South Korea Alcoholic Beverages Market Size and Report | 2035

South Korea Alcoholic Beverages Market Outlook

The South Korea alcoholic beverages market reached a value of approximately USD 27.69 billion in 2025. Supported by evolving consumer preferences, premiumisation trends, and a growing interest in international beverage varieties, the market is expected to maintain steady expansion over the coming decade. It is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.80% between 2026 and 2035 to attain a value of around USD 44.25 billion by 2035. The country's vibrant drinking culture, coupled with rising disposable incomes and the growing influence of global lifestyle trends, continues to shape demand patterns across alcoholic beverage segments.

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South Korea Alcoholic Beverages Market Size and Share

South Korea represents one of the most dynamic alcoholic beverage markets in the Asia-Pacific region. The market encompasses a broad spectrum of products, including soju, beer, whisky, wine, and ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages. Among these, soju retains its dominant position due to its cultural significance and widespread affordability. Beer, particularly craft beer, has witnessed significant growth in market share, driven by consumer experimentation and the rise of microbreweries. Meanwhile, wine and imported spirits have increasingly gained traction among younger and premium-oriented consumers, boosting their share within the overall market.

Local players such as HiteJinro, Lotte Chilsung Beverage, and Oriental Brewery command a substantial portion of the market, though international brands are rapidly expanding their presence in premium and specialty categories. The market's diversified product portfolio highlights the balance between traditional consumption patterns and modern lifestyle-driven preferences.

South Korea Alcoholic Beverages Market Trends

One of the most prominent trends shaping the South Korea alcoholic beverages market is premiumisation. Consumers, particularly in urban regions, are increasingly opting for high-quality, artisanal, and imported alcoholic beverages. This shift is influenced by rising incomes, exposure to global drinking cultures, and a desire for unique taste experiences.

Additionally, there is notable growth in healthy drinking and low-alcohol trends. Products such as low-calorie beers, reduced-alcohol soju, and fruit-infused beverages have gained traction among health-conscious consumers. The RTD segment is also booming, driven by convenience, innovative flavours, and appeal to young adults.

Craft beverages-especially craft beer and craft spirits-have emerged as significant contributors to innovation within the market. The regulatory relaxation in previous years encouraging the establishment of small breweries has played a key role in this expansion.

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Drivers of Growth

A major driver of growth in the South Korea alcoholic beverages market is the evolution of consumer preferences. Younger consumers are shifting away from traditional options toward more diverse and premium offerings. This shift has encouraged manufacturers to innovate with new flavours, packaging, and product formulations.

Furthermore, the rise in social drinking culture, supported by restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues, boosts alcoholic beverage consumption. The tourism industry also contributes significantly, as international visitors increasingly explore Korean drinks such as traditional makgeolli and locally crafted spirits.

The strong distribution network, including convenience stores, supermarkets, and online alcohol delivery platforms, further supports market expansion. E-commerce, in particular, has grown rapidly, driven by digital-savvy consumers and regulatory advancements.

South Korea Alcoholic Beverages Market Segmentation

The market can be divided based on packaging type, end use and distribution channel.

Market Breakup by Packaging Type

Beer
Traditional Spirits
Whiskey
White Spirits
Wine
Rum
Tequila and Mescal
Liqueurs
Brandy and Cognac

Market Breakup by End Use

Pubs, Bars, and Restaurants
Retail

Market Breakup by Distribution Channel

Hypermarkets and Supermarkets
Convenience Stores
Speciality Stores
Department Stores
Others

Competitive Landscape

Some of the major players explored in the report by Expert Market Research are as follows:

Anheuser-Busch InBev NV
HiteJinro Co., Ltd
Heineken NV
Oriental Brewery Co.
Lotte Chilsung Beverage Co., Ltd
Casillero del Diablo
Carlsberg A/S
Jeju Beer Co., Ltd.
Beam Suntory Inc
Muhak Co Ltd
Diageo Plc
Molson Coors Beverage Company
Pernod Richard S.A.
Asahi Group Holdings Ltd
Others

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite its strong growth trajectory, the market faces several challenges. Increasing health awareness has led to more consumers moderating their alcohol intake, which may impact sales volumes for some traditional segments. Regulatory restrictions on alcohol advertising and sales also pose hurdles for market players seeking aggressive expansion.

Additionally, economic fluctuations may influence consumer spending patterns, particularly within premium product lines.

However, these challenges also pave the way for substantial opportunities. The growing demand for healthier and low-alcohol alternatives presents a promising avenue for innovation. Manufacturers investing in organic, low-sugar, and functional alcoholic beverages can capture new consumer segments.

Another key opportunity lies in the global expansion of Korean alcoholic beverages. With the global rise of K-culture, traditional beverages like soju and makgeolli are gaining international recognition, offering strong export potential.

South Korea Alcoholic Beverages Market Forecast

The South Korea alcoholic beverages market is expected to continue its upward trajectory through 2035, driven by product innovation, premiumisation, and evolving lifestyle trends. By reaching a projected value of USD 44.25 billion by 2035, the market is set to solidify its position as a major contributor to the broader food and beverage industry.

As manufacturers increasingly focus on diversification, sustainability, and consumer experience, the industry's growth outlook remains robust. The combination of traditional consumption culture and modern preferences positions South Korea as a compelling and dynamic market in the global alcoholic beverages landscape.

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