French food brands target health-conscious Koreans at Seoul showcase

French food and beverage brands convened in Seoul to entice health-conscious Korean consumers, with 19 companies participating in Business France's Food Experience 2026 exhibition. Held at the French ambassador's residence and the Kim Chung-up Pavilion, this is the fifth annual event connecting French firms with Korean importers, distributors, and food service professionals.

The show, which aligns with the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, showcased a diverse array of products, from those already present in the Korean market to brands yet to make their debut.

A notable emphasis this year was placed on companies originating from Occitania, a major food-producing region in southern France that encompasses diverse landscapes, from the Mediterranean coast to the Pyrenees and inland agricultural areas. Among the participating brands was Gopy, a beverage company that exhibited ginger drinks as a gentler alternative to Korea's traditional ginger. Anisa Maleck, Gopy's export manager, commented on the growing trend in France of ginger drinks being considered a fashion statement.