Pet: her Bichon Frisé, Sammy
Why is PFI’s mission important to you? What made you interested in supporting the mission of PFI as South Korea’s representative?
I’ve always believed that pets are family, and like any family member, they deserve the best nutrition available. This belief drew me to PFI, whose commitment to science-backed, regulatory-compliant pet food deeply resonated with me. The U.S. pet food industry is at the forefront of innovation, setting global standards for pet nutrition, safety and sustainability.
As PFI’s representative in South Korea, my goal is to bridge the gap between U.S. pet food exporters and Korean consumers, ensuring that pet owners here understand the benefits of feeding their pets high-quality U.S. products. With pet ownership in South Korea growing rapidly, there’s an increased demand for high-quality pet food. I’m proud to be part of an initiative that ensures Korean pet owners have access to safe, nutritious, and premium-quality U.S. pet food.
How has PFI been able to help consumers and industry professionals better understand the value of U.S. pet food?
The Korean pet food market is evolving rapidly, with consumers seeking premium and functional pet food options that cater to their pets’ specific needs. U.S. pet food brands are gaining traction in Korea due to their emphasis on:
- Nutritional Excellence: U.S. pet food adheres to rigorous standards set by the FDA, USDA and AAFCO, ensuring optimal nutrition for pets.
- Ingredient Transparency: Korean consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of quality ingredients. U.S. brands prioritize transparency, showcasing responsibly sourced ingredients with clear labeling.
- Functional and Specialized Diets: From grain-free options to breed-specific and life-stage formulations, U.S. pet food companies are leading the way in innovation to meet the diverse dietary needs of pets in Korea.
PFI plays a critical role in educating Korean pet owners and industry professionals on these key advantages. Through trade shows, seminars and collaborations with importers and retailers, we strive to build trust and expand access to top-tier U.S. pet food products in Korea.
What moment or event stands out to you as you reflect on your work with PFI?
One of the most rewarding experiences in my role has been witnessing the shift in Korean consumer perception of U.S. pet food. At industry events, I’ve had the opportunity to speak directly with pet owners who initially had reservations about imported pet food but later became strong advocates after learning about the rigorous safety and nutritional standards upheld by U.S. manufacturers.
A standout moment for me was at MegaZoo 2024, where PFI hosted educational sessions and product showcases. The overwhelming interest from both consumers and industry stakeholders demonstrated the growing demand for reliable pet food options. It reinforced the importance of our work in bridging knowledge gaps and fostering confidence in U.S. pet food products.
How are you looking forward to carrying out this work in the future?
As we look ahead, my top priorities for the Korean market include:
- Strengthening partnerships with major retailers and e-commerce platforms to enhance accessibility.
- Expanding educational initiatives to help pet owners make informed decisions about their pets’ diets.
- Collaborating with veterinarians and industry experts to provide credible, science-backed nutritional guidance.
We also plan to roll out digital campaigns highlighting the benefits of U.S. pet food, leveraging social media and influencer partnerships to reach a wider audience. By continuing to build awareness and trust, we can help Korean pet owners make the best choices for their beloved companions.
How can people in South Korea help to spread your messages?
Korean pet owners, retailers and pet professionals can support our initiatives by:
- Engaging with PFI’s content on social media, signing up for our newsletter, visiting our website and sharing information with fellow pet owners.
- Attending industry events and educational sessions to stay informed on pet nutrition trends.
- Exploring U.S. pet food options and understanding their unique benefits for pet health and well-being.
Together, we can ensure that pets in Korea receive the best nutrition possible, contributing to their overall health and happiness.
