CJ CheilJedang has announced the establishment of a fully automated production facility for frozen kimbap at its CJ Blossom Campus in Jincheon.
This marks the first time in the food industry that the entire process—from ingredient insertion and rolling to cutting and tray loading—has been automated. Developed in-house over 18 months, the system significantly increases production speed while maintaining consistent weight and meeting strict global hygiene standards.
Leveraging its expertise in rice cooking and rapid-freezing technology, the company has optimized the texture and appearance of its “bibigo” frozen kimbap.
Since its launch in 2023, the product line (including Bulgogi, Kimchi Cheese, and Tuna Mayo) has reached 25 countries, surpassing 8 million units in cumulative sales. With an average annual revenue growth rate of 130%, frozen kimbap has emerged as a rising star in the K-food sector.
With the new Jincheon production base, CJ CheilJedang plans to accelerate its global expansion, particularly focusing on the U.S., Europe, and Australia.
The company aims to increase its presence in major U.S. grocery chains in the second half of this year. An official stated, “This is a strategic investment to accelerate the expansion of K-food territory beyond just scaling up production,” emphasizing the goal to establish bibigo as the definitive global K-kimbap brand.
[ONLINE-KOREA: Letter from Korea]
Kimbap was once considered a challenging item for global mass production due to its labor-intensive nature, but it has now evolved through “robot algorithms” 🤖.
Yet, looking at those perfectly standardized rolls lined up on the production belt, I can’t help but think that the slightly uneven, warm “handmade Kimbap” is the real deal👩🦰❤️
At ONLINE-KOREA, our mission is to deliver the best of Korea to the world, but unfortunately, we cannot deliver a freshly cooked, warm meal directly to your doorstep. If you ever visit Korea, I highly recommend trying authentic, handmade Kimbap. It has a depth of flavor and emotion that even the best technology cannot fully replicate😄💕
Of course, you’d need to find a truly great restaurant to get the best taste, wouldn’t you?😜
ONLINEKOREANEWS.COM 