South Korea Pet Food Market Outlook
The South Korea pet food market size has witnessed considerable growth in recent years, driven by the growing number of pet owners and the rising trend of pet humanization. According to a report by Expert Market Research (EMR), The South Korea pet food market reached approximately USD 899.92 million in 2024. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.70% between 2025 and 2034, reaching a value of around USD 1,762.61 million by 2034. This growth trajectory reflects the strong demand for high-quality, nutritious pet food that caters to pets’ diverse needs, from basic nutrition to specific dietary requirements.
Pet food in South Korea has evolved from simple kibble and canned food to premium and specialized diets tailored to pets’ individual needs, including organic, grain-free, and hypoallergenic options. This shift in consumer preferences toward high-end pet products, driven by a deeper emotional connection between pets and owners, is reshaping the pet food market landscape. Additionally, growing awareness about the importance of pet nutrition and a shift toward healthier eating habits among pets are further propelling the market. As the South Korean pet food market diversifies and becomes more sophisticated, manufacturers are introducing new formulations, catering to pets’ specific health concerns such as obesity, allergies, and digestive issues.
South Korea Pet Food Market Share
The South Korea pet food market is highly segmented by product type, including dry food, wet food, snacks, and treats. Among these, dry food remains the dominant category, holding the largest market share. It is the most convenient and cost-effective option for pet owners, with an extended shelf life and ease of storage. Wet food, while accounting for a smaller share, is also growing in popularity due to its perceived premium quality and higher moisture content, which appeals to pet owners concerned with hydration and overall pet health.
The pet snack and treat segment is experiencing rapid growth, with consumers increasingly seeking out healthy alternatives for their pets. This trend reflects broader global shifts toward clean-label, natural ingredients and the desire for functional foods that offer added health benefits, such as dental care, joint support, and skin and coat enhancement. The growing number of pet owners in urban areas, particularly in cities like Seoul, is contributing to a higher demand for specialized pet food products, further expanding the market share of premium pet food offerings.
Global players such as Nestlé Purina, Mars Petcare, and Hill’s Pet Nutrition continue to hold significant shares in the South Korean market. However, local brands are also gaining ground by offering products tailored to the preferences of South Korean pet owners, often focusing on natural ingredients, innovative packaging, and health-conscious formulations. The growth of e-commerce platforms has been a crucial factor in the expansion of the market, enabling consumers to access a wider range of products and explore niche brands and specialty items that may not be available in traditional retail stores.
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Drivers of Growth
The primary drivers of the South Korean pet food market’s growth include the increasing number of pet owners, the growing humanization of pets, and rising disposable incomes. As pet ownership has become more common, particularly among younger, urban populations, there has been a notable shift toward treating pets as family members. This cultural shift has led to an increased focus on pet care, particularly in terms of nutrition and overall health. Pet owners are now more inclined to invest in premium pet food that not only meets their pets’ basic nutritional needs but also supports their long-term well-being.
The trend of pet humanization has fueled demand for high-quality, nutritious pet food, with pet owners looking for products that mirror human food trends. As a result, functional pet foods that address specific health concerns such as weight management, allergies, and gastrointestinal issues are gaining popularity. Additionally, the trend toward natural and organic ingredients in pet food has led to the rise of niche products in the market, with a growing demand for grain-free, hypoallergenic, and gluten-free options.
An increase in disposable income has also played a crucial role in the growth of the pet food market. As the South Korean economy continues to expand, more consumers are willing to spend on premium pet food products. The increasing pet population, particularly among single-person households and young professionals, further contributes to the growing demand for specialized pet food. Moreover, as more consumers adopt pets during the COVID-19 pandemic, a surge in pet ownership has translated into increased pet food consumption.
South Korea Pet Food Market Trends
Several trends are shaping the South Korean pet food market, including the rise of pet food e-commerce, increasing consumer demand for functional foods, and the growing focus on sustainability. E-commerce has become an increasingly important sales channel for pet food in South Korea, with consumers opting for the convenience of online shopping. The expansion of e-commerce platforms, such as Coupang and Gmarket, has made it easier for pet owners to purchase a wide range of pet food products, including international and niche brands. Furthermore, subscription-based pet food delivery services have also gained popularity, offering convenience, personalized options, and competitive pricing for regular pet food delivery.
The growing focus on functional pet foods is another key trend. Pet owners are increasingly seeking products that offer additional benefits, such as joint health, dental care, and immune system support. Functional treats and supplements are in high demand, as owners look for products that can help their pets lead healthier, longer lives. Additionally, natural, clean-label products that are free from artificial additives, preservatives, and fillers are becoming a preferred choice for health-conscious pet owners.
Sustainability is another trend shaping the market, with increasing consumer preference for environmentally friendly packaging and ethically sourced ingredients. Many pet food brands are adopting sustainable practices, such as using recyclable packaging, sourcing ingredients from responsible suppliers, and reducing food waste. As environmental concerns grow, pet owners are becoming more aware of the environmental impact of their pet food choices, driving companies to adopt greener production practices and offer more sustainable options.
South Korea Pet Food Market Segmentation
The market can be divided based on Pet Type, Product Type, Pricing Type, Ingredient Type and Distribution Channel.
Market Breakup by Pet Type
- Dog Food
- Cat Food
- Others
Market Breakup by Product Type
- Dry Pet Food
- Wet and Canned Pet Food
- Snacks and Treats
Market Breakup by Pricing Type
- Mass Products
- Premium Products
Market Breakup by Ingredient Type
- Animal Derived
- Plant Derived
Market Breakup by Distribution Channel
- Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
- Speciality Stores
- Online Stores
- Others
Challenges and Opportunities
While the South Korean pet food market is thriving, it is not without its challenges. One of the key challenges is the rising competition in the market. With the increasing number of local and international brands vying for market share, differentiation is becoming essential for companies looking to maintain their position. Brands need to continuously innovate to meet evolving consumer demands, especially with the growing interest in natural, organic, and functional pet foods. Additionally, price sensitivity remains a challenge for certain segments of the market, with consumers looking for affordable pet food options amid rising costs.
Another challenge is the potential regulatory changes surrounding pet food safety and quality. As the South Korean pet food market becomes more sophisticated, stricter regulations regarding ingredients, labeling, and food safety standards may be implemented. Manufacturers will need to ensure compliance with these regulations, which may increase production costs and impact the overall price of pet food.
Despite these challenges, the South Korean pet food market presents significant opportunities. The growing interest in premium and functional pet foods provides an avenue for brands to introduce new, innovative products. Furthermore, the increasing demand for natural, organic, and sustainable pet food creates an opportunity for companies to develop new product lines that cater to health-conscious and environmentally aware pet owners. Additionally, expanding e-commerce and direct-to-consumer platforms offer significant growth potential, enabling brands to reach a wider audience and cater to the growing trend of online shopping.
Competitive Landscape
- Mars Inc.
- Nestlé SA
- Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc.
- Unicharm Corporation
- Cargill, Incorporated
- Happy Dream Company Co. Ltd.
- ATBIO
- Bowwow Korea Co., Ltd
- Others
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