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Market Overview

The South Korea health supplements market was valued at USD 5.45 billion in 2024, driven by the increasing aging population, growth of online distribution channels, and the rising demand for clean-label health supplement products. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.20% during the forecast period of 2025-2034, with the values likely to reach USD 8.60 billion by 2034. The market growth is further propelled by South Korea’s strong focus on health and wellness, especially among its elderly population, and the increasing awareness about the importance of preventive healthcare. As more consumers look for ways to stay healthy and manage lifestyle diseases, the demand for various health supplements like vitamins, minerals, and probiotics continues to rise. The increasing use of digital channels to purchase these products is also helping drive the market’s expansion.

Market Trends

One of the significant trends in the South Korea health supplements market is the growing demand for natural and organic products. Consumers are becoming more health-conscious, preferring products that are free from additives, preservatives, and artificial ingredients. This has led to an increase in the popularity of clean-label supplements, which are marketed as being more transparent and healthier. In addition, the focus on personalized health and wellness is also gaining momentum. Consumers are increasingly looking for supplements that cater to their specific health needs, such as immunity, digestion, or skin health.

The rise in online distribution channels is another key trend. E-commerce platforms are making it easier for consumers to purchase health supplements from the comfort of their homes. With the proliferation of online shopping, health supplement brands are investing in digital marketing strategies to increase visibility and attract consumers. This trend is expected to continue, with e-commerce set to play a significant role in the future growth of the health supplements market.

Market Growth

The South Korean market for health supplements is witnessing steady growth, fueled by an aging population that is increasingly turning to supplements for health maintenance. With an increasing number of elderly individuals, there is a growing demand for supplements that promote bone health, joint health, and general well-being. Additionally, the growing awareness about the importance of immunity-boosting products and weight management solutions is contributing to the expansion of the market. As consumers are becoming more proactive about their health, the demand for preventive health supplements, including vitamins, probiotics, and omega fatty acids, is on the rise.

Moreover, the demand for dietary supplements is increasingly driven by the rise in chronic diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart diseases, which have led individuals to seek products that can help mitigate these conditions. As the focus on preventive healthcare intensifies, more South Koreans are turning to health supplements to improve their overall health and prevent future illnesses.

Segmentation Analysis

By Ingredients

• Vitamins: These are among the most commonly consumed health supplements in South Korea, with products like multivitamins and individual vitamin supplements being widely popular for boosting immunity and maintaining general health.

• Botanicals: Herbal supplements are in demand for their natural healing properties, with products such as ginseng, green tea, and turmeric growing in popularity due to their perceived health benefits.

• Minerals: Essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and zinc are critical for bone health, metabolism, and immune function, driving their increased consumption.

• Protein & Amino Acids: These are particularly popular among fitness enthusiasts and the aging population looking to maintain muscle mass and overall vitality.

• Fibers & Specialty Carbohydrates: With increasing awareness about gut health, fiber supplements are becoming more popular as part of a balanced diet to aid digestion.

• Omega Fatty Acids: Omega-3 and Omega-6 supplements are commonly consumed for cardiovascular health and reducing inflammation.

• Probiotics: Probiotic supplements have gained significant attention for their benefits in improving gut health and boosting the immune system.

• Others: This category includes less common ingredients such as antioxidants and supplements for beauty, skin, and anti-aging purposes.

By Form

• Tablets: Tablets remain the most popular form of health supplements in South Korea due to their ease of consumption and long shelf life.

• Others: Health supplements are also available in other forms such as powders, soft gels, and liquids, catering to different consumer preferences and needs.

By Application

• Immunity: There is a growing demand for supplements that enhance the body’s immune system, driven by health concerns related to flu seasons and the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Fitness & Sports: Protein and amino acid supplements, along with other performance-enhancing products, are sought after by South Koreans who are actively engaged in fitness and sports activities.

• Digestive Health: Probiotics and fiber supplements are essential for supporting digestive health, a key concern for many South Koreans seeking to improve their gut health.

• Skin & Beauty: Supplements targeting skin health, anti-aging, and beauty are becoming increasingly popular, particularly among the aging population.

• General Health & Wellness: Many individuals use supplements to maintain overall health and well-being, with vitamins and minerals being the most common products in this category.

By End User

• Young Adults: Fitness enthusiasts and active individuals use supplements to enhance energy, performance, and overall health.

• Middle-aged and Seniors: With an aging population, this group primarily uses health supplements for joint health, bone health, cardiovascular health, and general wellness.

By Mode of Purchase

By Distribution Channel

• Online: E-commerce platforms have witnessed rapid growth in supplement sales, driven by convenience and easy access to a wide range of products.

• Offline: Traditional retail channels, including pharmacies, health stores, and supermarkets, continue to play an important role in supplement purchases, particularly among older consumers who prefer in-store shopping.

Supplier Landscape

Several prominent players dominate the health supplements market in South Korea, each offering a wide range of products to cater to different consumer segments. These include:

• DSM Nutritional Products AG

• Asianwhiteskin

• Biovea

• Amway Corp.

• Abbott

• Herbalife Nutrition Ltd.

• NOW Foods

• Nature’s Bounty

• DuPont de Nemours, Inc.

• Glanbia plc

These companies lead the market through product innovation, strategic partnerships, and investments in online sales channels to stay competitive. Their ability to cater to the rising demand for clean-label, organic, and personalized supplements has enabled them to maintain their positions as key players in the industry.