South Korea Food Supplement Market Size, Share, Industry, Forecast and outlook (2024-2027)

Report Overview

South Korea Food Supplement Market reached US$ 6,241.78 million in 2023 and is expected to reach US$ 8,250.05 million by 2027, growing with a CAGR of 7.45% during the forecast period 2024-2027.

The South Korean food supplement market has experienced steady growth in recent years, driven by rising health awareness and disposable incomes. Consumers increasingly seek supplements to support general health, manage specific conditions and enhance well-being. There is a growing trend towards preventive healthcare and self-care among South Korean consumers. This has led to increased demand for supplements targeting immunity, digestive health, beauty (such as collagen supplements) and cognitive function. 

South Korea has strict regulations governing food supplements, administered by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS). Regulations cover product safety, efficacy, labeling and health claims. Companies must undergo rigorous approval processes to ensure compliance before products can be marketed and sold in the country.

Consumers in South Korea often prefer supplements made from natural ingredients and free from synthetic additives or preservatives. There is a strong preference for products that align with traditional Korean medicine principles, such as herbal supplements and extracts. The market is competitive, with both domestic and international brands vying for market share. Established Korean companies often dominate the market with trusted brands, but there is also space for innovative products and niche offerings to attract health-conscious consumers.

Market Scope

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Market Drivers

Increasing Awareness and Emphasis on Preventive Healthcare 

There is a growing cultural shift towards proactive health management and preventive healthcare in South Korea. Consumers, particularly younger adults and middle-aged individuals are increasingly aware of the importance of maintaining good health through lifestyle choices, including dietary supplements.

Advances in digital technology and widespread internet access have empowered consumers to access health-related information easily. This accessibility allows individuals to educate themselves about the benefits of dietary supplements in supporting overall health and preventing disease. There is a growing consumer preference for holistic health and wellness approaches, including preventive healthcare measures like dietary supplements.

For instance, Medical Avenue Telemedicine Company stated that Korea’s emphasis on preventive medicine is a testament to its commitment to fostering a healthier society. By making comprehensive health screenings accessible to everyone, Korea is not only enhancing the quality of life for its citizens but also setting a global standard in healthcare. For those looking to take charge of their health, Korea’s medical checkup programs offer an unparalleled opportunity.

Moreover, in 2024, AIRS Medical, a pioneering force in artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics for healthcare applications stated the completion of its Series C funding round, securing $20 million from seven institutional investors in Korea. The investment, led by BSK Investment and Shinyoung Securities, underscores confidence not only in the company's flagship product, SwiftMR but also in its larger mission to revolutionize preventive healthcare through technology innovation. 

Urbanization has Led to Hectic Lifestyles and Dietary Habits 

Urbanization has led to densely populated cities like Seoul, where residents often have busy schedules and limited time for preparing nutritious meals. Food supplements provide a convenient way to supplement their diet with essential nutrients without the need for extensive meal preparation. Hectic urban lifestyles often lead to higher stress levels among individuals. As a result, there is a growing demand for supplements that claim to support stress management, mental clarity and overall well-being, catering to the psychological and emotional needs of urban dwellers.

Urban populations tend to be more health-conscious due to easier access to information, health trends and higher disposable incomes. This awareness drives the demand for supplements that promote health benefits such as immunity enhancement, detoxification and anti-aging effects. Thus, a busy lifestyle and adequate nutrient intake help to boost the market growth.

For instance, Asia News Network, 2024, stated that Korea ranked near the top 5, among the 38 member countries of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), in raw terms of its working hours per capita, with workers clocking in an average 1,901 hours annually in 2022, 149 hours more than the OECD average. When it comes to labor productivity, however, Korea fell near the bottom, at number 33.

Additionally, according to medium statistics, South Koreans are one of the most sleep-deprived people in the world. While the average of sleeping is less than 6 hours per day, Koreans doesn’t seem to miss it much. On the contrary, they usually look like they got much more sleep than us, who are used to the minimum of 7 hours of sleep per day. One of the reasons they sleep less is because they work more. 

Market Restraints

Stringent Regulatory Environment 

In South Korea, obtaining regulatory approval for new food supplements can be lengthy and arduous. For instance, a company wanting to introduce a new herbal supplement must provide extensive scientific data demonstrating safety and efficacy. This process involves submitting clinical trial results, toxicology studies and detailed manufacturing information. Such requirements can delay product launches by several months to years, impacting market entry and revenue generation.

Moreover, South Korea mandates strict labeling requirements for food supplements to ensure consumer safety and accurate information. For instance, in 2020, the Korea Food and Drug Administration (KFDA) fined several companies for misleading labeling on supplements claiming health benefits without sufficient scientific evidence. Such fines highlight the regulatory scrutiny and enforcement actions companies face if they fail to comply with labeling regulations.

These instances illustrate how the stringent regulatory environment in South Korea impacts various aspects of the food supplements market, from product approval and labeling to safety monitoring, import compliance, market entry barriers and enforcement measures. Navigating these regulatory challenges requires companies to prioritize compliance, invest in robust quality control measures and maintain transparency in their operations to succeed in this highly regulated market. 

Market Segment Analysis

The South Korea food supplement market is segmented based on ingredient, dosage, application, age and distribution channel.

Rising Consumer Awareness and Demand for Digestive Health Drives the Segment Growth 

The gastrointestinal health segment is expected to dominate the South Korean food supplements market with over 26.12% of the market during the forecast period 2024-2027. South Korean consumers are increasingly aware of the importance of gut health in maintaining overall well-being. This is largely due to the growing body of scientific research linking digestive health to immune function, mental health and chronic disease prevention. As a result, products targeting gut health such as probiotics, prebiotics and fiber supplements are seeing robust growth.

For instance, on December 26, 2023, Castoma, a new breakthrough dairy supplement that can support those suffering from stomach disease, was launched in Korea. Castoma aims to provide relief and comfort to millions of people who struggle with stomach problems such as gastritis, ulcers and reflux. Castoma, the dairy supplement, uses curcumin as its main ingredient, providing outstanding effects in supporting the treatment of stomach ulcers.

Additionally, according to the Korean Health Insurance Inspection Agency (HIRA) under the Ministry of Health and Welfare, there have been about 14,500 patients treated for peptic ulcers over the past five years, of whom 72% are men. Regarding age, patients who are 50 years old account for 26% and those who are 40 years old account for 22%. The number of patients between the ages of 40 and 50 accounts for 48%.

Furthermore, international players like Yakult Korea and other global companies have strengthened their market positions by offering gut health solutions as part of their core product portfolios. For instance, Yakult’s success is rooted in its branding of probiotics as a daily necessity rather than an occasional supplement, making probiotic consumption part of a routine wellness lifestyle.

Sustainability Analysis

The sustainability of South Korea’s food supplements market is increasingly becoming a priority for both companies and consumers, shaped by environmental, social and governance initiatives, regulatory demands and the rise in eco-conscious consumerism. The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) enforces strict regulations to ensure the safety and efficacy of supplements, which enhances consumer trust and supports long-term market growth. These regulations also encourage companies to focus on sustainable, high-quality production processes.

There is a growing demand for sustainably sourced, natural and organic ingredients. South Korean consumers are increasingly prioritizing clean-label products that have a minimal environmental impact, pushing companies to adopt eco-friendly practices in sourcing, packaging and production. 

Many companies in South Korea in the food supplements sector are adopting environmentally sustainable practices, such as reducing carbon footprints, using biodegradable packaging and ensuring responsible sourcing of ingredients. This aligns with global sustainability trends and consumer expectations. 

For instance, Amorepacific, though primarily in beauty, has expanded into health supplements and incorporated sustainable packaging solutions such as paper-based packaging and reducing the use of non-renewable resources, ensuring alignment with its broader sustainability goals. Amorepacific has set forth an ambitious goal to reduce the use of plastic in product packaging by 2030. The company aims to ensure that plastic packaging will be fully recyclable, reusable or compostable.

Moreover, in 2022, Amorepacific managed to reduce the use of new petroleum-derived plastics by 1,080 tons, which equates to a reduction of approximately 1,620tCO2e (carbon dioxide equivalent). Amorepacific expanded its refill product offerings by more than 30 items by 2023, reducing plastic use by over 50% compared to original products. This shift benefits the environment and offers consumers a more ‘cost-effective’ option by choosing refills over new purchases.

The South Korean food supplements market is increasingly aligning with sustainability trends through eco-friendly packaging, responsible ingredient sourcing, carbon neutrality efforts and innovative by-product utilization. Leading companies are spearheading this movement, ensuring the market not only meets growing consumer demands for sustainability but also secures its long-term viability.

Unmet Needs

There is a demand for food supplements supported by robust scientific evidence demonstrating safety, efficacy and health benefits. Consumers and healthcare professionals alike seek credible information and clinical studies validating the claims of supplements, particularly in areas such as immunity, cognitive health and chronic disease management.

Tailored nutrition solutions that meet individual health needs and preferences are lacking. There is an opportunity for personalized supplements based on genetic profiles, lifestyle factors and specific health conditions. Customizable formulations could address varying nutritional deficiencies and optimize health outcomes for diverse consumer demographics.

Building consumer trust through transparent labeling, ingredient sourcing and manufacturing practices remains a challenge. There is a need for clearer communication about product origins, manufacturing standards and third-party certifications that assure quality and safety. Brands that prioritize transparency are likely to gain competitive advantage in the market.

While the market offers a range of supplements targeting common health concerns like immunity and beauty, there is potential for diversification. There is a need for innovative products addressing niche health issues, such as specific dietary needs (e.g., gluten-free, lactose intolerance), unique demographics (e.g., children, elderly) and emerging health trends (e.g., gut microbiome health).

Cost can be a limiting factor for some consumers, particularly in a competitive market where premium products may be out of reach for certain demographics. Affordable options that maintain quality and efficacy could expand market reach and cater to a broader consumer base.

Market Competitive Landscape

The major global players in the South Korean market include ILDONG PHARMACEUTICAL CO., LTD., DAESANG WELLIFE CO. LTD., Nutricare Co., Ltd., LactoMason Co., Ltd., ESTHER FORMULA, Hamsoa Pharmaceutical, AMOREPACIFIC CORPORATION, Daewon Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. and among others.

By Ingredient

• Vitamins
• Botanicals
• Minerals
• Protein & Amino Acids
• Omega fatty Acids
• Probiotics
• Others

By Dosage

• Tablet
• Capsules
• Liquid
• Powder
• Chewables & Gummies
• Soft Gels
• Others

By Application

• Gastrointestinal Health
  • Gut Microbiota/Microbiome Balance
  • Digestion
  • Constipation
  • Bloating
  • Diarrhea
  • Leaky Gut
  • Inflammation
  • Others
    • Gluten sensitivity
    • Abdominal Pain
    • GERD/Helicobacter pylori
    • Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea/Post-Antibiotic Treatment
    • Gut Flora/Gut Microbiome Restoration
    • Others
• Vaginal Health
• Urinary Tract Health
  • Kidney Stones
  • UTIs
  • Others
• Oral Health
• Anti/Healthy Ageing
• Allergies/Asthma
• Bone & Joint Health
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Osteoporosis/Low Mineral Bone Density
  • Inflammation
• Brain/Mental Health
  • Sleep
  • Cognition
  • Mood
  • Depression
  • Focus
• Cardiovascular Health
• Circulation
• Energy/Fatigue Reduction
• Metabolic Syndrome/Blood Glucose
• Liver Health
• Energy
• Immunity/Respiratory Infections
• Nutrient Absorption
• Skin-Hair-Nails
  • Atopic Dermatitis & Eczema
  • Acne
  • Rosacea
  • Hair Growth/Hair Loss
  • Skin Microbiome
  • Others
• Sports
• Women’s Health
  • Fertility
  • Menopause
  • Pregnancy
  • PCOS
  • Vaginal Health & Health Vaginal Microbiome
  • Vaginal Infections (BV/VVC) 
  • Pregnancy Outcomes
  • Others
• Men’s Health & Men's Fertility
• Weight Management
• Pediatric Health
  • Colic
  • Constipation
  • Regurgitation
  • Atopic Dermatitis
  • Others
• Others

By Age

• Infant
• Children
• Adults
• Seniors

By Distribution Channel

• Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
• Pharmacies and Drug Stores
• Convenience Stores
• Online Retailers
• Other Distribution Channels

Key Developments

• In November 2023, South Korean nutricosmetics brand Vital Beautie, owned by K-beauty giant Amorepacific, launched a retinol-based dietary supplement that claims to be safe even for people sensitive to the ingredient.
• In May 2024, Major dietary supplement companies such as CJ Wellcare and CKD Health are launching new products that come in the pill-and-shot format across South Korea in what is considered an emerging trend sweeping across the country’s nutraceutical sector.

Why Purchase the Report?

• To visualize the South Korea food supplement market segmentation based on ingredient, dosage, application, age and distribution channel, as well as understand key commercial assets and players.
• Identify commercial opportunities by analyzing trends and co-development. 
• Excel data sheet with numerous data points of South Korea food supplement market-level with all segments.
• PDF report consists of a comprehensive analysis after exhaustive qualitative interviews and an in-depth study.
• Product mapping available as excel consisting of key products of all the major players.

The South Korea food supplement market report would provide approximately 39 tables, 60 figures and 210 pages.

Target Audience 2024

• Manufacturers/ Buyers
• Industry Investors/Investment Bankers
• Research Professionals
• Emerging Companies