Source: Halal Korea

JAKARTA – South Korea is positioning itself as a key player in the rapidly expanding global halal market, with plans to host a comprehensive trade exhibition this summer that aims to bridge cultural understanding and commercial opportunity.

The K-Halal Festa: A Gateway to Ethical Commerce

Scheduled for August 29-31, 2025, at COEX Magok in Seoul, the Korea Halal Trade Economic Expo represents more than a typical business gathering. The event embodies South Korea’s strategic vision to tap into the multi-trillion-dollar halal economy while fostering cross-cultural connections and ethical business practices.

The halal market extends far beyond food products, encompassing cosmetics, fashion, travel services, and financial products that adhere to Islamic principles of permissibility and ethical production. This comprehensive approach reflects the growing global demand for products that align with values of cleanliness, fairness, and social responsibility.

Exhibition Highlights and Industry Focus

The three-day expo will feature over 150 exhibitors across four key sectors:

Food and Beverage Sector: More than 70 exhibitors will showcase halal-certified ingredients, specialty foods, and gourmet products that meet rigorous international standards for preparation and sourcing.

Beauty and Personal Care: Approximately 35 companies will present halal-certified Korean beauty products, highlighting the intersection of K-beauty innovation with ethical production standards that prohibit animal testing and ensure ingredient transparency.

Fashion and Lifestyle: Thirty exhibitors will display modest fashion collections, including contemporary hijab designs and globally-inspired modest wear that combines style with cultural sensitivity.

Tourism and Hospitality: Fifteen exhibitors will present Muslim-friendly travel services, accommodations, and tour packages designed to serve the growing segment of halal-conscious travelers.

Strategic Economic Objectives

The expo serves South Korea’s broader economic diversification strategy, particularly supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) seeking halal certification and access to international markets. The initiative is part of an ambitious national goal to attract 5 million Muslim tourists to Korea by 2026, with projected economic benefits of ₩10 trillion in added value.

This market expansion effort enjoys backing from the Korean government and benefits from strategic partnerships with international organizations including Malaysia’s Perdasama, the Japan Halal Foundation, the ASEAN Muslim Chamber of Commerce, and the World Halal Council.

Building Bridges Through Commerce

The expo targets a diverse audience ranging from Korean businesses exploring halal certification to Muslim consumers seeking reliable products and services. Additionally, the event welcomes non-Muslim visitors interested in learning about halal lifestyle principles and ethical consumption practices.

The exhibition will feature expert panel discussions, certification guidance sessions, and case studies from successful halal market entries in countries like Japan and Thailand. These educational components aim to provide practical insights for businesses considering halal market expansion.

A Vision for Inclusive Growth

By hosting this comprehensive trade expo, South Korea demonstrates its commitment to inclusive economic growth that respects cultural diversity while pursuing commercial opportunity. The event represents a convergence of traditional values with modern innovation, positioning ethical business practices as a foundation for sustainable international commerce.

The Korea Halal Trade Economic Expo stands as a testament to the potential for cultural understanding and economic cooperation in an increasingly interconnected world, where ethical considerations and commercial success can work hand in hand.

Original article:

twk.co.kr. (n.d.). Malaysia’s Abang J Aims to Enter Mindanao’s Growing Halal Food Market. Retrieved July 7, 2025, from https://www.twk.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=271