Korea’s government is moving to improve transparency in the meat market by changing how samgyeopsal (pork belly) is labeled and sold, aiming to address consumer complaints about overly fatty cuts.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs announced new measures to reform the livestock distribution system, including a plan to separate samgyeopsal into categories based on fat content.

Under the new system, pork belly will be sold under more specific names: “ap-samgyeop” (front belly) for cuts with a balanced fat level, “don-chadol” for the fattiest section, and “dwi-samgyeop” (back belly) for leaner cuts.

The ministry expects front belly to be priced highest, reflecting consumer preference for a more moderate fat-to-meat ratio.

Officials plan to revise the relevant guidelines with the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety so the new labels can be introduced within this year.

The government will also tighten grading rules. For 1+ grade samgyeopsal, the acceptable fat ratio range will be adjusted from 22–42% to 25–40%.

Korean