The Korean mussel, commonly known as the Korean mussel (Mytilus coruscus), is a bivalve mollusk native to the coastal waters of East Asia, particularly around the Korean Peninsula, China, and Japan. Renowned for its sweet, delicate flavor and firm texture, this species thrives in intertidal and subtidal zones, attaching itself to rocks and man-made structures. The mussel fishing and aquaculture industry is significant in South Korea, which is a leading producer, with extensive cultivation along the southern and western coasts. China is another major harvester, leveraging both wild capture and large-scale aquaculture to supply domestic and international markets. Japan also participates in Korean mussel production, though on a smaller scale compared to its neighbors. These countries have developed advanced farming techniques and sustainable management practices to ensure the continued abundance of this valuable seafood resource.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Republic of Korea | 409 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.