IMARC Group has recently released a new research study titled “South Korea Meat Market Report by Product (Chicken, Beef, Pork, Mutton, and Others), Type (Raw, Processed), Distribution Channel (Supermarkets and Hypermarkets, Departmental Stores, Specialty Stores, Online Stores, and Others), and Region 2025-2033”, offers a detailed analysis of the market drivers, segmentation, growth opportunities, trends and competitive landscape to understand the current and future market scenarios.

South Korea Meat Market Overview

The South Korea meat market size was valued at USD 27.2 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 49.0 Billion by 2033. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.08% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2033. Growth is driven by increasing consumer demand for premium and high-quality meat products, government support for food security, expanding distribution networks, and rising popularity of convenient and precooked meat products.

Study Assumption Years

• Base Year: 2024
• Historical Year/Period: 2019-2024
• Forecast Year/Period: 2025-2033

South Korea Meat Market Key Takeaways

• Current Market Size: USD 27.2 Billion in 2024
• CAGR: 6.08%
• Forecast Period: 2025-2033
• Rising disposable incomes and changing consumer preferences are fueling demand for premium meat products like Wagyu and Hanwoo beef.
• Busy lifestyles and an increase in single-person households are boosting the popularity of convenient, ready-to-eat meat options.
• Demand for processed meat products such as marinated meats and pre-cooked sausages is increasing alongside growth in e-commerce platforms.
• Growing consumer awareness regarding environmental and health issues is encouraging the demand for sustainably and ethically produced meats.
• The COVID-19 pandemic further propelled market growth by increasing demand for easy-to-prepare meals at home.

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Market Growth Factors

The South Korea meat market growth is majorly driven by rising disposable incomes and shifting consumer preferences toward high-quality and premium meat products, such as Wagyu and Hanwoo beef. This trend reflects a consumer willingness to pay more for superior taste, texture, and nutritional benefits. Additionally, the expanding influence of Western food culture and culinary trends has increased appreciation for premium cuts and specialized meat preparations, strengthening the market.

Busy lifestyles and the growing number of single-person households contribute significantly to market expansion by increasing the demand for convenient and ready-to-eat meat products. Marinated meats, pre-cooked sausages, and ready-to-eat meals have become popular as consumers seek quick, easy-to-prepare options. The rise of e-commerce and online grocery shopping also facilitates consumer access to these products, supporting market growth.

Another important growth factor is the increasing emphasis on sustainable and ethical meat production. South Korean researchers' advances, such as growing beef cells in rice grains, highlight the move toward eco-friendly protein sources. Consumer preference is shifting towards sustainably farmed, organic, grass-fed, and free-range meat options due to environmental and health concerns. Producers are also focused on meat traceability, animal welfare, and minimizing environmental impacts, broadening market scope with alternative proteins like plant-based and lab-grown meats.

Market Segmentation

• Breakup by Product:
• Chicken: A staple meat owing to affordability, versatility, and health benefits, consumed fried, grilled, and stewed.
• Beef: Includes premium varieties like Hanwoo and imported Wagyu, sought for rich flavor and tenderness, often reserved for special occasions.
• Pork: Integral to the Korean diet, commonly used in traditional dishes such as samgyeopsal and bossam, supporting market growth.
• Mutton: Less commonly consumed but with a niche market, particularly among ethnic groups and gourmets.
• Others
• Breakup by Type:
• Raw: Fresh cuts of chicken, beef, pork, and mutton, preferred for home cooking and traditional dishes, giving consumers control over preparation.
• Processed: Includes marinated, pre-cooked, and ready-to-eat products such as sausages and deli meats, driven by convenience needs.
• Breakup by Distribution Channel:
• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets: Major channels offering diverse meat products at competitive prices with promotional activities.
• Departmental Stores: Provide upscale shopping experiences featuring premium and specialty meats, emphasizing quality and presentation.
• Specialty Stores: Focus on specific or high-end meats, offering premium, organic, and gourmet selections with personalized service.
• Online Stores: Convenient platform enabling access to a broad variety of meat products, catering to busy lifestyles and wider reach.
• Others
• Breakup by Region:
• Seoul Capital Area: The largest and most densely populated region with significant demand fueled by consumer spending and culinary diversity.
• Yeongnam (Southeastern Region): An industrial hub with strong meat demand boosted by diverse population and tourism.
• Honam (Southwestern Region): Known for agriculture and culinary traditions, steadily demanding various meat products including premium options.
• Hoseo (Central Region): Growing urbanization and middle-class drive demand for a wide range of meat products reflecting modern dietary habits.
• Others

Regional Insights

The Seoul Capital Area is the dominant region in the South Korea meat market. It is the most populous and economically vibrant area, driving substantial demand for both raw and processed meat products. High consumer spending, diverse culinary preferences, and a thriving food service industry primarily fuel this region's significant market share and steady growth.

Recent Developments & News

In May 2024, South Korea established a "regulation-free special zone" (RFSZ) to foster innovation in cultivated meat. This zone provides food tech firms regulatory exemptions, accelerating research and development in cellular agriculture projects. This initiative supports the advancement of sustainable meat production technologies within the country.

Key Players

• CJ CheilJedang Corporation
• Dongwon Home Food Co. Ltd. (Dongwon Enterprise Co. Ltd.)
• Sajowon Co. Ltd.

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