From Seoul to Saudi: How Korean and Japanese stores are influencing Saudi tastes

The availability of Korean and Japanese products is fostering new habits in families around the Kingdom. (Supplied)
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The availability of Korean and Japanese products is fostering new habits in families around the Kingdom. (Supplied)
From Seoul to Saudi: How Korean and Japanese stores are influencing Saudi tastes
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The storefront of Kimchi Mart in Riyadh, highlighting its dedication to Japanese and Korean sweets, snacks, and specialty products. (Supplied)
From Seoul to Saudi: How Korean and Japanese stores are influencing Saudi tastes
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A colorful display of beverages, sauces, and ready-to-eat foods in the refrigerated section of Japanese & Korean Mart, offering an authentic taste of East Asia. (Supplied)
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Updated 04 January 2025
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From Seoul to Saudi: How Korean and Japanese stores are influencing Saudi tastes

The availability of Korean and Japanese products is fostering new habits in families around the Kingdom. (Supplied)
  • Exotic flavors find favor in Saudi cities
  • Food trend spurred by pop stars and TV dramas

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s streets are no stranger to international flavors, but in recent years, Korean and Japanese specialty supermarkets have found new popularity. From rows of instant noodles and savory sauces to unique skincare products, these stores offer a slice of East Asia in the heart of Saudi Arabia. Cities like Riyadh and Alkhobar are embracing this cultural and culinary fusion, highlighting the growing appetite for global experiences among Saudis, driven by the influence of entertainment and a desire for novelty.

Korean culture, spearheaded by the global phenomenon of K-pop and K-dramas, has taken the world by storm, and Saudi Arabia is no exception. For Fahad Al-Salmi, the owner of the Japanese and Korean Mart in Riyadh, this cultural wave was a business opportunity waiting to happen. “Our decision to open a Korean supermarket in Saudi Arabia was driven by a growing interest in Korean culture, particularly through K-pop, K-dramas, and Korean cuisine,” Al-Salmi told Arab News.




The entrance of Japanese & Korean Mart in Riyadh, featuring vibrant signage and a welcoming display showcasing the cultural connection between Saudi Arabia, Japan, and Korea. (Supplied)

“Many Saudis are curious about trying new flavors and exploring international cultures, and Korea has become a popular trend. We saw an opportunity to introduce authentic Korean products to satisfy that demand and to offer a unique experience for local customers,” he added.

This curiosity is translating into tangible lifestyle changes. Korean snacks, instant noodles, and condiments like gochujang (Korean chili paste) and soy sauce have become staples for many families. Al-Salmi observes that these products are now becoming integrated into everyday meals for many Saudi households. “With the influence of Korean entertainment, many Saudis are more open to trying international foods and incorporating them into their diets,” he noted.

HIGHLIGHTS

• While Riyadh has witnessed a growing number of specialty stores, cities like Alkhobar and Al-Shamalia are also joining the movement.

• By offering authentic and unique products, Korean and Japanese supermarkets are creating connections between cultures.

For Abdusalam Thodi, the owner of Kimchi Supermarket in Riyadh, the inspiration was personal. “I was inspired by Korea to open a Korean supermarket because I studied there,” shared Thodi. “Our bestsellers are Korean noodles and sauces, but we also offer a wide range of cultural products and specialty foods. Korean cuisine and culture are rapidly growing in popularity here in Saudi Arabia, and we’re proud to be part of this exciting trend.”




The availability of Korean and Japanese products is fostering new habits in families. (Supplied)

While Riyadh has witnessed a growing number of these specialty stores, cities like Alkhobar and Al-Shamalia are also joining the movement. The expansion into these regions highlights the nationwide appeal of Korean and Japanese supermarkets, catering to the tastes and preferences of Saudis across the Kingdom.

The allure of these supermarkets extends far beyond their aisles. They offer customers the chance to engage with a lifestyle that, until recently, was only accessible through screens. For long-time K-drama fan Fatimah Al-Dossari, the emergence of Korean supermarkets has been a dream come true.

With the influence of Korean entertainment, many Saudis are more open to trying international foods and incorporating them into their diets.

Fahad Al-Salmi, Japanese and Korean Mart owner

“I’ve been watching Korean dramas for 20 years, and I never imagined I’d get to try the food they enjoy on screen!” said Al-Dossari. “It’s amazing to see so many supermarkets now offering popular Korean snacks, noodles, cooking sauces, and seasonings. I couldn’t be happier — shopping for these items has become a regular treat for me every three weeks!"




Korean snacks, instant noodles, and condiments like gochujang (Korean chili paste) and soy sauce have become staples for many families. (Supplied)

Zainab Al-Salman, a frequent customer, describes the experience of shopping at these stores as a unique cultural adventure. “Trying new things that represent a different culture is always a great way to get to know this culture in your home and have a fun time exploring it,” she said. “Every time I go, it’s like visiting a museum. I tend to feel happy and joyful trying to pick what I will try next that I haven’t tried before.”

Al-Salman also appreciates the practical advantages of these markets. “Specialty markets often offer more options than just one section in other regular markets, and sometimes they are even cheaper,” she added.

The availability of Korean and Japanese products is fostering new habits in families. Al-Salman shared how her family’s shopping behavior has evolved thanks to these specialty supermarkets.

“Yes, it did help me build some habits like buying a kimchi bowl every few months for the family,” she explained. “That opened their eyes to other different things.”

Korean and Japanese supermarkets offer products and experiences that traditional supermarkets cannot replicate.

“Some of these products are not popular (enough) to be produced and sold in our markets, like different types of skincare products that are more effective than others,” noted Al-Salman. “This makes the supermarkets more attractive due to having more options to choose between.”

Al-Salman described how specialty markets provide a sense of wonder for shoppers. “For people who’ve never visited, their first visit is always like a good experience for them to see different things than a regular market,” she said.

For business owners like Al-Salmi and Thodi, the journey is as rewarding as it is exciting. By offering authentic and unique products, they are creating connections between cultures.

As Al-Dossari summed it up: “It’s amazing to see how food can bring people closer to a culture.”

With the growing influence of global cultures, Saudi Arabia’s retail sector is transforming, one supermarket aisle at a time. Cities like Alkhobar and Al-Shamalia are now key players in this transformation, ensuring that the bond between cultures continues to grow stronger with each passing year.

 


KSrelief’s Project Masam clears 714 explosives in Yemen last week

KSrelief’s Project Masam clears 714 explosives in Yemen last week
Updated 12 February 2025
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KSrelief’s Project Masam clears 714 explosives in Yemen last week

KSrelief’s Project Masam clears 714 explosives in Yemen last week

RIYADH: Demining teams from Saudi Project for Landmine Clearance in Yemen (Masam) cleared 714 landmines, unexploded ordnance and improvised explosive devices during the first week of February, state news agency SPA report.

Project Masam, being implemented by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief), has 32 teams engaged in mine clearance operations in Yemen to reduce civilians’ exposure to landmines and explosive remnants of war. Masam teams clear areas of immediate humanitarian priority including villages, roads and schools.

The cleared explosives included 684 unexploded ordnances and 30 anti-tank mines across various regions of the country.

Since its launch, the Project Masam has successfully removed 481,240 explosives.


Saudi Cabinet reviews regional developments, approves key agreements

Saudi Cabinet reviews regional developments, approves key agreements
Updated 11 February 2025
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Saudi Cabinet reviews regional developments, approves key agreements

Saudi Cabinet reviews regional developments, approves key agreements
  • Ministers reject Israeli statements advocating displacement of Palestinians
  • Meeting praises Kingdom’s economic diversification efforts

RIYADH: Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman chaired the weekly Cabinet session in Riyadh on Tuesday, where key regional and international issues were discussed and agreements aimed at enhancing the Kingdom’s global partnerships were approved, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The crown prince briefed the Cabinet on his recent phone calls with Jordan’s King Abdullah II and UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan.

The Cabinet strongly rejected Israeli statements advocating the displacement of Palestinians, reaffirming Saudi Arabia’s commitment to the Palestinian cause. The ministers said that lasting peace could be achieved only through the two-state solution and peaceful coexistence.

The session highlighted the Kingdom’s growing influence in multilateral organizations, particularly its recent election to the Executive Committee of the International Association of Anti-Corruption Authorities. The achievement reflects global recognition of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to combat corruption and promote transparency.

On the domestic front, the Cabinet praised the continuing economic diversification efforts, particularly the launch of the King Salman Automobile Manufacturing Complex, which is expected to boost the economic contribution of the non-oil sector and support the National Industry and Logistics Development Program.

The ministers commended the completion of the Financial Sustainability Program’s executive plan, which aims to enhance spending efficiency, develop revenue streams and strengthen Saudi Arabia’s economic resilience under Vision 2030.

The Kingdom’s top ranking on the security index for the Group of 20 industrialized and emerging-market nations was also recognized as a testament to its leadership in ensuring stability and prosperity.

During the session, the Cabinet approved several agreements to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s international partnerships. In the field of security cooperation, ministers signed a deal with Jordan to combat narcotics trafficking, while on the diplomatic front, a mutual visa exemption deal was finalized with the Solomon Islands for holders of diplomatic, special and official passports.

Economic and trade relations were also discussed, with the Cabinet authorizing negotiations for a political consultations memorandum with Armenia and approving a commercial cooperation agreement with the Maldives.

A new partnership was also established with Oman in the field of economy and planning, while a separate memorandum of understanding was signed with Qatar to enhance financial cooperation. The government also approved an agreement with Serbia to avoid double taxation and prevent tax evasion.

In the cultural and scientific fields, a memorandum of understanding was signed with Morocco’s Hassan II Mosque Foundation to promote traditional arts, while another was agreed with the UK’s Meteorological Office for cooperation in meteorology.

Transport and infrastructure initiatives were also on the agenda, with the approval of an agreement with Egypt to enhance maritime connectivity and passenger transport in the Gulf of Aqaba. In the financial sector, the Cabinet endorsed a new partnership to enhance cooperation between the Saudi Central Bank and the Central Bank of Turkiye.

The Cabinet also approved amendments to the Public Prosecution Law and the Board of Grievances Law, adding experienced professionals to their respective councils. Additionally, key promotions were confirmed, including the appointment of Abdul-Moneim bin Abdul-Rahman bin Saleh Al-Mahmoud as an ambassador at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.


Saudi paralympic ball game helping empower people with disabilities

Boccia, a precision ball game, was introduced into the Paralympic Games in 1984 and has since rocketed in popularity. (SPA)
Boccia, a precision ball game, was introduced into the Paralympic Games in 1984 and has since rocketed in popularity. (SPA)
Updated 11 February 2025
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Saudi paralympic ball game helping empower people with disabilities

Boccia, a precision ball game, was introduced into the Paralympic Games in 1984 and has since rocketed in popularity. (SPA)
  • Boccia uses six leather balls per side and can be played by individuals, pairs, or teams of three

RIYADH: The sport of boccia is helping to empower people living with severe physical disabilities across the Kingdom, the head of its governing body said.

The precision ball game, which is related to bowls and petanque, was introduced into the Paralympic Games in 1984 and has since rocketed in popularity.

Boccia, a precision ball game, was introduced into the Paralympic Games in 1984 and has since rocketed in popularity. (SPA)

Mohsen Al-Ismail, president of the Saudi Boccia Federation, said his organization was committed to promoting the sport throughout the Kingdom and helping nurture talent, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

When the game was introduced to the Paralympics it was designed to be played by people with cerebral palsy but now includes athletes with other disabilities affecting motor skills.

FASTFACTS

• Mohsen Al-Ismail, president of the Saudi Boccia Federation, said his organization was committed to promoting the sport throughout the Kingdom and helping nurture talent.

• In 1984, the sport attracted just 19 athletes from five countries. In 2024, there were 116 players from 75 countries.

In 1984, the sport attracted just 19 athletes from five countries. In 2024, there were 116 players from 75 countries.

Al-Ismail said the sport helped individuals with cerebral palsy, particularly those with nerve issues, by improving balance, stimulating blood circulation, strengthening muscles and supporting motor rehabilitation.

Boccia uses six leather balls per side and can be played by individuals, pairs, or teams of three. The aim is for players to throw their balls as close as they can to a white target ball, or jack.

The game dates back to ancient Greece and Egypt and its name is derived from the Latin word for “boss.”

 


Saudi Arabia tops G20 Safety Index, GASTAT report says

Saudi Arabia tops G20 Safety Index, GASTAT report says
Updated 11 February 2025
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Saudi Arabia tops G20 Safety Index, GASTAT report says

Saudi Arabia tops G20 Safety Index, GASTAT report says

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has ranked first among G20 countries in public safety perception, with 92.6 percent of the Kingdom’s population feeling safe walking alone at night in their residential areas, according to the 2023 Safety Index Publication issued by the General Authority for Statistics.

The data, drawn from the Global Sustainable Development Goals Indicators Database, highlights the effectiveness of government initiatives aimed at enhancing security and quality of life across the country, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

GASTAT said the results reflected the contributions of various government sectors in ensuring the safety of individuals across all regions and governorates.

Saudi Arabia’s ranking aligned with its broader efforts as part of the Saudi Vision 2030 to enhance stability and well-being across multiple domains, including economic, food, environmental, health, social, political, intellectual, technological, and cybersecurity safety, SPA added.

The Safety Index Publication was a key outcome of the 2023 Household Socio-Economic Survey, which assessed various aspects of economic and social life in Saudi Arabia, including residents’ perceptions of safety in their local communities.


Saudi Arabia’s real estate giant ROSHN using AI to enhance efficiency, improve services

Pablo Sanz, Executive Director of Digital Products at ROSHN Group speaks to Arab News at LEAP 2025. (AN photo)
Pablo Sanz, Executive Director of Digital Products at ROSHN Group speaks to Arab News at LEAP 2025. (AN photo)
Updated 12 February 2025
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Saudi Arabia’s real estate giant ROSHN using AI to enhance efficiency, improve services

Pablo Sanz, Executive Director of Digital Products at ROSHN Group speaks to Arab News at LEAP 2025. (AN photo)
  • Technology helps build 3D models, automate procurement, executive says
  • State-owned developer has plans to build fully integrated communities in 9 cities

RIYADH: State-owned property developer ROSHN said it is using artificial intelligence across its operations to enhance efficiency, improve the customer experience and support its sustainability efforts.

Speaking to Arab News on the sidelines of the LEAP 2025 technology conference in Riyadh, Pablo Sanz, executive director of digital products, said: “We are deploying multiple AI agents … so we can serve you better or we can solve your problems in a more convenient way.”

The move was part of the company’s broader strategy to simplify processes and improve accessibility, to assist customers with purchases, moving in and managing services, he said.

Sanz said AI-powered tools were being used to create 3D models of buildings, automate the procurement process, streamline construction, reduce waste, improve efficiency and analyze data on real estate markets.

ROSHN recently partnered with Google Cloud to enhance its AI capabilities. The collaboration is designed to improve data-driven decision making and ensure the company’s developments align with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 for smart and sustainable cities.

“AI is changing how we do a lot of things,” Sanz said. “The human touch is still important, but AI allows us to work faster and make processes more convenient in many areas, from customer interactions to supplier relationships.”

ROSHN has plans to build fully integrated communities in five cities – Jeddah, Makkah, Riyadh, Hofuf and Dammam – across the country and is a key player in the Kingdom’s goal to achieve 70 percent home ownership by 2030.