Korea aims to export a record $16 billion worth of foodstuff and agriculture-related products this year, the agriculture minister said Monday, as the sector is emerging as a new growth engine for exports with the global popularity of Korean culture. The target, if realized, would mark a 17.5 percent on-year spike from $13.62 billion in 2025, which marked the largest export figure for the farm and food sector in the country's history. "Despite an unfavorable trade environment, such as tariff and non-tariff measures, Korea achieved an all-time high in exports in the 'K-Food Plus' sector last year, thanks to the popularity of Korean food," Agriculture Minister Song Mi-ryung said in a press conference. "The government has set a $16 billion export target for the K-Food Plus sector in 2026," she added, vowing support for local food companies to expand their global presence, which she said will include customized export strategies for different regions. The K-Food Plus sector refers to the entire agriculture and related industries, including farm machinery and veterinary medicine. Regarding trad