Indian Demand for Korean Cuisine Surges 50% in Just One Year

A recent survey by Swiggy has revealed a significant shift in Indian food preferences, with orders for Korean cuisine increasing by an impressive 50% year-on-year from July 2024 to July 2025. This surge indicates that Korean food is rapidly becoming a popular choice among Indian consumers, extending beyond the initial appeal of K-dramas and K-pop to influence everyday dining habits.

The findings highlight a growing acceptance of Korean culture in India, particularly among younger demographics. The data shows that the most notable demand for Korean dishes is concentrated in major metropolitan areas such as Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Hyderabad. However, the trend is not limited to these cities. Swiggy observed a remarkable 59% increase in Korean food orders from emerging markets, including cities like Surat, Thiruvananthapuram, Vadodara, Mysuru, and Mangaluru.

The influence of Gen Z is particularly noteworthy in this trend. This demographic, known for its openness to global influences, accounted for 27% of all Korean food orders on the platform over the past year. Their appetite for diverse culinary experiences positions them as key drivers of the growing popularity of Korean cuisine in India.

The data also reflects a marked shift in consumer interests, with trending searches revealing a fascination with specific Korean dishes. Terms like “Korean bun,” “Korean cheese bun,” “Korean ramen,” and “Korean chicken” have emerged as some of the most popular keywords on Swiggy in the last year. Notably, the Korean McAloo Tikki Burger has become the most-ordered item, followed by Korean Corn & Jalapeno Garlic Bread and Korean Tangy Chicken Roll.

Emerging trends also indicate a growing interest in Korean-inspired beverages, with items such as Korean Yuzu-Pop Sprite gaining traction among consumers. This increasing demand illustrates a broader shift in the Indian food landscape, where consumers are more willing to experiment with international flavors.

As brands respond to this growing interest, they are localizing global cuisines into more accessible and snackable formats. This trend signifies that Korean food is not merely a passing fad; it is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of dining in India. The insights provided by Swiggy reflect a dynamic evolution in consumer preferences, highlighting a vibrant culinary exchange that resonates with a diverse audience across the country.