Indian Consumers Embrace Korean Cuisine as Orders Surge 50%

The popularity of Korean cuisine in India has surged significantly, with a recent survey by Swiggy revealing a remarkable 50 percent year-on-year increase in orders for Korean dishes. This growth, observed between July 2024 and July 2025, highlights a broader cultural shift as Indian consumers increasingly adopt international flavors, particularly from South Korea.

The trend is particularly pronounced among younger generations, with Millennials and Gen Z leading the charge. As K-dramas and K-pop have captivated Indian audiences, the culinary aspect of Korean culture has found a firm footing in the nation’s dining choices. According to Swiggy’s internal insights, cities such as Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Hyderabad have driven the majority of this demand. However, the surge in interest from emerging markets is noteworthy, with a 59 percent increase in orders from cities like Surat, Thiruvananthapuram, Vadodara, Mysuru, and Mangaluru.

Gen Z has emerged as a key demographic in this trend, accounting for 27 percent of all Korean food orders on Swiggy over the past year. This demographic’s propensity to embrace global trends is reshaping consumption patterns not only in food but across various sectors. As their preferences evolve, the data reveals a rising interest in specific Korean dishes.

Among the most popular items ordered are the Korean McAloo Tikki Burger and Korean Corn & Jalapeno Garlic Bread. Other favorites such as the Korean Tangy Chicken Roll and Korean Spicy Chicken Burger are also gaining traction. Furthermore, Korean-inspired beverages like Korean Yuzu-Pop Sprite are emerging as favored choices among consumers.

The increasing interest in Korean cuisine reflects a larger trend of Indian consumers becoming more adventurous with international flavors. Brands are responding to this demand by offering localized versions of global cuisines in formats that are both accessible and appealing. This shift suggests that Korean food is poised to have a more significant impact on India’s evolving culinary landscape.

As the appetite for Korean flavors continues to grow, it becomes clear that this wave is not just a fleeting trend but a substantial shift in the preferences of Indian consumers. The integration of international cuisine into everyday dining is indicative of a more interconnected world, where culinary borders are increasingly blurred, fostering a culture of experimentation and enjoyment among food enthusiasts.