South Korea Seaweed Market- Trend Analysis & Forecasts

South Korea Seaweed Market Overview:
South Korea is a global leader in seaweed production and trade, backed by its advanced aquaculture infrastructure and high domestic consumption. The market includes red, brown, and green seaweed types, with red seaweed dominating due to its use in nori. Strong processing capabilities, government support, and rising exports to the U.S., China, and Europe have fueled growth.
South Korea mainly exports seaweed which is fit for human consumption and exported US$ 476.61 million valued in 2024. Majorly exports were destined to Japan, Thailand, Russia, and China.
Primary Areas/ Elements of Research & Analysis
The report provides comprehensive and valuable insights into the supply and demand dynamics of the South Korea seaweed market. Below are the variables considered and analyzed in the report:
• Supply-demand trends, market growth, and trade (exports & imports)
• Market structure, conduct, and performance analysis
• Historical and forecasted market size (volume & value)
• Trade analysis, including key partners, quantities, values, and price trends
• Supply chain mapping, pricing, and regulatory framework
• Competitive landscape profiling of key players
• Factors influencing market performance, including sustainability trends

Market Growth Factors
Growth is driven by rising global demand for seaweed in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, supported by South Korea's R&D in bioplastics and biofuels. Health trends, sustainable aquaculture policies, and expansion in e-commerce channels also enhance domestic and international market access.
Market Restraints
Challenges include climate change effects on marine farming, supply seasonality, and growing competition from China and Indonesia. Regulatory complexities and labor shortages in aquaculture also constrain scalability.
Market Segmentation
The South Korea seaweed market is segmented based on type into red (nori), brown (kelp, wakame), and green seaweed. The application segments include food & beverages, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, agriculture, and bioplastics. The food industry remains the largest consumer, with increasing usage in snacks, sushi wraps, and seasonings (absorbing more than **% of the seaweed market volume in South Korea). The pharmaceutical sector is leveraging seaweed extracts for medicinal and nutraceutical applications. The cosmetics industry utilizes seaweed-based compounds in skincare formulations for their anti-aging and moisturizing properties.

Competitive Landscape
The market features strong domestic players focusing on value-added products and sustainable practices. Key companies include CJ CheilJedang, Taokaenoi, Kwangcheonkim, and Daesang Corporation. Export-oriented strategies and innovation are reshaping competition, with partnerships expanding global reach.
Outlook
The market is set for steady expansion through 2030, propelled by global health trends, tech integration (e.g., AI, IoT), and demand for eco-friendly seaweed products. Continued government backing and sustainable farming practices will support production, pricing power, and trade growth.
Scope of the Report:
• Historical Years: 2018-2023
• Base Year: 2024
• Forecast Period: 2025-2030
• Units: Value (US$ Million) and Volume (Tonnes)
• Report Coverage: Production, Consumption, Export, and Import
• Segments Covered:
By Species (Brown, Red, and Green)
By Farming Type (Wild Collection and Commercial Cultivation)
By Application (Food & Beverages, Pharmaceuticals, Cosmetics, Agriculture, and Bioplastics)
By Sales (Domestic Consumption and Exports)
• Companies Profiled: The market players include, CJ CheilJedang Corporation, Taokaenoi Food & Marketing PCL, Haepyo Co., Ltd., Wando Seaweed, Shinsegae Food, Kwangcheonkim Co., Ltd., Sempio Foods Company, Seoul Trading USA, Inc., Daesang Corporation, Dongwon F&B Co., Ltd., Chongga Kimchi Co., Ltd., Ocean Harvest Technology, Orion Corporation, Seaweed Solution Co., Ltd., Qingdao Bright Moon Seaweed Group, and Others.

Scope of the Report: It will take 4-5 business days to deliver the report upon receipt the order.