Photo: Union Forsea Corp.

South Korean Frozen Pollock Imports Plummet 61% in October Amid Soaring Prices

SOUTH KOREA
Monday, November 17, 2025, 00:10 (GMT + 9)

Sharp Volume Collapse Signals Intensifying Supply Instability and Rising Reliance on Russia

The South Korean import market for frozen pollock experienced a dramatic contraction in October 2025, with the volume of imports falling by a striking 61% compared to the same month last year.

According to a detailed analysis from the specialized seafood platform, Union Forsea Corp., this sharp decrease in volume is particularly concerning as the average unit price continued to climb, signaling intensifying supply instability in a market heavily reliant on a single source.

Import Volume Collapses and Cumulative Decline

The data reveals a steep monthly decline and a significant cumulative drop throughout the year:

• October 2025 Volume: Only 6,391 tons of frozen pollock were imported in October, a 61% reduction from the 16,488 tons imported during October 2024.

• Cumulative Volume (Jan-Oct): Total imports from January to October reached 101,521 tons, marking a 17% decrease compared to the 121,625 tons imported in the same period of the previous year. This volume still represents 13% of South Korea's total seafood imports (778,281 tons).

• Import Value Decline: The total import value for October dropped to USD 7.53 million, a 56% decline from USD 17.13 million in October 2024. The cumulative import value stood at USD 108.20 million, down 8% from USD 118.23 million in the previous year.

Pollock H&G

Unit Price Rises by 10% Amid Russian Reliance

Despite the massive drop in import volume, the average cost of pollock has significantly increased, placing upward pressure on domestic consumer prices.

• Average Unit Price: The average import unit price for frozen pollock reached USD 1.07/kg through October 2025, representing a robust 10% increase from USD 0.97/kg in the previous year.

• Country Breakdown and Reliance: Imports remain overwhelmingly reliant on Russia, which supplied 97% of the total pollock volume (98,856 tons) during the period. Unit prices varied by supplier: USD 1.05/kg from Russia, USD 1.63/kg from the United States, and USD 1.74/kg from China.

Pollock fillet skinless

Market Outlook: Critical Concern for Year-End Supply

Union Forsea Corp.'s analysis suggests that the heavy reliance on Russia, coupled with sustained price increases, makes the 61% drop in October’s volume a critical concern for domestic supply stability. This dramatic shift is likely to translate into higher final consumer prices for pollock products as the country heads into the crucial year-end season.

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