Vegetables - South Korea

South Korea

Highlights

Revenue in the Vegetables market amounts to US$15.84bn in 2024. The market is expected to grow annually by 5.52% (CAGR 2024-2029).
In global comparison, most revenue is generated China (US$159bn in 2024).
In relation to total population figures, per person revenues of US$306.20 are generated in 2024.
In the Vegetables market, volume is expected to amount to 5.61bn kg by 2029. The Vegetables market is expected to show a volume growth of 3.7% in 2025.0.
The average volume per person in the Vegetables market is expected to amount to 93.1kg in 2024.

Key regions:

Market definitionIn-Scope/Out-of-scopeMarket structureReportsMethodology

The Vegetables Market in South Korea is experiencing minimal growth, influenced by factors such as changing consumer preferences towards healthier diets, increased demand for convenience in meal preparation, and competition from imported produce.

Customer preferences: Consumers in South Korea are increasingly prioritizing fresh, organic, and locally sourced vegetables, reflecting a growing awareness of health and sustainability. This trend is amplified by younger demographics, particularly millennials and Gen Z, who are more inclined to embrace plant-based diets and eco-friendly practices. Additionally, the rise of meal kits and online grocery shopping caters to the demand for convenience, while traditional markets are adapting by offering ready-to-eat vegetable options, blending cultural heritage with modern lifestyles.

Trends in the market: In South Korea, the vegetables market is experiencing a significant shift towards fresh and organic produce, driven by increasing consumer demand for health-conscious and sustainable options. This shift is particularly evident among younger generations, such as millennials and Gen Z, who are adopting plant-based diets and advocating for eco-friendly practices. Furthermore, the growth of online grocery shopping and meal kit services is reshaping purchasing habits, offering convenient access to quality vegetables. Traditional markets are also evolving, incorporating ready-to-eat vegetable offerings that blend modern convenience with cultural practices, highlighting the importance of adaptability for industry stakeholders.

Local special circumstances: In South Korea, the vegetables market is uniquely shaped by the country's diverse climate and rich agricultural heritage, which supports a wide variety of locally grown produce. The cultural emphasis on fresh ingredients in traditional Korean cuisine drives demand for seasonal vegetables, while urbanization has led to innovative vertical farming solutions in metropolitan areas. Additionally, stringent food safety regulations enhance consumer trust in quality, fostering a preference for organic options. These local factors collectively influence market dynamics, encouraging sustainability and the integration of technology in food distribution.

Underlying macroeconomic factors: The vegetables market in South Korea is significantly influenced by macroeconomic factors such as economic stability, consumer spending patterns, and government policies. Strong national economic health, reflected in GDP growth, supports higher disposable incomes, which boosts demand for fresh and organic produce. Additionally, fiscal policies promoting agricultural innovation and sustainability encourage investment in advanced farming techniques, enhancing productivity. Global trends, such as the rising awareness of health and wellness, further drive consumer preferences towards fresh vegetables. These interconnected factors shape the market landscape, fostering a robust and sustainable vegetables sector in South Korea.

Data coverage:

The data encompasses B2C enterprises. Figures are based on the total consumer spending on food, which comprises all private household spending on food that is meant for at-home consumption (out-of-home consumption is not accounted for).

Modeling approach:

Market sizes are determined through a top-down approach, building on specific predefined factors for each market segment. As a basis for evaluating markets, we use resources from the Statista platform as well as in-house market research, national statistical offices, international institutions, trade associations, companies, the trade press, and the experience of our analysts. In addition, we use relevant key market indicators and data from country-specific associations, such as GDP, consumer spending, and consumer price index. This data helps us estimate the market size for each country individually.

Forecasts:

In our forecasts, we apply diverse forecasting techniques. The selection of forecasting techniques is based on the behavior of the relevant market. For example, the exponential trend smoothing is well suited for forecasting the Food market with a projected steady growth. The main drivers are GDP per capita and consumer spending per capita.

Additional notes:

The data is modeled using current exchange rates. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war are considered at a country-specific level. The market is updated twice a year.