{"content_id":"cijevxjm24","slug":"baechu-kimchi-domestic-imported-origin-labeling","locale":"en","schema_type":"Article","category":"knowledge_base","category_name":"Knowledge Base","title":"Cabbage Kimchi Labeling: Domestic and Imported Products","summary":"Even kimchi made in Korea may contain ingredients with different origins. Distinguish between labeling rules for packaged kimchi and pickled products and those for restaurants, and compare online product descriptions with the actual packaging.","sponsorship_disclosure":null,"affiliate_disclosure":null,"commerce_disclosure":null,"author":{"name":"Injoys Editorial Team","url":"https://injoys.com/ko/about"},"key_points":["A manufacturer's address in Korea does not mean the ingredients are from Korea.","For kimchi and pickled products processed in Korea, salt is also subject to country-of-origin labeling.","Restaurants serving kimchi prepared in Korea must label the origins of the cabbage and chili powder used.","For imported ready-made kimchi, restaurants must label the country of origin listed on the import declaration certificate.","If you suspect missing or false labeling, you can report it to the National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service's illegal distribution reporting center at 1588-8112."],"content_markdown":"Napa cabbage kimchi made domestically does not necessarily contain only domestic ingredients. For packaged products, check the labeling for each ingredient. Restaurants label the origins of napa cabbage and red pepper powder separately. Imported finished products are subject to separate labeling standards.\n\nThe inspection schedule is based on the National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service's announcement on November 2, 2026.\n\n## The Difference Between Origin and Place of Manufacture\n\nOrigin means the country, region, or other location where agricultural or fishery products were produced or harvested. It is different from the seller's address or the place from which the goods were shipped. An exporting country that merely handled a transaction is also distinct from the place of origin.\n\n\u003e It means the country, region, or waters where agricultural or fishery products were produced, harvested, or caught.\n\nThis is the definition in the National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service's “Country-of-Origin Labeling Management.” Specific labeling standards are also available in the [National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service's country-of-origin labeling guide](https://www.naqs.go.kr/hp/contents/contentsTab.do?menuId=MN30559).\n\nNapa cabbage kimchi is made by adding seasonings to salted napa cabbage or mixing them together. Whether the cabbage is left whole or cut before making kimchi is not information about its origin. The product name or manufacturer's location alone cannot establish where the ingredients came from.\n\n| Information found on the label | What it tells you | What to check separately |\n|---|---|---|\n| Address of a domestic manufacturer | The manufacturer's location | Origins of ingredients such as napa cabbage and red pepper powder |\n| Domestically grown napa cabbage | The origin of the napa cabbage | Origins of other seasonings and salt |\n| Domestic shipping | Information about the shipping location | Origins of the product and its ingredients |\n| Seller in a particular region | The seller's location | Whether the ingredients were produced in that region |\n\n## What Must Be Labeled on Packaged Kimchi and Pickled Products\n\nSeparate ingredient labeling standards apply to domestically processed kimchi and pickled products. The ingredient-ranking rules for general processed foods should not be applied on their own. What you need to check also depends on whether red pepper powder is used.\n\n| Type of domestically processed product | Ingredients whose origins must be labeled | How to read the label |\n|---|---|---|\n| Kimchi containing red pepper powder | The top 2 ingredients by proportion, excluding red pepper powder and salt, plus red pepper powder and salt | Do not judge the origins of all ingredients from the napa cabbage label alone |\n| Kimchi without red pepper powder | The top 2 ingredients by proportion, excluding salt, plus salt | Salt must be checked even when red pepper powder is not used |\n| Pickled products | The top 2 ingredients by proportion, excluding salt, plus salt | Distinguish the origin of the pickled vegetables from that of the salt |\n\nPickled products have an exception based on ingredient proportions. It applies when one of the ingredients other than salt accounts for at least 98% of the mixture. In that case, the origins of that ingredient and the salt are labeled. Details are provided in the National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service's [“Questions and Answers on Country-of-Origin Labeling for Agricultural and Food Products”](https://www.naqs.go.kr/fileManage/download.do?fileCode=file\u0026fileName=2019%EB%85%84+%EB%86%8D%EC%8B%9D%ED%92%88+%EC%9B%90%EC%82%B0%EC%A7%80+%ED%91%9C%EC%8B%9C%EC%A0%9C+%EC%A7%88%EC%9D%98%EC%9D%91%EB%8B%B5%EC%A7%91+%EC%9D%B8%EC%87%84%EC%8B%9C%EC%95%88.pdf).\n\n### What to Check About the Origin of Salted Napa Cabbage\n\nThe key is to check the napa cabbage and salt separately. A statement that the cabbage is domestically grown does not tell you where the salt came from. Even if the product name includes a region, compare it with the ingredient labeling.\n\n### What to Check About the Origin of Red Pepper Powder\n\nWhen reading red pepper powder labels, distinguish the manufacturer's address from the origin of the ingredients. Being sold by a domestic company does not mean the ingredients are domestic. If the online description is unclear, check the ingredient and origin labeling on the package.\n\n### What to Check About the Origin of Salt in Kimchi\n\nSalt in domestically processed kimchi is subject to separate origin labeling that should be checked. This standard also applies to kimchi made without red pepper powder. Do not assume that the salt has the same origin as the napa cabbage simply because the cabbage's origin is labeled.\n\n## Comparing Restaurant Labeling and Imported Finished Products\n\nRestaurant origin labeling for napa cabbage kimchi focuses on napa cabbage and red pepper powder. For kimchi prepared domestically, the origins of these two ingredients are listed separately. The labeling method differs for finished products made abroad and imported.\n\n| When served at a restaurant | Labeling example | Interpretation |\n|---|---|---|\n| Kimchi made with domestic napa cabbage and domestic red pepper powder | Napa cabbage kimchi, napa cabbage: domestic, red pepper powder: domestic | Both labeled ingredients are domestic |\n| Kimchi made with domestic napa cabbage and Chinese red pepper powder | Napa cabbage kimchi, napa cabbage: domestic, red pepper powder: China | The cabbage and seasoning have different origins |\n| Finished kimchi imported from China | Napa cabbage kimchi: China | The finished product's origin as stated on the import declaration certificate is labeled |\n| Kimchi prepared domestically without red pepper powder | Napa cabbage kimchi, napa cabbage: domestic | The origin of the napa cabbage actually used is labeled |\n\nThe table presents examples from the official guidance in an easy-to-read format. The country name on an imported finished product is not a list of the origins of all its ingredients. Relevant examples are available in the [restaurant section of “Questions and Answers on Country-of-Origin Labeling for Agricultural and Food Products”](https://fsi.seoul.go.kr/upload/download/2023_Produce_country_of_origin-QNA.pdf).\n\n## Common Mistakes and How to Interpret Labels\n\nThe most common misunderstanding is to apply the labeling of some ingredients to the entire product. A statement that domestic napa cabbage was used is information about the cabbage. The origins of red pepper powder and salt must each be checked separately.\n\n| Common interpretation | Correct interpretation |\n|---|---|\n| It was made domestically, so all the ingredients must be domestic | The place of manufacture and ingredient origins must be distinguished |\n| If the napa cabbage is domestic, the red pepper powder must be domestic too | The labeling for each ingredient must be read separately |\n| Restaurant signs need the same information as packaged products | Labeling requirements differ for restaurants and domestically processed products |\n| The country name on imported kimchi is the country that produced every ingredient | It indicates the origin of the imported finished product |\n| If a company in a famous producing region sells it, the produce must come from that region | The seller's location and the ingredients' place of production must be distinguished |\n\nAvoid concluding that a labeling violation has occurred based on appearance alone. Impressions of the color or the shape of the cabbage cannot replace transaction records. Suspected issues are best reported with the labeling information.\n\n## When the Online Description Differs From the Delivered Packaging\n\nComparing online labeling with the actual packaging can reveal inconsistent descriptions. Online sales are also subject to country-of-origin labeling requirements. The labeling obligation also applies to food sold through delivery apps. Where labels must appear is explained in the [National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service's leaflet on online sales](https://www.naqs.go.kr/fileManage/download.do?fileCode=file\u0026fileName=%ED%86%B5%EC%8B%A0%ED%8C%90%EB%A7%A4%28%EB%B0%B0%EB%8B%AC%EC%95%B1%29+%EC%9B%90%EC%82%B0%EC%A7%80+%ED%91%9C%EC%8B%9C+%EC%95%88%EB%82%B4+%EB%A6%AC%ED%94%8C%EB%A6%BF.pdf).\n\nCompare the labeling in the following order.\n\n1. Check the product you ordered and the options you selected.\n2. Save the origin information shown on the product details page.\n3. Check the product name and ingredient-specific labeling on the delivered packaging.\n4. If the labeling for the same product differs, ask the seller for an explanation.\n5. If you suspect missing or false labeling, report it to the National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service.\n\nScreenshots and photographs of the packaging help compare differing descriptions. Keeping the order details as well makes it easier to identify the product purchased. These are suggestions to help with verification, not a list of documents required to file a report.\n\n## 2026 Kimchi-Making Season Inspection Period and Reporting Contact\n\nThe National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service's intensive inspection period is **November 4 to December 4, 2026**. Products covered include kimchi, salted napa cabbage, red pepper powder, garlic, and ginger. Inspections cover manufacturers, sellers, online retailers, and general restaurants, among others.\n\nThe inspections address the practice of falsely presenting foreign products as domestic. They also cover labeling agricultural products from other domestic regions as products from well-known producing regions. Online shopping malls and online sales intermediary sites are also monitored.\n\nMissing or suspected false labeling can be reported by calling 1588-8112. This is the number for the National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service's Fraudulent Distribution Reporting Center. The schedule and reporting information are specified in the [National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service's November 2, 2026 press release](https://www.mafra.go.kr/bbs/home/792/582112/artclView.do).\n\n## Frequently Asked Questions\n\n### Do “domestic” and “domestically produced” mean different things?\n\nBoth expressions can be used to label the origin of domestic agricultural products. The difference in wording does not distinguish quality grades. Interpretation depends on which ingredient the label refers to.\n\n### Can kimchi made by a domestic company contain imported ingredients?\n\nYes. Domestic manufacture and domestic ingredient origin are separate matters. You need to check the labeling for each ingredient to tell the difference.\n\n### Can white kimchi omit red pepper powder labeling?\n\nIf red pepper powder was not used, there is no such ingredient to label. Domestically processed kimchi must still follow the salt labeling standards in this case. At restaurants, check the origin of the napa cabbage used.\n\n### Is it a violation if salt is not listed on a restaurant's sign?\n\nThe absence of salt alone does not establish a violation. Restaurant kimchi labeling covers napa cabbage and any red pepper powder used. This must be distinguished from the ingredient labeling standards for packaged kimchi.\n\n### Is kimchi used in kimchi stew or fried rice also subject to labeling?\n\nNapa cabbage kimchi is subject to restaurant country-of-origin labeling regardless of how it is prepared. The requirement is not limited to kimchi served as a side dish. The labeling obligation also applies to food sold through delivery apps.\n\n### Does the labeling obligation end when the intensive inspections end?\n\nThe end of the intensive inspections does not end the country-of-origin labeling obligation. December 4 is the final day of this inspection schedule. The country-of-origin labeling system continues to apply separately.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eNapa cabbage kimchi made domestically does not necessarily contain only domestic ingredients. For packaged products, check the labeling for each ingredient. Restaurants label the origins of napa cabbage and red pepper powder separately. Imported finished products are subject to separate labeling standards.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe inspection schedule is based on the National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service's announcement on November 2, 2026.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#the-difference-between-origin-and-place-of-manufacture\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"the-difference-between-origin-and-place-of-manufacture\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eThe Difference Between Origin and Place of Manufacture\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrigin means the country, region, or other location where agricultural or fishery products were produced or harvested. It is different from the seller's address or the place from which the goods were shipped. An exporting country that merely handled a transaction is also distinct from the place of origin.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt means the country, region, or waters where agricultural or fishery products were produced, harvested, or caught.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is the definition in the National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service's “Country-of-Origin Labeling Management.” Specific labeling standards are also available in the \u003ca href=\"https://www.naqs.go.kr/hp/contents/contentsTab.do?menuId=MN30559\"\u003eNational Agricultural Products Quality Management Service's country-of-origin labeling guide\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNapa cabbage kimchi is made by adding seasonings to salted napa cabbage or mixing them together. Whether the cabbage is left whole or cut before making kimchi is not information about its origin. The product name or manufacturer's location alone cannot establish where the ingredients came from.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eInformation found on the label\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat it tells you\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat to check separately\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Information found on the label\"\u003eAddress of a domestic manufacturer\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What it tells you\"\u003eThe manufacturer's location\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check separately\"\u003eOrigins of ingredients such as napa cabbage and red pepper powder\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Information found on the label\"\u003eDomestically grown napa cabbage\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What it tells you\"\u003eThe origin of the napa cabbage\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check separately\"\u003eOrigins of other seasonings and salt\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Information found on the label\"\u003eDomestic shipping\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What it tells you\"\u003eInformation about the shipping location\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check separately\"\u003eOrigins of the product and its ingredients\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Information found on the label\"\u003eSeller in a particular region\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What it tells you\"\u003eThe seller's location\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check separately\"\u003eWhether the ingredients were produced in that region\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#what-must-be-labeled-on-packaged-kimchi-and-pickled-products\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"what-must-be-labeled-on-packaged-kimchi-and-pickled-products\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhat Must Be Labeled on Packaged Kimchi and Pickled Products\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeparate ingredient labeling standards apply to domestically processed kimchi and pickled products. The ingredient-ranking rules for general processed foods should not be applied on their own. What you need to check also depends on whether red pepper powder is used.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eType of domestically processed product\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eIngredients whose origins must be labeled\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHow to read the label\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Type of domestically processed product\"\u003eKimchi containing red pepper powder\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Ingredients whose origins must be labeled\"\u003eThe top 2 ingredients by proportion, excluding red pepper powder and salt, plus red pepper powder and salt\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"How to read the label\"\u003eDo not judge the origins of all ingredients from the napa cabbage label alone\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Type of domestically processed product\"\u003eKimchi without red pepper powder\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Ingredients whose origins must be labeled\"\u003eThe top 2 ingredients by proportion, excluding salt, plus salt\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"How to read the label\"\u003eSalt must be checked even when red pepper powder is not used\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Type of domestically processed product\"\u003ePickled products\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Ingredients whose origins must be labeled\"\u003eThe top 2 ingredients by proportion, excluding salt, plus salt\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"How to read the label\"\u003eDistinguish the origin of the pickled vegetables from that of the salt\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePickled products have an exception based on ingredient proportions. It applies when one of the ingredients other than salt accounts for at least 98% of the mixture. In that case, the origins of that ingredient and the salt are labeled. Details are provided in the National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service's \u003ca href=\"https://www.naqs.go.kr/fileManage/download.do?fileCode=file\u0026amp;fileName=2019%EB%85%84+%EB%86%8D%EC%8B%9D%ED%92%88+%EC%9B%90%EC%82%B0%EC%A7%80+%ED%91%9C%EC%8B%9C%EC%A0%9C+%EC%A7%88%EC%9D%98%EC%9D%91%EB%8B%B5%EC%A7%91+%EC%9D%B8%EC%87%84%EC%8B%9C%EC%95%88.pdf\"\u003e“Questions and Answers on Country-of-Origin Labeling for Agricultural and Food Products”\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#what-to-check-about-the-origin-of-salted-napa-cabbage\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"what-to-check-about-the-origin-of-salted-napa-cabbage\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhat to Check About the Origin of Salted Napa Cabbage\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe key is to check the napa cabbage and salt separately. A statement that the cabbage is domestically grown does not tell you where the salt came from. Even if the product name includes a region, compare it with the ingredient labeling.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#what-to-check-about-the-origin-of-red-pepper-powder\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"what-to-check-about-the-origin-of-red-pepper-powder\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhat to Check About the Origin of Red Pepper Powder\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen reading red pepper powder labels, distinguish the manufacturer's address from the origin of the ingredients. Being sold by a domestic company does not mean the ingredients are domestic. If the online description is unclear, check the ingredient and origin labeling on the package.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#what-to-check-about-the-origin-of-salt-in-kimchi\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"what-to-check-about-the-origin-of-salt-in-kimchi\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhat to Check About the Origin of Salt in Kimchi\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSalt in domestically processed kimchi is subject to separate origin labeling that should be checked. This standard also applies to kimchi made without red pepper powder. Do not assume that the salt has the same origin as the napa cabbage simply because the cabbage's origin is labeled.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#comparing-restaurant-labeling-and-imported-finished-products\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"comparing-restaurant-labeling-and-imported-finished-products\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eComparing Restaurant Labeling and Imported Finished Products\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRestaurant origin labeling for napa cabbage kimchi focuses on napa cabbage and red pepper powder. For kimchi prepared domestically, the origins of these two ingredients are listed separately. The labeling method differs for finished products made abroad and imported.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhen served at a restaurant\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eLabeling example\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eInterpretation\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"When served at a restaurant\"\u003eKimchi made with domestic napa cabbage and domestic red pepper powder\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Labeling example\"\u003eNapa cabbage kimchi, napa cabbage: domestic, red pepper powder: domestic\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Interpretation\"\u003eBoth labeled ingredients are domestic\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"When served at a restaurant\"\u003eKimchi made with domestic napa cabbage and Chinese red pepper powder\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Labeling example\"\u003eNapa cabbage kimchi, napa cabbage: domestic, red pepper powder: China\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Interpretation\"\u003eThe cabbage and seasoning have different origins\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"When served at a restaurant\"\u003eFinished kimchi imported from China\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Labeling example\"\u003eNapa cabbage kimchi: China\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Interpretation\"\u003eThe finished product's origin as stated on the import declaration certificate is labeled\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"When served at a restaurant\"\u003eKimchi prepared domestically without red pepper powder\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Labeling example\"\u003eNapa cabbage kimchi, napa cabbage: domestic\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Interpretation\"\u003eThe origin of the napa cabbage actually used is labeled\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe table presents examples from the official guidance in an easy-to-read format. The country name on an imported finished product is not a list of the origins of all its ingredients. Relevant examples are available in the \u003ca href=\"https://fsi.seoul.go.kr/upload/download/2023_Produce_country_of_origin-QNA.pdf\"\u003erestaurant section of “Questions and Answers on Country-of-Origin Labeling for Agricultural and Food Products”\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#common-mistakes-and-how-to-interpret-labels\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"common-mistakes-and-how-to-interpret-labels\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eCommon Mistakes and How to Interpret Labels\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe most common misunderstanding is to apply the labeling of some ingredients to the entire product. A statement that domestic napa cabbage was used is information about the cabbage. The origins of red pepper powder and salt must each be checked separately.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCommon interpretation\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCorrect interpretation\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Common interpretation\"\u003eIt was made domestically, so all the ingredients must be domestic\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Correct interpretation\"\u003eThe place of manufacture and ingredient origins must be distinguished\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Common interpretation\"\u003eIf the napa cabbage is domestic, the red pepper powder must be domestic too\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Correct interpretation\"\u003eThe labeling for each ingredient must be read separately\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Common interpretation\"\u003eRestaurant signs need the same information as packaged products\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Correct interpretation\"\u003eLabeling requirements differ for restaurants and domestically processed products\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Common interpretation\"\u003eThe country name on imported kimchi is the country that produced every ingredient\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Correct interpretation\"\u003eIt indicates the origin of the imported finished product\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Common interpretation\"\u003eIf a company in a famous producing region sells it, the produce must come from that region\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Correct interpretation\"\u003eThe seller's location and the ingredients' place of production must be distinguished\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvoid concluding that a labeling violation has occurred based on appearance alone. Impressions of the color or the shape of the cabbage cannot replace transaction records. Suspected issues are best reported with the labeling information.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#when-the-online-description-differs-from-the-delivered-packaging\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"when-the-online-description-differs-from-the-delivered-packaging\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhen the Online Description Differs From the Delivered Packaging\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eComparing online labeling with the actual packaging can reveal inconsistent descriptions. Online sales are also subject to country-of-origin labeling requirements. The labeling obligation also applies to food sold through delivery apps. Where labels must appear is explained in the \u003ca href=\"https://www.naqs.go.kr/fileManage/download.do?fileCode=file\u0026amp;fileName=%ED%86%B5%EC%8B%A0%ED%8C%90%EB%A7%A4%28%EB%B0%B0%EB%8B%AC%EC%95%B1%29+%EC%9B%90%EC%82%B0%EC%A7%80+%ED%91%9C%EC%8B%9C+%EC%95%88%EB%82%B4+%EB%A6%AC%ED%94%8C%EB%A6%BF.pdf\"\u003eNational Agricultural Products Quality Management Service's leaflet on online sales\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCompare the labeling in the following order.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCheck the product you ordered and the options you selected.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSave the origin information shown on the product details page.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCheck the product name and ingredient-specific labeling on the delivered packaging.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf the labeling for the same product differs, ask the seller for an explanation.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf you suspect missing or false labeling, report it to the National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eScreenshots and photographs of the packaging help compare differing descriptions. Keeping the order details as well makes it easier to identify the product purchased. These are suggestions to help with verification, not a list of documents required to file a report.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#2026-kimchi-making-season-inspection-period-and-reporting-contact\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"2026-kimchi-making-season-inspection-period-and-reporting-contact\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e2026 Kimchi-Making Season Inspection Period and Reporting Contact\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service's intensive inspection period is \u003cstrong\u003eNovember 4 to December 4, 2026\u003c/strong\u003e. Products covered include kimchi, salted napa cabbage, red pepper powder, garlic, and ginger. Inspections cover manufacturers, sellers, online retailers, and general restaurants, among others.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe inspections address the practice of falsely presenting foreign products as domestic. They also cover labeling agricultural products from other domestic regions as products from well-known producing regions. Online shopping malls and online sales intermediary sites are also monitored.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMissing or suspected false labeling can be reported by calling 1588-8112. This is the number for the National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service's Fraudulent Distribution Reporting Center. The schedule and reporting information are specified in the \u003ca href=\"https://www.mafra.go.kr/bbs/home/792/582112/artclView.do\"\u003eNational Agricultural Products Quality Management Service's November 2, 2026 press release\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#frequently-asked-questions\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"frequently-asked-questions\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#do-domestic-and-domestically-produced-mean-different-things\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"do-domestic-and-domestically-produced-mean-different-things\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eDo “domestic” and “domestically produced” mean different things?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoth expressions can be used to label the origin of domestic agricultural products. The difference in wording does not distinguish quality grades. Interpretation depends on which ingredient the label refers to.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#can-kimchi-made-by-a-domestic-company-contain-imported-ingredients\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"can-kimchi-made-by-a-domestic-company-contain-imported-ingredients\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eCan kimchi made by a domestic company contain imported ingredients?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Domestic manufacture and domestic ingredient origin are separate matters. You need to check the labeling for each ingredient to tell the difference.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#can-white-kimchi-omit-red-pepper-powder-labeling\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"can-white-kimchi-omit-red-pepper-powder-labeling\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eCan white kimchi omit red pepper powder labeling?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf red pepper powder was not used, there is no such ingredient to label. Domestically processed kimchi must still follow the salt labeling standards in this case. At restaurants, check the origin of the napa cabbage used.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#is-it-a-violation-if-salt-is-not-listed-on-a-restaurants-sign\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"is-it-a-violation-if-salt-is-not-listed-on-a-restaurants-sign\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eIs it a violation if salt is not listed on a restaurant's sign?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe absence of salt alone does not establish a violation. Restaurant kimchi labeling covers napa cabbage and any red pepper powder used. This must be distinguished from the ingredient labeling standards for packaged kimchi.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#is-kimchi-used-in-kimchi-stew-or-fried-rice-also-subject-to-labeling\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"is-kimchi-used-in-kimchi-stew-or-fried-rice-also-subject-to-labeling\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eIs kimchi used in kimchi stew or fried rice also subject to labeling?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNapa cabbage kimchi is subject to restaurant country-of-origin labeling regardless of how it is prepared. The requirement is not limited to kimchi served as a side dish. The labeling obligation also applies to food sold through delivery apps.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#does-the-labeling-obligation-end-when-the-intensive-inspections-end\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"does-the-labeling-obligation-end-when-the-intensive-inspections-end\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eDoes the labeling obligation end when the intensive inspections end?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe end of the intensive inspections does not end the country-of-origin labeling obligation. December 4 is the final day of this inspection schedule. The country-of-origin labeling system continues to apply separately.\u003c/p\u003e\n","tags":["Food shopping","Origin labeling"],"faqs":[{"question":"Does kimchi made in Korea contain only Korean ingredients?","answer":"Being made in Korea alone does not mean that all the ingredients are of Korean origin. Check the origin of each ingredient, such as napa cabbage, red pepper powder, and salt."},{"question":"Are \"Korean\" and \"domestic\" different labels?","answer":"Both \"Korean\" and \"domestic\" may be used to label the origin of Korean agricultural products. You need to distinguish which ingredient the label describes."},{"question":"For salted napa cabbage, what should I check besides the cabbage?","answer":"You should also check the origin of the salt. A statement that the cabbage is from Korea does not indicate where the salt comes from."},{"question":"How do restaurants label imported ready-made kimchi?","answer":"They display the country of origin listed on the import declaration certificate. If ready-made kimchi from China is used, it is labeled in a format such as \"Napa cabbage kimchi: China.\""},{"question":"Is it a violation if a restaurant's kimchi origin sign does not list the origin of the salt?","answer":"The absence of salt origin labeling alone does not constitute a violation. Restaurants are required to label the origin of the napa cabbage and the red pepper powder used."},{"question":"Does white kimchi made without red pepper powder also require origin labeling?","answer":"It does require origin labeling. Kimchi products processed in Korea must follow the labeling standards for salt and the relevant ingredients even if no red pepper powder is used. Restaurants display the origin of the napa cabbage."},{"question":"Does kimchi used in kimchi stew also require origin labeling?","answer":"At restaurants, napa cabbage kimchi requires origin labeling regardless of how it is prepared. The rule is not limited to kimchi served as a side dish."},{"question":"What should I do if the online description differs from the label on the product I received?","answer":"First, check whether the product and options match your order. Saving the product page and photos of the packaging makes it easier to compare the information. If you suspect missing or false labeling, you can report it to 1588-8112."},{"question":"When does the intensive inspection period for the 2026 kimchi-making season end?","answer":"The inspection period announced by the National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service is from November 4 to December 4, 2026. The end of the inspection period does not mean the origin labeling requirement ends."}],"sources":[{"url":"https://www.mafra.go.kr/bbs/home/792/582112/artclView.do","title":"National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service, NAQS steps up enforcement of country of origin labeling for cabbage kimchi and seasonings ahead of kimchi-making season, November 2, 2026","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.naqs.go.kr/hp/contents/contentsTab.do?menuId=MN30559","title":"National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service, Country of Origin Labeling Management","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.naqs.go.kr/fileManage/download.do?fileCode=file\u0026fileName=2019%EB%85%84+%EB%86%8D%EC%8B%9D%ED%92%88+%EC%9B%90%EC%82%B0%EC%A7%80+%ED%91%9C%EC%8B%9C%EC%A0%9C+%EC%A7%88%EC%9D%98%EC%9D%91%EB%8B%B5%EC%A7%91+%EC%9D%B8%EC%87%84%EC%8B%9C%EC%95%88.pdf","title":"National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service, 2019 Q\u0026A Guide to Country of Origin Labeling for Agricultural and Food Products","type":"source"},{"url":"https://fsi.seoul.go.kr/upload/download/2023_Produce_country_of_origin-QNA.pdf","title":"Q\u0026A Guide to Country of Origin Labeling for Agricultural and Food Products, 2023 edition, version posted in Seoul City's food safety information","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.naqs.go.kr/fileManage/download.do?fileCode=file\u0026fileName=%ED%86%B5%EC%8B%A0%ED%8C%90%EB%A7%A4%28%EB%B0%B0%EB%8B%AC%EC%95%B1%29+%EC%9B%90%EC%82%B0%EC%A7%80+%ED%91%9C%EC%8B%9C+%EC%95%88%EB%82%B4+%EB%A6%AC%ED%94%8C%EB%A6%BF.pdf","title":"National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service, Leaflet on Country of Origin Labeling for Distance Selling and Delivery Apps","type":"source"}],"images":[{"id":2702,"url":"https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NDE1MzgsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--4bd8d2d4a5dd9ba71b9c92a93382a05beae6eb53/ai-5051547c.webp","is_representative":true,"generation_method":"ai_photo","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","width":1536,"height":1024,"translations":{"ko":{"alt":"주방에서 중년 남성이 스마트폰의 김치 상품 페이지 옆에 놓인 포장 김치의 라벨을 살펴보고 있다.","caption":"김치 원료의 원산지는 온라인 상품 설명과 실제 포장지의 표시를 대조해 확인해야 한다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"A middle-aged man checks a kimchi package label beside a phone displaying a kimchi product page in a kitchen.","caption":"Check kimchi ingredient origins by comparing the online product description with the actual package label.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"台所で中年の男性が、キムチの商品ページを表示したスマートフォンの横で、包装されたキムチのラベルを確認している。","caption":"キムチの原料の原産地は、オンラインの商品説明と実際の包装表示を照合して確認する。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Un hombre revisa la etiqueta de un paquete de kimchi junto a un móvil con la página del producto en una cocina.","caption":"El origen de los ingredientes del kimchi debe verificarse comparando la descripción en línea con la etiqueta del envase.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Pria paruh baya memeriksa label kemasan kimchi di dapur, di samping ponsel yang menampilkan halaman produk kimchi.","caption":"Periksa asal bahan kimchi dengan membandingkan deskripsi produk daring dan keterangan pada kemasan sebenarnya.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Um homem confere o rótulo de um pacote de kimchi na cozinha, ao lado de um celular com a página do produto.","caption":"A origem dos ingredientes do kimchi deve ser verificada comparando a descrição on-line com o rótulo da embalagem.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"一名中年男子在廚房查看包裝泡菜的標籤，旁邊的手機顯示泡菜商品頁面。","caption":"確認泡菜原料的原產地時，應比對網路商品說明與實際包裝標示。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Ein Mann prüft in der Küche das Etikett einer Kimchi-Packung neben einem Handy mit der Produktseite.","caption":"Die Herkunft der Kimchi-Zutaten sollte durch Abgleich der Online-Produktbeschreibung mit dem Verpackungsetikett geprüft werden.","description":null}}},{"id":2703,"url":"https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NDE1NDQsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--286ca1ab702a4d93578b57e4a08aeafc19c99a76/ai-346eac43.webp","is_representative":false,"generation_method":"ai_semi","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","width":1536,"height":1024,"translations":{"ko":{"alt":"밥과 배추김치가 놓인 식당 테이블에서 벽의 원산지 안내판을 살펴보는 여성","caption":"음식점에서 국내 조리 김치를 제공할 때는 배추와 사용한 고춧가루의 원산지를 표시해야 한다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"A woman checks a restaurant’s wall-mounted origin notice, with rice and napa cabbage kimchi on her table.","caption":"Restaurants serving kimchi prepared in Korea must disclose the origins of its napa cabbage and chili powder.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"ご飯と白菜キムチが並ぶ食堂のテーブルで、壁の原産地表示を確認する女性","caption":"飲食店で韓国内で調理したキムチを提供する場合、白菜と使用した粉唐辛子の原産地を表示する必要がある。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Una mujer consulta el aviso de origen en un restaurante, con arroz y kimchi de col china en su mesa.","caption":"Los restaurantes que sirven kimchi preparado en Corea deben indicar el origen de la col china y del chile en polvo utilizado.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Seorang perempuan membaca keterangan asal bahan di dinding restoran, dengan nasi dan kimchi sawi putih di meja.","caption":"Restoran yang menyajikan kimchi buatan Korea wajib mencantumkan asal sawi putih dan bubuk cabai yang digunakan.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Uma mulher consulta o aviso de origem num restaurante, com arroz e kimchi de acelga chinesa à sua frente.","caption":"Restaurantes que servem kimchi preparado na Coreia devem informar a origem da acelga chinesa e da pimenta em pó utilizada.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"一名女子坐在餐廳內查看牆上的原產地告示，桌上擺著白飯和白菜泡菜。","caption":"餐廳供應在韓國調製的泡菜時，須標示白菜及所用辣椒粉的原產地。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Eine Frau liest im Restaurant den Herkunftshinweis; vor ihr stehen Reis und Chinakohl-Kimchi.","caption":"Restaurants müssen bei in Korea zubereitetem Kimchi die Herkunft des Chinakohls und des verwendeten Chilipulvers angeben.","description":null}}}],"published_at":"2026-11-11T13:02:23+09:00","updated_at":"2026-11-11T13:02:23+09:00","license":"cc_by","translation_status":"reviewed","available_locales":["ko","en","ja","es"],"data_locales":["ko","en","ja","es","id","pt","zh-hant","de"],"url":"https://injoys.com/en/articles/baechu-kimchi-domestic-imported-origin-labeling"}