Convenience Food - South Korea
- South Korea
- Revenue in the Convenience Food Market is projected to reach US$785.90m in 2025.
- Revenue is expected to show an annual growth rate (CAGR 2025-2029) of 7.84%, resulting in a projected market volume of US$1,063.00m by 2029.
- With a projected market volume of US$33,220.00m in 2025, most revenue is generated in China.
- In the Convenience Food Market, the number of users is expected to amount to 4.4m users by 2029.
- User penetration will be 7.7% in 2025 and is expected to hit 8.9% by 2029.
- The average revenue per user (ARPU) is expected to amount to US$211.30.
Key regions: Asia, South Korea, Europe, India, Brazil
Analyst Opinion
The Convenience Food eCommerce Market in South Korea is experiencing moderate growth, fueled by the increasing demand for ready-to-eat options, busy lifestyles, and the rising popularity of online shopping. Additionally, innovations in food delivery services enhance consumer access and choice.
Customer preferences: Consumers in South Korea's Convenience Food eCommerce Market are gravitating towards healthier, locally sourced options that align with rising health consciousness and sustainable living. This shift is particularly notable among younger demographics, who prioritize organic ingredients and eco-friendly packaging. Additionally, the influence of K-food culture, propelled by global interest, is steering preferences towards traditional and fusion ready-to-eat meals. The growing integration of technology in food shopping, such as AI recommendations and personalized meal kits, further caters to busy lifestyles, enhancing convenience and satisfaction.
Trends in the market: In South Korea, the Convenience Food eCommerce Market is experiencing a surge in demand for plant-based and nutrient-dense products, driven by an increasingly health-conscious population. Consumers are leaning towards meals that incorporate traditional Korean flavors while also being mindful of sustainability, prompting brands to innovate with eco-friendly packaging. The rise of social media influencers promoting K-food is shaping preferences for both authentic and fusion dishes. Furthermore, the incorporation of AI-driven customization in meal selections is enhancing user experience, indicating a significant shift towards a more personalized and convenient food shopping journey for consumers.
Local special circumstances: In South Korea, the Convenience Food eCommerce Market thrives on a blend of rapid urbanization and a strong cultural emphasis on food quality and convenience. The densely populated cities create a high demand for easy-to-access meal solutions, while traditional Korean dietary habits foster a preference for fresh, flavorful ingredients. Additionally, regulatory support for health-conscious food initiatives encourages brands to innovate with nutritious options. The unique interplay of modern technology and rich culinary heritage shapes consumer expectations, driving the popularity of personalized meal kits and sustainable practices in food sourcing.
Underlying macroeconomic factors: The Convenience Food eCommerce Market in South Korea is significantly influenced by macroeconomic factors such as urbanization trends, consumer spending power, and shifts in lifestyle preferences. The country's robust economic performance, characterized by high GDP growth and low unemployment rates, boosts disposable income, enabling consumers to prioritize convenience in their food choices. Furthermore, the rise of digital payment systems and mobile commerce has facilitated seamless online shopping experiences. Regulatory initiatives promoting healthy eating and sustainability also encourage innovation in the sector, while global supply chain dynamics impact pricing and availability of ingredients, shaping consumer options and market competition.
Methodology
Data coverage:
Data refers to B2C enterprises. Figures are based on the sale of physical goods via a digital channel to a private end consumer. This definition encompasses purchases via desktop computers (including notebooks and laptops) as well as purchases via mobile devices (e.g., smartphones and tablets). The following are not included in the eCommerce market: digitally distributed services (see instead: eServices), digital media downloads or streams, digitally distributed goods in B2B markets, and the digital purchase or resale of used, defective, or repaired goods (reCommerce and C2C). All monetary figures refer to the annual gross revenue and do not factor in shipping costs.Modeling approach / Market size:
Market sizes are determined by a combined top-down and bottom-up approach, based on a specific rationale for each market segment. As a basis for evaluating markets, we use annual financial reports of the market-leading companies and industry associations, third-party studies and reports, survey results from our primary research (e.g., Statista Consumer Insights Global Survey), data on shopping behavior (e.g., Google Trends, Alibaba Trends), and performance factors (e.g., user penetration, price/product). Furthermore, we use relevant key market indicators and data from country-specific associations such as GDP, consumer spending, internet penetration, and population. 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 particular market. For example, the S-curve function and exponential trend smoothing are well suited for forecasting digital products and services due to the non-linear growth of technology adoption. The main drivers are GDP per capita, consumer spending per capita, internet penetration, and population.Additional Notes:
The market is updated twice per year in case market dynamics change. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is considered at a country-specific level. The impact of the Russia/Ukraine war is considered at a country-specific level.Overview
- Revenue
- Analyst Opinion
- Sales Channels
- Users
- Global Comparison
- Methodology
- Key Market Indicators