South Korea

In 2023, heated tobacco products in South Korea maintained double-digit retail volume and current value growth. The competition for the top spots in heated tobacco is intensifying. KT&G, Philip Morris Korea, and Rothmans Far East (BAT) are all…

Although products low in sugar are becoming more noticeable in cooking ingredients and meals, product innovation has so far been less proactive than in other packaged food categories, and consumers’ attention has not yet been captured. However, South…

Value sales of fine wines/champagne and spirits grew by 8% to total KRW657.4 billion in 2023, boosted by consumers’ appetite for experiences and enjoyment after the pandemic. Enjoying a drink with a meal at home or when relaxing remains a key pastime…

Dairy products are already known to be nutritious, as a natural source of calcium and protein, and also probiotics for yoghurt; however, innovation has continued to increase the health and wellness options available, in line with heightened interest…

In 2023, yoghurt and sour milk products is set to see growth in current value terms, mainly due to price increases across the entire dairy industry. The continued popularity of plain yoghurt, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, is expected to…

Amid the growing climate change crisis, local interest in eco-friendly practices has risen significantly, aligning with value-based consumption. To reflect this trend, players in processed meat, seafood and alternatives to meat in South Korea are…

Like analgesics, sales of cough, cold and allergy (hay fever) remedies continue to rise, benefiting from the “tripledemic” of rising COVID-19 cases, the stronger return of influenza due to greater mobility outside of the home and contact with others,…

South Korea relaxed the bulk of its COVID-19 restrictions in April-May 2022, triggering a return to pre-pandemic out-of-home lifestyles. This, in turn, helped drive volume sales in beauty and personal care categories that consumers use when going…

Sales of cider/perry remain minimal in South Korea.

Sales of Asian speciality drinks in South Korea continue to grow in 2022 as consumers look for perceived healthier drink options. In addition to the longer-term pursuit of healthier lifestyles, the pandemic encouraged local consumers to seek clear…

The packaging unit volumes of thin wall plastic containers used in shelf stable ready meals saw notable growth in 2020, with slower but still positive growth being seen in 2021. This can be attributed to the onset of the pandemic and related…

In line with the continuing home-cooking trend, the packaging unit volumes of aluminium/plastic pouches and glass jars used in cooking sauces rose notably in 2020, with further growth in 2021. However, growth slowed in the latter year as some…

The commodities country overview provides comprehensive data on production, consumption and price trends on key commodities markets. The commodities overview in South Korea covers production and consumption trends in agricultural commodities, energy…

Consumer Lifestyles offers valuable insights into key consumer attitudes and current thinking, and their impact on purchasing and consumption habits; quantifying behaviours, preferences and motivations, and aligning them with broader trends.

In 2023, South Korea’s GDP growth slowed to 1.3%, due to decreased export demand and subdued domestic demand, with the country’s economic growth underperforming the Asia Pacific average. Despite a decline in inflation, it remained above the 2% mark,…

This report visually explores everyday habits and behaviours which reflect consumers' beliefs and values, linking behavioural trends with purchase and consumption habits. 

Ulsan and Cheongju stand out as South Korea's most economically vibrant cities in South Korea. Cheongju is recognised as having the greatest potential for future economic expansion. Nevertheless, these cities will face ongoing challenges. In the…

South Korea is expected to experience a moderate increase in the number of households over 2022-2027, with single-person households continuing to dominate. In 2022, household spending was impacted by a 5.1% inflation rate, leading to higher living…

South Korea’s business environment remains attractive to foreign investors, due to its efficient government regulation and world-class infrastructure, as well as its high capacity for innovation and ICT adoption, which continues to improve on the…

South Korea has witnessed population decline over the recent years, as number of childless households continue to increase. Generation X, aged 60-75 in 2040, will continue to hold its position as the most influential consumer segment. Older cohorts…