From dramas to dinner plates! Korean food is taking India by storm, thanks to its vibrant flavors and cultural appeal. Young Indians are leading the charge,
expanding the trend beyond metro cities.
Hallyu Wave Hits
The initial spark came from the Hallyu wave—K-dramas and K-pop. Now, it's influencing dining choices. Swiggy's data highlights a 50% year-on-year increase in Korean food orders between July 2025 and July 2024. This love for all things Korean extends beyond entertainment and into our kitchens.
Metro vs. Beyond
While Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Hyderabad lead, growth is booming in smaller cities. Surat, Thiruvananthapuram, and Vadodara, among others, saw a 59% increase in Korean food orders. This shows the reach of Korean cuisine is expanding far beyond the usual metropolitan areas, showcasing India's diverse food palate.
Gen Z's Flavor Fiesta
Gen Z's interest is key, accounting for 27% of all Korean food orders. This generation is quick to adopt global trends. They're driving the demand for items like Korean buns, ramen, and chicken. Their enthusiasm is reshaping India's culinary preferences, one delicious dish at a time.
Menu Mania Unfolds
The Indian palate is being treated to exciting Korean-inspired fusion dishes. The Korean McAloo Tikki Burger, Korean Corn & Jalapeno Garlic Bread, and Korean Tangy Chicken Roll are all becoming popular. Even beverages like Yuzu-Pop Sprite are trending. This is a testament to the fusion of cultures.
Future Food Trends
The increasing interest in Korean cuisine indicates a wider shift in India’s food culture. Global flavors are increasingly shaping the dining landscape. The trend is expected to grow, spreading beyond the major cities. The future of Indian cuisine seems to be a flavorful mix of global influences.
