Korea’s Beloved Superfood,

All About Red Ginseng

Korea’s health food market is incredibly innovative and diverse. With products constantly evolving to meet the needs of consumers of all ages, from young adults to seniors, health-focused consumption is booming. One of the most prominent trends is “health digging”—where people actively seek out products that enhance their well-being.

At the top of the health food market is red ginseng, today’s spotlight superfood. Red ginseng is Korea’s go-to for boosting immunity and fighting fatigue, loved by people of all ages. It’s so popular that tourists even make sure to take some home as a souvenir.

Let's find out why Koreans are so obsessed with this superfood and why it has become a must-have for tourists.

Red Ginseng

Red ginseng is not just ordinary ginseng—it undergoes a special steaming and drying process that distinguishes it from fresh ginseng. 

Many people mistakenly believe that ginseng and red ginseng are the same, but in fact, they differ greatly in both their preparation and health benefits.

Ginseng refers to the raw form harvested directly from the field without any processing. On the other hand, red ginseng is made by repeated steaming and drying ginseng, which turns its color from white to red—hence the name is 'red ginseng'. This process is believed to enhance its health benefits, such as boosting immunity, improving fatigue recovery, and promoting better blood circulation. Thanks to this unique preparation method, red ginseng is considered more effective than regular ginseng, making it a popular health supplement in Korea.

Red ginseng is not only for maintaining health but also easy to incorporate into daily life, making it one of Korea's most beloved superfoods.

Top Two Ways to Enjoy Red Ginseng

There are two main ways people in Korea consume red ginseng: the traditional method of using a spoon to scoop out ginseng extract from jars, and the more recent trend of using stick packs, which have become incredibly popular due to their convenience.

In the past, red ginseng was primarily consumed by spooning it from jars of concentrated extract. However, as portability has become more important, stick packs have become increasingly popular. These single-serving sticks make it easy to take red ginseng anywhere—whether you're at home, at school, at work, or even while exercising. Just carry them in your pocket or bag and squeeze one out whenever you need a quick boost.

This trend reflects the increasing demand for convenience in health products. As more and more Koreans look for easy ways to stay healthy on the go, red ginseng stick products are becoming more popular than ever.

Let's take a closer look at the red ginseng stick products that are trending today.

Top Red Ginseng Stick Products

Korea's red ginseng market is highly developed, with consumers choosing products that cater to their individual health needs. While foreign visitors often know only Jung Kwan Jang, Korea's most iconic red ginseng brand, there are several other excellent options available. From boosting immunity to improving skin health or helping with fatigue recovery, these products offer targeted benefits. Let's take a look at the top red ginseng brands that Koreans love, including Jung Kwan Jang and other highly popular products on the market.

01. Daedong Korean Ginseng’s Bulrogeon KOREAN RED GINSENG PREMIUM

This product, manufactured by Daedong Korean Ginseng Co., Ltd., gained significant attention following a 2021 report by the Korea Consumer Agency. The study compared the ginsenoside content in 13 popular red ginseng products among 1,000 Korean consumers, and this particular product was found to contain the highest total ginsenoside Rg1, Rb1, and Rg3 content per serving, with an impressive 33mg. This news coverage boosted the product’s popularity, leading to a surge in consumer demand.

Despite its high ginsenoside content, the product is praised for its reasonable price, offering great value for money. As a result, it has cultivated a dedicated fanbase. Made from 100% pure six-year-old Korean red ginseng extract without a drop of water added, it has a smooth and mild taste despite its rich ingredients.

02. Chamdahan Red Ginseng's RED GINSENG EXTRACT STICK

This brand left a significant impression on consumers with its bold and confident marketing. At one point, Chamdahan red ginseng made a daring promise: after taking their product consistently for two months, if you catch a cold within 30 days, they would cover six months of medical expenses. This bold offer demonstrated the brand's strong belief in the effectiveness of its products.

The confidence behind this offer comes from their unique approach—Chamdahan uses whole ginseng roots, grinding them entirely to capture all the benefits of red ginseng. Additionally, they process the product into ultra-fine powder, around 7-8 micrometers in size, making it easier for the body to absorb the nutrients. This emphasis on absorption, rather than just consumption, has resonated with consumers, and the brand remains a favorite among Koreans.

Chamdahan continues its relentless research to maximize the health benefits of red ginseng. Thanks to its high absorption rate, if you want to experience the true effects of red ginseng, this brand is highly recommended. Its strong and rich flavor also sets it apart from other brands.

03. Hansamin’s RED GINSENG GOODDAY EXTRACT STICK

✋ This is a direct translation of the product name as there is no official English name available.

Hansamin is a red ginseng brand operated by a subsidiary fully funded by the National Agricultural Cooperative Federation (NACF). So, what exactly is the NACF? It’s an agricultural cooperative created by farmers across Korea to work together, serving as a comprehensive service center for rural communities. This cooperative ensures high-quality, locally grown agricultural products are processed and distributed across Korea, maintaining freshness and high standards.

With this logistical advantage, NACF offers products like red ginseng with strict quality control, making Hansamin a highly trusted and affordable brand in Korea. You’ll find their products in most supermarkets, known for their rigorous selection of raw ingredients and thorough inspections. This accessibility and reliable quality have made Hansamin a go-to red ginseng brand for many consumers.

04. Jung Kwan Jang's RED GINSENG EXTRACT EVERTIME

This product, made by Jung Kwan Jang, the representative brand of Korea Ginseng Corporation (KGC), is one of the most well-known red ginseng products in Korea. Many people mistakenly believe that KGC is a government-owned company, but it's actually a subsidiary of KT&G, a private company. Although it was once a public company, KGC now operates independently as a private company.

Jung Kwan Jang’s Everytime isn’t particularly noted for the highest ginsenoside content or the most affordable price. However, its long-standing reputation and nationwide availability make it a trusted and widely sought-after product in Korea. People trust the brand for its product stability and reliability, built over many years.

One unique point about this product is its distinct taste. Compared to other brands like Hansamin, which may have a sweeter flavor due to added ingredients like jujube or pear, Jung Kwan Jang’s products tend to have a more potent, bitter taste typical of pure red ginseng.

The red ginseng brands and products we introduced today may include some you haven’t seen before, but they are all loved for their health benefits. With the trend toward more convenient consumption methods, stick-type ginseng products have become especially popular. Whether you're visiting Korea or simply looking to improve your health, it's a great idea to try different red ginseng products to find the one that suits you best.

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