South Korean buyers are interested in Irish beef

The group, which includes leading meat importers and distributors from South Korea, completed an intensive itinerary designed to give them insight into the capabilities of Irish beef suppliers and sustainable practices on Irish beef farms. After visiting meat processing plants throughout the week, shoppers visited John Purcell Farm near Golden, Co. Tipperary, on Wednesday 17 July.

Joe Moore, Bord Bia's Country Manager for South Korea and Japan, commented: “We are delighted to welcome these influential buyers to Ireland. They will be able to learn more about Irish beef production throughout the supply chain. We have been building relationships with Korean consumers for many years, supported by campaigns and trade missions co-funded with the EU . By inviting buyers to Ireland, we are demonstrating Ireland's commitment to the Korean market, helping to build long-term commercial relationships.”

In May, ministers Charlie McConalogue and Martin Haydon announced the opening of the South Korean market to Irish beef following an extensive approval process, with seven plants given permission to supply the market. Bord Bia will host a trade mission led by the South Korean government in September where Irish beef will be officially introduced to consumers.

This follows on from the government's previous trade mission to Seoul in 2019 and the Team Ireland trade mission to Korea in 2023.