Types of seaweed preferred by Koreans and popular brands

Seasoned seaweed (also known as dosirak seaweed) is the most popular type of seaweed among Koreans, and various traditional brands enjoy consistent popularity. Seaweed is widely consumed as a side dish in Korea and is a highly sought-after export item worldwide.

1. Types and characteristics of seaweed preferred by Koreans

1-1) Jomi Gim(Seasoned seaweed or lunchbox seaweed) : This is the most popular and popular form. Seasoned with oil (sesame oil or olive oil, etc.) and salt, it is popular as a side dish or snack.

1-2) Jaerae Gim(Traditional seaweed) : It is thinner and has a softer texture than regular seaweed for kimbap, and has a unique flavor.

1-3) Dolgim(Stone Laver Seafeed) : It has a thicker and rougher texture than traditional laver, and the more you chew it, the deeper the flavor becomes. It's great for making pickled vegetables or dipping in soy sauce.

1-4) Gopchang Gim(Intestines Seafeed) : This is made using the Itbadi Dolgim, and its name comes from its curly shape after harvest, resembling gopchang. It is rare as it is only harvested for a short period, from late October to mid-November, and its unique flavor and sweetness have recently gained popularity.

1-5) Parae Gim(Green Laver) : It has a green tint due to the laver being mixed in, and has a unique aroma and taste.

2. Popular brands

While rankings may vary based on sales figures or consumer research at any given time, the following are major brands that have been beloved by Korean consumers for a long time:

2-1) Dongwon Yangban Gim : This is a representative brand that has focused on quality control, including being the first in Korea to introduce a raw material appraiser system.

2-2) Gwangcheon Gim : This product is based on the reputation of the Gwangcheon region in South Chungcheong Province and records high sales through various distribution channels.

2-3) CJ CheilJedang's Haet Basak Gim(Crispy Seaweed) : This is a large company brand that has consistently maintained high popularity.

2-4) Others : Seonggyeong Gim, Somunnan Sambuja Gim, Pulmuone Gim: These are also major brands that have been trusted by consumers for a long time.

3. Popularity factors and latest trends

Koreans have a very high preference for seaweed, with 94% of housewives responding that they like it. Recently, with the growing interest in health, seaweed is becoming more popular as it is low in calories and rich in nutrients.

Kimchi snack products are also gaining popularity, and are a leading K-food exported not only domestically but also to over 100 countries around the world. Kim snacks come in a variety of flavors, from basic seasoned seaweed to brown rice, almonds, dried seaweed, and seaweed wrappers. They also come in flavors like original, cheese, kimchi, mayonnaise, sweet corn, and butter squid. The basic flavor is roasted seaweed, making it crispy , and adding nuts or grains for a richer flavor and texture. Kim snacks come in a variety of flavors, from basic seasoned seaweed to brown rice, almonds, dried seaweed, and seaweed wrappers. They also come in flavors like original, cheese, kimchi, mayonnaise, sweet corn, and butter squid. The basic flavor is roasted seaweed, making it crispy, and adding nuts or grains for a richer flavor and texture.