OPPORTUNITIES FOR SWEDISH FOOD AND BEVERAGE COMPANIES IN SOUTH KOREA 
 
WHAT 

As one of Asia’s most vibrant consumer markets and a key soft power hub, South Korea offers significant opportunities for Swedish food and beverage companies, particularly amid rising demand for healthy and unique products.

Already in 2022, 51% of Koreans cited “Health” as the most important factor in food purchasing decisions, up sharply from 29% in 2020. Reflecting this shift, Korea’s sugar-free food and beverage market recorded 30% CAGR from 2021-2023 and continues to see double-digit growth. In parallel, Swedish products have been gaining increasing awareness in the Korean market, supported by the “Swedish jelly” trend that rose in 2024.

Sweden’s food and beverage exports to South Korea have grown steadily at a 12% CAGR from 2010-2024. As of January 2026, the market features around 20 Swedish food and beverage brands, serving both B2B and B2C segments.

Sweden also enjoys a strong and positive brand image in South Korea, built through long-standing historic engagements and the presence of established companies and brands across industries. The favourable country image enhances credibility with both business partners and consumers, fostering trust and broader market acceptance. 

 

HOW 

Since the launch of the Try Swedish programme in South Korea in 2018, South Korea has been selected as one of the Focus Markets, and a designated local team have been supporting Swedish companies entering the market, including the market entry support and the sharing of latest market insights.

The Food Business Matchmaking Day 2026 in South Korea is scheduled to take place in Seoul in October 2026. This two-day event is designed for Swedish food and beverage companies that are new to the Korean market; however, existing companies may also join parts of the delegation programme.

Participants will engage in in-depth business meetings with carefully selected partners, and a networking reception with leading Korean buyers, importers, and distributors, complemented by targeted market intelligence activities:

  • Walk-through of the Korean food and beverage trends and a local competitor product tasting session.
  • Visits to Korea’s leading food companies and briefings per site.
  • Business matchmaking day and sample tastings with potential partners. Business meetings will be pre-arranged.
  • Networking reception.

 

CONTACT US 

For more information, contact Soyeon Kang at Soyeon.kang@business-sweden.se