Demand for bomdong, a seasonal spring cabbage in South Korea, has driven wholesale prices up 33.6% in one month amid a viral 'bomdong bibimbap' craze on social media. The trend is boosting food sales and even influencing fashion colors. Prices reached 47,099 won for a 15kg box at Seoul's Garak Market as of March 4, 2026.
The Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation (aT) reported that the wholesale price for a 15kg box of premium bomdong at Seoul's Garak Market stood at 47,099 won on March 4, 2026, marking a 33.6% increase from 35,252 won on February 2. Although lower than the previous year, the rise stems from sudden demand spikes, according to a Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs official. "Production hasn't changed significantly, but prices rose as demand suddenly increased," the official stated. They added, "Due to high popularity, some supplies were shipped early, and prices may remain above average through mid-March."
Bomdong, sown in September and harvested from late October through late March, develops a strong sweetness and crisp texture after enduring winter, earning it the nickname "early spring limited-edition cabbage." Jindo in South Jeolla Province serves as a major production area.
Retail interest has surged alongside the trend. Emart recorded a 78.3% year-on-year increase in bomdong sales last month. Naver DataLab data shows bomdong ranking among the top five food search terms from February 26 to March 4, 2026, outpacing items like "Dubai chewy cookies." Restaurants, including bibimbap specialty shops, kimbap joints, and pubs, have begun adding bomdong bibimbap to their menus.
Food companies are responding with new products. Daesang's kimchi brand Jongga launched "Bomdong Geotjeori" in January 2026, featuring domestic bomdong with signature seasoning to highlight its crisp texture. The product sold over 20,000 units—equivalent to about 22 tons—within roughly two months.
The bomdong phenomenon extends to lifestyle sectors. In fashion, LF has increased green-toned products, such as light green, mint, and light yellow-green, in brands like Hazzys Kids, Double Flag, and Daks for the Spring/Summer 2026 season. LF Mall noted a 55% year-on-year rise in "green" searches and 50% for "mint." An LF representative commented, "While pink and yellow have traditionally dominated spring color trends, green tones are rapidly gaining prominence this year. Seasonal color consumption is expanding."
