The Soaring Prices of Gim: South Korea's Beloved Snack Faces Affordability Crisis
Black, crispy, and often flat and square, dried seaweed known locally as gim is a beloved staple found on dining tables across South Korea. Yet, as its global popularity surges, particularly in light of K-pop and Korean cuisine trends, locals are growing increasingly concerned about the rising prices of this once-affordable snack.
Lee Hyang-ran, a seasoned vendor who has sold gim for 47 years, recalls a time when Western countries viewed the seaweed as an oddity. I never thought I'd be selling gim to them. But now, they all come here and buy it, she shares from her stall in central Seoul.
South Korea stands as the world's largest producer and exporter of gim, catering to markets across Asia, North America, and Europe. Exports reached an astonishing record of $1.13 billion in 2025, according to the Korea Maritime Institute, marking a consistent rise in demand.
Historically costing just about 100 won (approximately $0.06) per sheet, the price has driven up to over 150 won recently—an unheard-of leap. Premium varieties are now priced at about 350 won. These increases are alarming, especially for an item that is supposed to be affordable, laments Lee.
Many locals, like Kim Jaela, who typically buys gim in bulk, are now reassessing their purchasing decisions as the prices soar. Oh my, it really did get more expensive by a few dollars! she remarks, noting her hesitation to restock if costs do not stabilize.
The surge in gim prices is attributed to broader economic challenges—including inflation and rising labor costs—alongside a spike in international consumption.
The South Korean government and various food companies are seeking solutions to manage these increasing costs, with promises to monitor the situation closely. Some manufacturers are contemplating the expansion of production facilities to meet the heightened global demand.
As the Seoul markets brim with tourists, the local vendors like Lee are enjoying the brisk sales, particularly of the products used for making gimbap, a popular Korean rice roll containing seaweed.
Gim has been selling like hot cakes... I'm glad Korean gim is getting popular, Lee concludes, highlighting the inevitable struggles and opportunities faced by products caught in the complex web of globalization.
