous year.
Korean fine dining establishments are also gaining popularity.
Two Hands Corn Dogs, a major Korean food chain, has expanded to over 70 national locations since opening its first store in 2019.
Americans' interest in K-pop music and K-beauty products is contributing to their interest in South Korean food.
Expect to see more inventive fusion flavors on menus as Korean cuisine gains traction in more U.S. cities, such as crawfish fried rice in New Orleans and Korean beef tacos in Detroit.
Key success factors of product (trend): The Secret Sauce: What's Driving America's Love for Korean Food
Appealing Flavor Profile: The combination of spicy and sweet flavors in many Korean dishes resonates strongly with American palates.
Cultural Influence: The widespread popularity of Korean culture, including music (K-pop) and beauty products (K-beauty), has created a greater openness and interest in Korean food.
Adaptability and Innovation: Korean cuisine lends itself well to fusion with other culinary traditions, leading to exciting and novel flavor combinations.
Variety of Options: From casual street food to sophisticated fine dining, Korean cuisine offers a wide range of choices to suit different preferences and occasions.
Visually Appealing Food: Dishes like Korean corn dogs with their dramatic cheese pulls are highly shareable and engaging on social media platforms like TikTok.
Key Takeaway: Korean Cuisine Conquers America: A Delicious Wave from Fine Dining to Fast Food
The key takeaway is that Korean food is experiencing a significant boom in popularity across the United States, evident in the growth of Korean restaurants, the expansion of Korean-inspired offerings in fast food, and the mainstream availability of items like Korean corn dogs, largely driven by its appealing flavors and the pervasive influence of Korean culture.
Main trend: The Globalization of Taste: Korean Cuisine's Ascendance in American Food Culture
The main trend is the increasing globalization of food culture, with Korean cuisine emerging as a significant and rapidly growing segment within the American culinary landscape, moving beyond niche markets to become a mainstream favorite.
Description of the trend (please name it): The K-Cuisine Conquest: Describing the Flourishing Popularity of Korean Food in the U.S.
The K-Cuisine Conquest: This trend describes the substantial and accelerating increase in the popularity and availability of Korean food across the United States, marked by growth in restaurant numbers, the mainstream adoption of Korean dishes and flavors, and the integration of Korean cuisine into various levels of the American dining experience, from fast food to fine dining.
Description of consumers article is referring to: Who's Saying "Annyeong" to New Flavors? Describing the American Consumer Embracing Korean Food
Likely individuals open to trying new and international cuisines: Consumers who are adventurous in their food choices are driving the trend.
Fans of spicy and sweet flavor profiles: These are highlighted as key characteristics appealing to American tastes.
Individuals influenced by popular culture: Interest in K-pop and K-beauty is translating into interest in Korean food.
Potentially a broad demographic: The appeal ranges from those seeking affordable street food to those interested in fine dining experiences.
Social media users: Trends like Korean corn dog cheese pulls on TikTok indicate influence from online platforms.
Costco shoppers: The availability of Korean corn dogs at Costco suggests a wide mainstream appeal.
Who are them: American consumers who are increasingly open to exploring and enjoying international cuisines, particularly those with a balance of spicy and sweet flavors. They are often influenced by broader cultural trends, including music and beauty, and are engaging with Korean food across various dining experiences, from casual snacks to upscale meals.
What kind of products they like: They enjoy a variety of Korean dishes, including fried chicken, kimchi, barbecue, and street foods like corn dogs. They are also likely interested in ready-to-use Korean sauces and condiments for home cooking.
What is their age?: The trend likely appeals to a broad age range, with younger generations potentially being more influenced by social media and K-pop, while older consumers may be drawn to the unique flavor profiles and health benefits associated with some Korean dishes.
What is their gender?: The appeal of Korean food likely transcends gender.
What is their income?: The availability of Korean food across different price points, from affordable fast food to higher-end dining, suggests that consumers of various income levels are participating in this trend.
What is their lifestyle: They likely lead busy lives and appreciate the convenience of fast food options, as well as the experience of dining out at restaurants. They are also influenced by global cultural trends.
What are their shopping preferences in the category article is referring to: They are likely to seek out Korean restaurants and products in their local areas, as well as explore online options for ingredients and prepared foods. The presence in Costco suggests a desire for value and accessibility.
Are they low, occasional or frequent category shoppers: This would vary depending on individual preference and exposure to Korean food. Some may be trying it for the first time, while others are regular consumers.
What are their general shopping preferences - how they shop products, shopping motivations): They are likely influenced by trends, recommendations, and the desire for new and exciting flavors. Convenience and value are also likely important factors, as seen with the popularity of fast food and Costco.
Conclusion: The American consumer embracing Korean food is diverse, ranging from adventurous eaters to those influenced by popular culture, who are drawn to the unique and appealing flavors and the variety of dining experiences that Korean cuisine offers.
What is consumer motivation: Craving Korea: Why Americans Are Developing a Taste for Korean Cuisine
Flavor Excitement: The distinctive balance of spicy and sweet flavors provides a novel and appealing taste experience.
Cultural Curiosity: Interest in K-pop and K-beauty sparks a desire to explore other aspects of South Korean culture, including its food.
Nostalgic Comfort: For some, particularly those with Korean heritage, these foods evoke positive memories and a sense of comfort.
Social Media Influence: Viral food trends, like cheesy corn dogs, create widespread interest and a desire to try them.
Health Perceptions: Some Korean dishes, like those featuring fermented ingredients like kimchi, are perceived as healthy.
What is driving trend: The Hallyu Wave and Culinary Innovation
The Global Reach of Hallyu (Korean Wave): The worldwide popularity of K-pop, K-dramas, and K-beauty has significantly increased awareness and interest in all things Korean.
Culinary Entrepreneurship: Korean chefs and restaurateurs are successfully introducing and adapting Korean dishes for American palates.
Mainstream Retail Adoption: Major retailers like Costco stocking Korean food products signals a broader market acceptance and demand.
Fusion Cuisine Innovation: The willingness of Korean chefs to experiment with fusion flavors attracts a wider range of consumers.
What is motivation beyond the trend: Seeking Global Flavors and Authentic Experiences
Desire for Culinary Adventure: Americans are increasingly seeking out diverse and authentic culinary experiences from around the world.
Connection to Global Cultures: Food provides a tangible way to connect with and learn about different cultures.
Conclusions: From Obscure to Ubiquitous: Korean Food's Journey into the American Palate
Korean food has transitioned from a relatively niche cuisine to a widespread and increasingly popular option in the United States. This growth is fueled by its appealing flavor profiles, the pervasive influence of Korean popular culture, and the entrepreneurial spirit of those introducing and adapting Korean dishes for American consumers.
Implications for brands: Spice Up Your Offerings: Opportunities for Food Businesses to Embrace Korean Flavors
Restaurants: Can benefit by adding popular Korean dishes or Korean-inspired fusion items to their menus.
Food Manufacturers: There is a growing market for ready-to-eat Korean meals, sauces, and snacks.
Grocery Retailers: Stocking a wider variety of Korean ingredients and products can cater to consumer demand.
Implication for society: A More Diverse Culinary Landscape:
The increased popularity of Korean food contributes to a richer and more diverse American food culture.
Implications for consumers: More Delicious Choices:
Consumers have an expanding array of flavorful and exciting Korean food options available to them.
Implication for Future: The Continued Climb of Kimchi: Expect Korean Cuisine to Further Integrate into American Diets
The trend suggests that Korean cuisine will continue to grow in popularity and become even more integrated into the everyday diets of Americans, with further innovation and regional adaptations.
Consumer Trend: Global Grub:
Name: Korean Culinary Rise
Detailed description: A significant increase in the popularity and consumption of Korean food across the United States.
Consumer Sub Trend: Fusion Fascination:
Name: Korean Culinary Mashups
Detailed description: Growing interest in and experimentation with fusion dishes that blend Korean flavors with other culinary traditions.
Big Social Trend: The K-Wave's Culinary Current:
Name: Hallyu's Food Influence
Detailed description: The global popularity of Korean culture (K-pop, K-beauty) significantly impacts the demand for Korean food.
Worldwide Social Trend: Global Palates Evolving:
Name: International Cuisine Acceptance
Detailed description: A worldwide trend of increasing openness and interest in trying diverse international cuisines.
Social Drive: Seeking Flavor and Cultural Connection:
Name: Taste the Culture
Detailed description: Consumers are motivated by the desire for new and exciting flavors, as well as a way to connect with different cultures through food.
Learnings for brands to use in 2025:
Embrace Global Flavors: Korean food's popularity highlights the potential of international cuisines.
Consider Cultural Synergies: Tie-ins with popular culture like music and beauty can boost food trends.
Offer Variety and Accessibility: Cater to different consumer preferences and price points.
Strategy Recommendations for brands to follow in 2025:
Explore Korean-Inspired Product Development: Incorporate popular Korean flavors into existing product lines.
Partner with Korean Food Influencers and Chefs: Collaborate to create authentic and appealing offerings.
Highlight Fusion Opportunities: Showcase innovative dishes that blend Korean cuisine with other traditions.
Final sentence (key concept) describing main trend from article (which is a summary of all trends specified), and what brands & companies should do in 2025 to benefit from trend and how to do it.: The Korean Culinary Conquest: Riding the Hallyu Wave to American Plates, Urging Brands to Embrace Flavor and Cultural Connections in 2025
Core Trend: The Kimchi Kick: Korean Cuisine's Explosive Flavor Takeover in America
Final Note:
Core Trend: Korean Culinary Rise - A significant increase in the popularity and consumption of Korean food across the United States.
Core Strategy: Spice Route to Success - Brands capitalizing on America's Korean food craze by strategically incorporating Korean flavors.
Core Industry Trend: Taste Without Borders - The irresistible rise of global flavors, with Korean cuisine as a prime example, in the U.S. foodscape.
Core Consumer Motivation: Flavorful Exploration - Americans' driven appetite for Korean culinary adventures, seeking new and exciting taste experiences.
Final Conclusion:
The widespread embrace of Korean food across the United States in 2025 signifies a profound shift in American culinary preferences, driven by compelling flavors, cultural exchange, and entrepreneurial innovation. This trend offers significant opportunities for the food industry to cater to an increasingly adventurous and globally aware consumer base, promising a future where Korean cuisine remains a vibrant and integral part of the American dining experience.
Core Trend Detailed: The Korean Culinary Ascent: From Hidden Gem to American Mainstay
The core trend is the substantial and accelerating increase in the popularity and availability of Korean food across the United States. This surge is evident in the proliferation of Korean restaurants, spanning diverse formats from fast-casual to fine dining, and the mainstream adoption of Korean flavors and dishes into the broader American culinary landscape. This movement reflects a significant shift in the perception and consumption of Korean cuisine, transitioning it from a relatively niche offering to a widely embraced and increasingly integral part of American food culture, indicative of a growing appetite for global flavors and a deeper appreciation for the diverse culinary landscape.
Key Characteristics of the Core trend:
Widespread Availability: Korean restaurants have increased significantly in number across the U.S., with a notable 10% rise in 2024 alone, making the cuisine more accessible to a broader population.
Mainstream Adoption of Key Ingredients and Dishes: Items like kimchi, Korean BBQ sauces, and Korean fried chicken have moved beyond specialty stores and restaurants into mainstream supermarkets and fast food chains, demonstrating a deeper integration into American diets.
Influence of Popular Culture: The global popularity of K-pop and K-beauty has played a crucial role in piquing American interest in Korean culture, naturally extending to its cuisine.
Fusion and Innovation: Korean chefs and restaurateurs are creatively blending Korean flavors with other culinary traditions, resulting in innovative and appealing fusion dishes that attract a wider audience.
Social Media Buzz: Trends like the gooey cheese pulls of Korean corn dogs on TikTok have captured widespread attention and driven curiosity and demand for Korean street food.
Market and Cultural Signals Supporting the Trend:
Growth in Korean Restaurant Numbers: The 10% increase in Korean restaurants in 2024, as reported by Circana data, is a strong indicator of the expanding market and increasing consumer demand.
Fast Food Chain Adoption: The approximately 15% increase in fast food chains offering Korean fried chicken and corn dogs signifies the mainstream appeal and commercial viability of Korean flavors.
Korean Products in Major Retailers: The availability of Korean corn dogs in Costco marks a significant step into the heart of American consumerism, indicating widespread acceptance.
Influence of K-Pop and K-Beauty: The article explicitly mentions the correlation between the popularity of Korean music and beauty trends and the growing interest in Korean food, highlighting the power of cultural synergy.
Expansion into Diverse U.S. Cities: The emergence of Korean-inspired fusion restaurants in cities like New Orleans and Detroit demonstrates the adaptability and growing traction of Korean cuisine across different regions and culinary landscapes within the U.S.
How the Trend Is Changing Consumer Behavior:
Increased Experimentation with Korean Flavors: American consumers are becoming more willing to try Korean dishes and incorporate Korean ingredients into their home cooking.
Seeking Out Korean Restaurants and Products: There is a growing demand for and active search for Korean dining experiences and Korean food products in grocery stores.
Influence of Social Media on Food Choices: Platforms like TikTok are playing a significant role in popularizing Korean street food and driving interest among younger consumers.
Adoption of Korean Condiments and Sauces: Kimchi and Korean BBQ sauces are becoming staple condiments in American households, indicating a deeper integration of Korean flavors into everyday meals.
Support for Korean Food Chains: The rapid expansion of chains like Two Hands Corn Dogs demonstrates a strong consumer following and willingness to support Korean-owned food businesses.
Implications Across the Ecosystem:
For Brands and CPGs: There is a significant opportunity to develop and market Korean-inspired products, including sauces, marinades, snacks, and ready-to-eat meals, to meet growing consumer demand.
For Retailers: Grocery stores and supermarkets should expand their offerings of Korean ingredients, sauces, and prepared foods to cater to the increasing popularity of home-cooked Korean meals and snacks.
For Consumers: Americans will have access to a wider variety of flavorful and diverse dining options, both in restaurants and through retail products, enhancing their culinary experiences.
Strategic Forecast:
Expect to see a continued increase in the number of Korean restaurants across the U.S., expanding into more cities and neighborhoods.
The trend of Korean-inspired fusion cuisine is likely to grow, with more innovative and regionally adapted dishes appearing on menus.
Major food manufacturers and retailers will likely expand their lines of Korean food products to capitalize on the sustained consumer interest.
The influence of Korean popular culture will continue to fuel the demand for Korean food and beverages.
Areas of innovation:
Korean Fusion Cuisine: More restaurants and food brands will explore inventive combinations of Korean flavors with other global culinary traditions, such as Korean-Creole or Korean-Mexican fusion.
Ready-to-Eat Korean Meal Kits: Expansion of convenient meal kits featuring authentic Korean recipes and pre-portioned ingredients for easy home cooking.
Korean-Inspired Snack Foods: Development of new and exciting snack products that incorporate popular Korean flavor profiles and ingredients.
Gourmet Korean Sauces and Condiments: Introduction of premium, artisanal Korean sauces and condiments for home chefs looking to elevate their cooking.
Korean Beverage Innovations: Exploration of new and traditional Korean beverages, such as rice wines and flavored teas, for the American market.
Final Thought: The Kimchi Conclusion: A Flavorful Future for Korean Food in America
The pervasive presence of Korean food across the United States in 2025 signifies more than just a passing trend; it represents a deep and flavorful integration of Korean culinary culture into the American palate. Driven by a compelling combination of unique and appealing flavors, the widespread influence of Korean popular culture, and the innovative spirit of chefs and food producers, the ascent of Korean cuisine in the U.S. showcases the ever-evolving nature of American food and the exciting possibilities that arise when global tastes converge. As more and more Americans embrace the joys of kimchi, bibimbap, and beyond, the future of Korean food in the U.S. looks incredibly bright and deliciously diverse.
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