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IMARC Group has recently released a new research study titled “South Korea Seafood Market Size, Share, Trends and Forecast by Type, Form, Distribution Channel, 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 Seafood Market Overview

The South Korea seafood market size was valued at USD 4.58 Billion in 2024 and is forecast to reach USD 6.69 Billion by 2033. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.09% during the period 2025-2033. Growth is driven by strong domestic demand, cultural reliance on seafood-rich diets, advancements in aquaculture, and increasing global demand for Korean cuisine.

Study Assumption Years

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

South Korea Seafood Market Key Takeaways

• The South Korea seafood market size was valued at USD 4.58 Billion in 2024.
• The market is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 4.09% during 2025-2033.
• The forecast period is 2025-2033, with the market projected to reach USD 6.69 Billion by 2033.
• Honam (Southwestern Region) dominated the market with a share of 41.2% in 2024.
• The market growth is supported by aquaculture advancements and government initiatives promoting sustainable fishing.
• Increasing urbanization and evolving consumer patterns are expanding the ready-to-eat and value-added seafood markets.
• Robust cold chain logistics enhance supply efficiency and product availability nationwide.

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Market Growth Factors

South Korea's seafood market is propelled by robust domestic consumption and cultural dependence on seafood-based diets. Seafood holds immense gastronomical importance with staples like grilled mackerel and fermented skate widely consumed across generations. The nation's extensive coastline and sophisticated aquaculture infrastructure ensure year-round availability of diverse seafood. These customs secure consistent demand as per the market outlook. Growth is further increased by rising health-conscious consumers preferring seafood for its high protein and low fat content.

The sector benefits significantly from advancements in aquaculture and cold chain logistics. Technological improvements in these areas enhance supply chain efficiency and product freshness from coastal farms to urban centers like Seoul and Busan. The logistics market itself is forecasted to grow at a CAGR of 2.91% during 2025-2033. Additionally, e-commerce and food delivery platforms have expanded direct-to-consumer access, further boosting market demand for fresh seafood.

Government support plays a critical role in market growth through sustainability initiatives and investment in high-tech aquaculture. Policies encourage offshore fish farming, traceability, and eco-friendly harvesting to ensure long-term resource availability. The aquaculture market reached 3.3 million tons in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.04% during 2025-2033. Increasing adoption of sustainable fishing practices and eco-certification also elevate the industry's resilience and global reputation.

Market Segmentation

By Type:

• Fish: The largest segment comprising around 65.5% of the market in 2024. Fish includes species like yellowtail and sea bream that are staples of Korean cuisine, supported by aquaculture and traditional fishing.
• Shrimps: Not separately described in detail in the source.
• Others: Not separately described in detail in the source.

By Form:

• Fresh/Chilled: Not separately quantified but part of overall market.
• Frozen/Canned: Leading form segment with approximately 49.6% market share in 2024. These products offer convenience and longer shelf life, appealing to busy consumers.
• Processed: Not separately quantified but available as value-added seafood products.

By Distribution Channel:

• Off Trade: Dominates the sector with around 64.4% market share in 2024. Includes supermarkets, hypermarkets, convenience stores, and e-commerce, offering convenience and variety.
• On Trade: Not individually detailed but includes restaurant and food service sectors.

Regional Insights

Honam (Southwestern Region) holds the largest share of the South Korea seafood market at 41.2% as of 2024. This dominance is due to its vast coastline, rich marine environment in the Yellow Sea, and major ports like Mokpo and Yeosu supporting vibrant fish markets and aquaculture operations. Government investments in sustainability further enhance its leading position.

Recent Developments & News

• April 2025: The first land-based salmon farm in South Korea commenced operations using recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) technology by GS Engineering & Construction's subsidiary Eco Aquafarm.
• April 2025: Lerøy Seafood Group launched its South Korean branch, Lerøy Korea, aiming to expand its market footprint and having already introduced trout products on major online platforms.
• February 2025: Raon Bada received the first Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) certification for olive flounder (Gwangeo), marking a commitment to sustainable seafood production.
• January 2025: The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries outlined a Development Plan for the Oyster Aquaculture Industry aiming to increase production by 100,000 tons and double exports to USD 160 million by 2030.

Key Players

• Billion Food Co. Ltd.
• E & K Co. Ltd.
• Woowon Holdings Co. Ltd.
• Yurim Fishery and Distribution Co. Ltd.

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