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IMARC Group has recently released a new research study titled “South Korea Tire Market Size, Share, Trends and Forecast by Design, End Use, Vehicle Type, Distribution Channel, Season, 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 Tire Market Overview

The South Korea tire market size was valued at USD 3,296.70 Million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 5,027.26 Million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 4.80% during the forecast period of 2025-2033. This growth is driven by strong automotive manufacturing, rising adoption of electric vehicles, and demand for high-performance and eco-friendly tires. Advancements in smart tire technologies and expanding online distribution channels further enhance market expansion.

Study Assumption Years

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

South Korea Tire Market Key Takeaways

• Current Market Size: USD 3,296.70 Million in 2024
• CAGR: 4.80% (2025-2033)
• Forecast Period: 2025-2033
• The market is primarily driven by South Korea’s robust automotive manufacturing sector with increasing motor vehicle production.
• Rising demand for replacement tires owing to an aging vehicle fleet and growing vehicle ownership enhances market growth.
• Growth in electric vehicle adoption stimulates innovation in tire design focusing on durability and energy efficiency.
• Expansion of e-commerce and digital retailing platforms improves accessibility and convenience in tire purchases.
• Technological innovation, including smart tire technologies, strengthens the market by improving vehicle safety and performance.

Sample Request Link: https://www.imarcgroup.com/south-korea-tire-market/requestsample

Market Growth Factors

The South Korea tire market is predominantly driven by the country's strong automotive manufacturing sector, which spans passenger and commercial vehicles. According to CEIC data cited, motor vehicle production increased from 3,757,049 units in December 2022 to 4,243,597 units in December 2023, indicating robust domestic demand and export growth that enhance tire production. This growth ensures consistent demand in OEM markets and supports tire manufacturers in developing innovative and high-quality products that comply with domestic and international standards.

Another significant growth factor is the rising adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), which require specialized tires to withstand higher torque and heavier battery weights while ensuring quiet operation. Market participants like Hankook Tire have secured contracts to supply EV tires, such as a $10.5 million deal for Aptera Motors’ solar electric vehicles starting 2026. Government incentives for EV adoption further stimulate demand for durable, low-rolling-resistance tires customized to EV specifications, thus expanding market opportunities in this segment.

Sustainability trends heavily influence the South Korean tire market, with manufacturers increasingly adopting eco-friendly materials and circular economy practices. A notable development is the launch of the "ion" tire, made from 45% sustainable materials, including recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET), by Hyosung Advanced Materials, SK Chemicals, and Hankook Tire. This shift is driven by environmental regulations and consumer awareness, encouraging green manufacturing techniques and innovations such as tire recycling and re-manufacturing, which collectively contribute to long-term market growth.

Market Segmentation

Analysis by Design

• Radial Market: Dominates due to superior performance, durability, and fuel efficiency; preferred for passenger cars and commercial vehicles; growth fueled by high-performance and eco-friendly tire demand and EV requirements.
• Bias Market: Niche presence for specific commercial and off-road uses emphasizing durability and cost-effectiveness; simpler construction with less ride comfort and lifespan.

Analysis by End Use

• OEM Market: Driven by automotive manufacturing and government policies; focus on quality tires meeting evolving vehicle specifications.
• Replacement Market: Fueled by growing vehicle population and aging fleet; expanded aftermarket channels and e-commerce support sales of durable and premium tires.

Analysis by Vehicle Type

• Passenger Cars: Significant share; consumers prioritize performance, comfort, and fuel efficiency; influenced by rise of electric and hybrid vehicles.
• Light Commercial Vehicles: Demand boosted by e-commerce and delivery services; focus on durability, fuel efficiency, and load capacity.
• Medium and Heavy Commercial Vehicles: Steady demand; logistics and industry sectors emphasize fuel economy and minimal maintenance.
• Two Wheelers: Moderate demand influenced by urban commuting; rising eco-friendly vehicle use increases demand.
• Three Wheelers: Minimal share; used in specific industrial and utility applications focusing on affordability and strength.
• Off-The-Road (OTR): Essential for construction, mining, and agriculture; emphasis on durability and wear resistance.

Analysis by Distribution Channel

• Offline: Dominates with trusted brands and personal consultations; includes tire shops, dealerships, and service centers.
• Online: Growing steadily with e-commerce platforms offering convenience, home delivery, and installation partnerships.

Analysis by Season

• All Season Tires: Strong presence for versatility and cost-effectiveness; suitable for urban environments.
• Winter Tires: Essential for colder regions with heavy snowfall; increasing safety awareness boosts demand.
• Summer Tires: Preferred for grip and handling in warm conditions; common among high-performance and luxury vehicle owners.

Regional Insights

The Seoul Capital Area leads the South Korea tire market due to its dense population, high vehicle ownership, and advanced infrastructure. Demand spans all vehicle categories, especially passenger and electric cars, with a focus on high-performance and premium tires. Established distribution networks and increasing emphasis on smart, eco-friendly mobility solutions further strengthen this region's market dominance.

Recent Developments & News

In April 2025, LD Carbon inaugurated a tire pyrolysis plant in Dangjin with an annual capacity of 50,000 tons of tire chips, producing 20,000 tons of recovered carbon black and 24,000 tons of pyrolysis oil, supporting sustainable tire manufacturing. In January 2025, Hankook Tire became the exclusive supplier of rally tires for WRC1, WRC2, and WRC3 categories in the 2025 FIA World Rally Championship season, with its Ventus, Dynapro, and Winter tire lines. In October 2024, Hankook Tire commenced mass production of tires with ISCC PLUS-certified carbon black derived from recycled end-of-life tires, aiming for 100% sustainable materials by 2050 to reduce carbon emissions.

Key Players

• Bridgestone Tire Sales Korea Ltd. (Bridgestone Corporation)
• Hankook Tire & Technology
• Kumho Tire Co. Inc.
• Nexen Tire Corporation

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