Is It Actually Worth Importing Jicama Products from the USA to South Korea?

The Jicama Hype: Why Everyone is Talking About It in 2026

As we move through January 2026, the global health community has found a new favorite "super-root": Jicama. While it has been a staple in Mexican cuisine for centuries, its popularity in the United States has reached a fever pitch this year. Known for its crisp, apple-like texture and neutral flavor, Jicama has become the ultimate keto-friendly alternative to potatoes and flour-based snacks.

In South Korea, where health-conscious diets and low-carb lifestyles are increasingly prioritized, the demand for Jicama is skyrocketing. However, finding high-quality, diverse Jicama products locally can still be a challenge. This has led many savvy shoppers in Seoul and beyond to look toward US-based retailers to get their fix of Jicama tortillas, chips, and prebiotic powders.

Why Import Jicama Products from the USA?

The US market currently offers an unparalleled variety of Jicama-based goods. Brands like Siete and Jicama World have pioneered innovative ways to use this tuber, offering everything from grain-free wraps to high-fiber snacks. For a consumer in South Korea, importing these items ensures you are getting the latest health innovations that haven't yet hit the shelves in Lotte Mart or Emart.

To access these stores, many international shoppers rely on a reliable package forwarder. Using a service like comGateway allows you to shop at US online stores that don't typically ship internationally, providing you with a dedicated US address to collect your purchases before they are sent to your doorstep in Korea.

The Real Cost Breakdown: Is It Worth It?

When analyzing if it is actually worth importing Jicama, you have to look beyond the sticker price. A bag of Jicama chips might cost $5 in the US, but you must account for international shipping and potential taxes. However, when compared to the price of specialty health foods in premium Korean markets, bulk-buying from the US often results in a lower price per unit.

To determine if your haul is financially justified, you should always use a shipping calculator. This tool allows you to estimate shipping cost based on the weight and dimensions of your package, ensuring there are no surprises when the bill arrives. Often, consolidation—combining multiple orders into one shipment—makes the "per item" shipping cost much more affordable.

Navigating Shipping from the USA to South Korea

Logistics can be the biggest hurdle for international e-commerce. Fortunately, shipping from USA to South Korea has become incredibly streamlined in 2026. With major hubs in Incheon handling thousands of packages daily, the transit time is often faster than most people expect, sometimes taking as little as 3 to 5 business days from the US warehouse to your home.

Using a specialized forwarder ensures that your package is handled with care and that all necessary documentation for Korean customs is prepared correctly. This is particularly important for food items, which require clear labeling to pass through inspection without delays.

Understanding South Korean Customs and Import Duties

Before you place a large order, you must understand the local tax laws. South Korea has a "de minimis" threshold, meaning if your total order value (including domestic US shipping) is under 150 USD, you are generally exempt from taxes. However, if you exceed this amount, you will be liable for import duties and potentially a 10% VAT.

You might also like to check our guide on customs tax to see how different categories of food items are taxed. Staying under the limit or calculating the tax beforehand is the best way to ensure your Jicama import remains a "good deal."

Crucial Check: Prohibited Items and Quarantine Rules

This is the most critical part of importing Jicama. While processed Jicama (chips, flour, tortillas) is usually fine, importing **raw, fresh Jicama root** or seeds into South Korea is strictly regulated by the Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency. Raw tubers can carry pests or diseases that threaten local agriculture.

Before you buy, check our guide on prohibited items. You must ensure the products you choose are shelf-stable and commercially packaged. Items that fall under restricted goods may be confiscated at the border, resulting in a total loss of your investment. Stick to processed goods to be safe.

How to Start Buying Jicama Today

If you've decided that the health benefits of Jicama outweigh the logistics, here is how to start:

• Step 1: Sign up for a US address via a package forwarder.
• Step 2: Shop at US retailers like Amazon, Thrive Market, or specialized keto shops.
• Step 3: Send your items to your US suite.
• Step 4: Once they arrive, use the tools provided to check the weight and choose your shipping speed.
• Step 5: Pay the shipping fee and wait for your healthy snacks to arrive in South Korea.

In 2026, the barriers to global shopping have almost disappeared. While there is a bit of effort involved in navigating customs and shipping costs, the ability to access world-class nutrition like Jicama makes it a worthwhile endeavor for anyone serious about their health.