Introduction – South Korea’s Frozen Chicken Market in Statistical Focus
When it comes to frozen chicken, South Korea isn’t just a consumer—it’s a key player in the global export market. Over the past few years, South Korea has carved out its niche by supplying high-quality poultry products to countries across Asia and beyond. With exports reaching tens of thousands of metric tons annually, the nation has become a trusted sourcing destination for frozen chicken, especially in segments like heat-treated and value-added poultry.
But here’s the thing—navigating this market isn’t as simple as picking a supplier off a list. With global competition, seasonal price swings, and ever-changing trade dynamics, businesses need more than just a name—they need hard data. That’s where platforms like Freshdi come in, offering RFQ (Request for Quotation) trends, supplier verification, and real-time market insights to help buyers make smart, risk-mitigated sourcing decisions.
So, if you’re looking to tap into South Korea’s frozen chicken exports, this guide will walk you through the country’s market metrics, supplier rankings, and what to expect in the months ahead.
Deep Dive – Key Production, Export Statistics & Market Signals
Let’s talk numbers. In 2024, South Korea’s frozen chicken exports hit 57,000 metric tons—an 11% increase over the previous year. Why the boost? A surge in local chicken supply pushed down domestic prices, making exports more competitive.
However, not all segments saw growth. Heat-treated processed chicken exports dropped by 5%, largely due to decreased hybrid chicken slaughter volumes. Still, demand for Korean poultry products remains strong overseas, especially in Vietnam and the U.S.
On Freshdi, the number of RFQs for frozen chicken from South Korean suppliers rose steadily throughout 2025. This aligns with broader trade patterns and confirms that global buyers are increasingly looking to Korea for reliable frozen poultry sources.
Top 3 Verified Frozen Chicken Suppliers in South Korea – Proven Export Performers
After analyzing export volumes, certifications, buyer ratings, and RFQ activity on Freshdi, three suppliers clearly stand out for Q4 2025:
1. Aone Co., Ltd.
Aone Co., Ltd. has consistently ranked among South Korea’s top chicken exporters. Known for its high production standards and rigorous quality control, Aone supplies a wide range of frozen chicken cuts. Their facilities meet global safety standards, making them a favorite among importers in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.
Why they stand out:
– Certified for HACCP, ISO, and Halal processing
– High-volume RFQ responder on Freshdi
– Strong buyer reviews citing timely delivery and consistent quality
2. Lf Food Co., Ltd.
Lf Food Co., Ltd. has made a name for itself with premium frozen chicken products tailored to international tastes. Their processed and marinated options are especially popular in foodservice sectors.
Why they stand out:
– Export footprint in Vietnam, the U.S., and China
– Known for product innovation and value-added offerings
– Frequently featured in Freshdi’s “Top Supplier” rankings
3. Samkwang Fisheries
While their name might suggest a seafood focus, Samkwang Fisheries has diversified into poultry with great success. Their frozen chicken line is gaining traction, particularly in countries seeking competitively priced yet high-standard poultry.
Why they stand out:
– Diversified exporter with strong logistics capabilities
– Fast-growing RFQ volume on Freshdi
– Competitive pricing backed by stable production
Dynamic Ranking Note
Keep in mind that supplier rankings can vary monthly or quarterly. Platforms like Freshdi regularly update “Top Supplier” lists based on real-time buyer activity, export fulfillment rates, and product quality feedback. So, always check the latest rankings before making a deal.
Market Navigation – Statistical Trends, Value Dynamics & Export Dynamics
Export Trends and Destination Highlights
- In the first half of 2025, exports to Vietnam reached USD 36.1 million—a 7.6% year-over-year growth.
- U.S. imports of heat-processed chicken surged 15.1% to USD 3.9 million, thanks to the rising popularity of Korean dishes like “samgyetang.”
These figures aren’t just statistics—they’re indicators of trust. Countries like Vietnam and the U.S. are not easy markets to crack without quality and consistency.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
Here’s where things get tricky. Frozen chicken prices in South Korea are highly sensitive to external shocks. Case in point: In May 2025, a bird flu outbreak in Brazil disrupted supply chains. South Korea, which imports a chunk of its chicken from Brazil, had to impose a temporary ban. The result? Boneless chicken leg prices spiked from ₩4,200/kg to ₩7,000/kg almost overnight.
So, if you’re sourcing frozen chicken, timing matters. Historical price data from Freshdi can help you anticipate these swings and plan purchases accordingly.
Forecast for 2026 and Beyond
Let’s peek into the future:
- Production is expected to grow by 0.5% in 2026 despite breeder stock constraints.
- Consumption is forecasted to rise by 2%, hitting 1.1 million metric tons—fueled by lower prices and product diversity.
- Imports are projected to grow by 9%, particularly from HPAI-free zones in Brazil, following the reintroduction of regionalized import policies.
- Exports are likely to hold steady at around 65,000 metric tons, with continued demand from Vietnam and expanding interest in heat-treated items.
The bottom line? South Korea’s frozen chicken industry is stable with pockets of high growth, especially in niche and value-added segments.
Conclusion – Leveraging Data for Optimized Supply Chains
South Korea is more than just a rising star in the frozen chicken game—it’s a strategic trade partner for global importers seeking quality, compliance, and reliability. With exports topping 57,000 metric tons and growing interest from major markets, this country’s poultry sector offers solid sourcing opportunities.
But remember, it’s not about picking the cheapest supplier. It’s about choosing partners who can deliver consistently, adapt to regulations, and meet your market’s demand. Platforms like Freshdi make this process easier by providing:
- Verified supplier directories
- Trade volume insights
- RFQ trends
- Past performance metrics
So whether you’re a first-time importer or a seasoned distributor, leveraging data is your best bet for long-term success.
Checklist for Buyers – Frozen Chicken Sourcing from South Korea
✅ Verify supplier certifications (HACCP, ISO, Halal)
✅ Monitor RFQ activity and buyer reviews on Freshdi
✅ Factor in seasonal price trends before placing large orders
✅ Stay updated on trade disruptions (like disease outbreaks)
✅ Shortlist suppliers with proven export history and logistics stability
Looking Ahead: The Future of Korean Poultry Exports
The Korean frozen chicken industry isn’t slowing down. With rising global demand, improved production capabilities, and diversified product lines, 2026 may bring:
- More value-added chicken products (marinated, ready-to-eat)
- Expansion into new markets beyond Vietnam and the U.S.
- Greater adoption of digital trade platforms like Freshdi for end-to-end sourcing
How Freshdi Empowers Buyers
Freshdi is more than just a B2B marketplace. It’s your data-driven partner in international sourcing. Here’s how it helps:
- Market Intelligence: Get real-time updates on export trends, pricing dynamics, and demand shifts.
- Supplier Verification: Only verified suppliers with export track records are listed.
- RFQ Tools: Simplify your procurement with direct, tracked RFQ submissions.
- Trade Statistics: Access historical shipment data to predict future performance.
When the stakes are high—like sourcing perishable goods across borders—you need more than luck. You need Freshdi.
FAQs
1. What makes South Korean frozen chicken popular in global markets?
South Korea is known for high food safety standards, consistent quality, and a growing range of value-added poultry products that appeal across cultures.
2. How do I verify a frozen chicken supplier from South Korea?
Use platforms like Freshdi to check for certifications, buyer reviews, and export history. Always request documentation before finalizing deals.
3. Are there seasonal trends in frozen chicken prices from South Korea?
Yes. Prices can spike due to disease outbreaks, supply shortages, or trade disruptions. Freshdi provides historical price trends to help you plan better.
4. Which countries are the biggest importers of South Korean chicken?
Vietnam and the U.S. are currently top importers, with growing interest from Indonesia, India, and other Southeast Asian nations.
5. Can small businesses source from listed suppliers on Freshdi?
Absolutely. Freshdi caters to businesses of all sizes, offering flexible RFQ options and supplier matchmaking for both bulk and trial orders.
