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…

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…

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…

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,…

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…

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 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…