Korean Food Industry Grapples with GMO Safety Amidst New Labeling Regulations
A growing public interest in genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and impending government mandates are driving critical discussions within the Korean food industry, as evidenced by key sessions at the 2025 Korean Food Hygiene and Safety Society Regular Academic Conference held in Jeju from November 19-21. The conference served as a platform for experts to address the scientific, social, and industrial implications of GMOs, particularly as South Korea moves toward a comprehensive GMO labeling system.
The Korea Food Industry Association (KFIA), led by Chairman Park Jin-seon, actively participated in the conference, signaling the industry’s commitment to navigating these complex issues. At the opening ceremony on November 19, the KFIA presented its 5th Korea Food Industry Association Academic Award to Professor Jiyoung Yang of Pukyong National University. The award recognized Professor Yang’s significant contributions to food hygiene and safety research and her impact on the development of the domestic food sector.
“Professor Yang’s work exemplifies the dedication to scientific rigor needed to advance the Korean food industry,” a KFIA representative stated.
A central focus of the conference was a dedicated session on November 20, titled “GMO safety: scientific verification and social and industrial value.” This session was convened in response to increasing societal concerns surrounding GMOs and the anticipated implementation of a “GMO full labeling system” as a government priority. The discussion aimed to foster a balanced understanding of the scientific evidence supporting GMO safety alongside considerations of their broader social and economic impact.
The session featured leading experts in the field, including Professor Bo-kyung Moon of Chung-Ang University, who chaired the proceedings, and speakers Professor Sang-soo Kwak of the University of Science and Technology, Professor Hae-young Kim of Kyunghee University, and Professor Ha Sang-do of Chung-Ang University. Participants explored the potential of biotechnology crops as a sustainable solution to the climate crisis, emphasizing the need for robust GMO safety evaluation and measures to build public trust.
Discussions also centered on evolving GMO-related regulations and the challenges facing the food industry as it adapts to these changes. One key takeaway was the importance of aligning policy with both scientific realities and the practical needs of the industry.
“It’s crucial to find a rational policy direction that acknowledges both the scientific facts and the industrial realities surrounding GMOs,” one analyst noted. “Continuing social controversy demands a nuanced approach.”
The 2025 academic conference, themed ‘The Science of Food Safety: Bridging Research and Application,’ provided a vital forum for collaboration between academia, government, and industry stakeholders. The event underscored a shared commitment to shaping the future of food safety in South Korea and beyond. The conference highlighted the need for continued dialogue and research to ensure a safe, sustainable, and innovative food system.
