South Korea: Grain and Feed Annual

Building on a record year in calendar year (CY) 2025, U.S. corn exports to the Republic of Korea (ROK) will remain strong into MY 2026/27 due to competitive prices. As of March 2026, U.S. corn purchase commitments are running at double last year's level. Per capita rice consumption continues to decline in favor of wheat-based foods and meat, putting downward pressure on production. The ROK resumed U.S. table rice auctions on March 6, 2026, following a suspension that began in November 2023. However, under the current weekly sales plan, total U.S. table rice sales will not keep pace with accumulating import volumes. The ROK's instant noodle (ramyeon) exports -- made from imported U.S. and Australian wheat -- posted another record year in CY 2025 with over $1.5 billion in sales. The compound feed market remains mature and generally stable in volume, but disease-driven reductions in poultry and swine herds are adding volatility in 2026.