Shine Muscat Overview Shine Muscat is a grape variety that has recently gained immense popularity in Korea. Its unique taste, aroma, high sugar content, and seedless characteristic make it a favorite among consumers. This variety, developed in Japan, was introduced to Korea and is now recognized as a high-quality fruit in both domestic and international markets. History and Origin Shine Muscat was first developed in 1988 at Japan's Agricultural Research Center under the name 'Akitsu-21'. This variety is a hybrid of 'Hakunan' and 'Rizamatt' grapes. The name 'Shine Muscat' reflects its distinctive shine and bright color. It was introduced to Korea in the early 2000s and began to be cultivated extensively from the late 2010s. Korean Shine Muscat grapes have seen significant success in international markets, particularly in Southeast Asia and China. These seedless green grapes, known for their sweetness and high quality, have become a major export product for South Korea. The Export Since their introduction to the market, exports of Shine Muscat grapes have surged. In 2020 alone, the export volume increased dramatically, contributing to the overall growth of Korean grape exports. The total value of grape exports grew from $5.4 million in 2016 to $34.3 million by 2023​ (Korea JoongAng Daily)​. South Korea has also expanded its production area for Shine Muscat grapes significantly, almost doubling from 1,867 hectares in 2019 to 3,579 hectares in 2021​ (Fruitnet)​. Moreover, the rise in household incomes and the growing popularity of Korean culture in Southeast Asia have boosted demand for premium Korean fruits, including Shine Muscat grapes. Promotional efforts and strategic marketing have further increased their visibility and popularity in these regions​ (Korea JoongAng Daily)​. Overall, the export of Shine Muscat grapes from South Korea is a testament to the country's successful agricultural practices and strategic market positioning, making these grapes a prominent player in the global fruit market.