Halal Certification of Korean Food in Malaysia: The Challenges and Steps Ahead

Korean Wave or also known as 'Hallyu' in the Chinese Language, symbolises the global acceptance of the Korean cultural industries. It started in the 1990s and became a recent phenomenon all over the world. The Korean Wave also impacts the Malaysian youths. It can be seen in the Malaysians' youth followings of trends where it gradually influenced the lifestyle choices of foods, cosmetics, entertainment, and technology from the influence of Korean products. A growing demand for Korean food leads to increasing number of Korean food establishments in Malaysia. Nevertheless, only a few of the establishments have halal JAKIM certificates. Getting a halal certification from JAKIM (Malaysia's Halal authority) is necessary for business, but certain food industry players are left wondering if the effort is worth it. Therefore, this study aims to explore challenges to get the Malaysian Halal Certification for Korean food restaurants in Malaysia. After identifying the obstacles involved, this research also examines the challenges in obtaining Halal Certificates among Korean Food Entrepreneurs in Malaysia. The approach of this study involves data collection methods through literature review followed by field study through numerous interview sessions with selected Korean restaurants in Kuala Lumpur and members of Malaysian Korean Fans Club. It is found that there is now more than 60 per cent of Korean food operators that are successful in getting halal certification compared to the past. The data from this study can help the industry understand that getting halal certification is not complex, with clear cut procedures, despite many challenges the industry needs to go through.