South Korea Olive Oil Market Overview, 2030

The olive oil market in South Korea has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years, driven by increasing consumer awareness of health benefits, rising disposable incomes, and the expanding influence of international culinary trends. Traditionally, South Korean cuisine has been dominated by sesame oil, perilla oil, and soybean oil, which are widely used in everyday cooking for their strong flavors and cultural significance. However, as the country has undergone rapid globalization and dietary shifts, olive oil has emerged as a premium and health-conscious alternative. The growing popularity of Western and Mediterranean diets, particularly among younger generations and urban dwellers, has played a crucial role in promoting olive oil consumption. South Korean consumers are highly influenced by food trends, social media, and celebrity endorsements, which have significantly contributed to the perception of olive oil as a superfood with exceptional health benefits. The increasing prevalence of lifestyle diseases such as obesity, hypertension, and cardiovascular disorders has led consumers to seek healthier cooking options, with olive oil being widely recognized for its heart-friendly monounsaturated fats and antioxidant properties. This trend is particularly evident in major cities such as Seoul, Busan, and Incheon, where health-conscious consumers actively seek out organic, extra virgin, and cold-pressed olive oils for home cooking and salad dressings. Despite its higher price compared to conventional cooking oils, South Korean consumers are willing to pay a premium for quality, purity, and branding, reinforcing olive oil’s status as a desirable kitchen staple.

According to the research report ""South Korea Olive Oil Market Overview, 2030,"" published by Bonafide Research, the South Korea Olive Oil market is expected to reach a market size of more than USD 201.72 Million by 2030. The South Korean market remains heavily reliant on olive oil imports, as domestic production is virtually non-existent due to the country’s unsuitable climate for olive cultivation. Spain dominates the import market, followed by Italy, Greece, and Tunisia, each contributing a wide range of high-quality olive oils that cater to diverse consumer preferences. The government’s stringent food safety regulations and quality standards have also influenced market dynamics, ensuring that only premium-grade olive oils enter the country’s supply chain. The Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) has implemented strict labeling requirements, focusing on purity, origin, and production methods to protect consumers from counterfeit or adulterated products. Additionally, the rise of online retail and e-commerce platforms such as Coupang, Gmarket, and Naver Shopping has further expanded consumer access to imported olive oils, making it easier for buyers to compare brands, read reviews, and purchase specialty products. The growing interest in organic and sustainable food choices has also encouraged demand for organic and eco-friendly olive oil brands that emphasize ethical sourcing and environmental responsibility. Major supermarkets, department stores, and specialty grocery outlets now dedicate prominent shelf space to premium olive oils, often featuring in-store promotions and tasting events to familiarize consumers with different varieties. Olive oil is no longer considered an exotic luxury but rather an essential component of modern South Korean kitchens, with usage extending beyond Western recipes to fusion and traditional Korean dishes. The foodservice industry, including fine-dining restaurants, cafes, and bakeries, has also contributed to market expansion, as chefs and culinary professionals incorporate high-quality olive oils into gourmet dishes, dressings, and artisanal bread-making. With South Korea’s increasing focus on healthy living, transparent food sourcing, and culinary innovation, the demand for olive oil is expected to continue its upward trajectory, positioning it as a key player in the country’s evolving food landscape.

The South Korean olive oil market is segmented by type, catering to various consumer needs and culinary applications. Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) remains the most popular choice among health-conscious and gourmet consumers due to its rich flavor profile, high antioxidant content, and unrefined nature. It is commonly used for raw applications such as salad dressings, dipping sauces, and light sautéing. Given its relatively low smoke point, EVOO is not typically used for high-heat Korean cooking methods like deep frying or stir-frying, but it has found its place in modern fusion dishes and premium home cooking. Virgin olive oil, which has a slightly higher acidity level than EVOO but retains a good balance of flavor and nutrition, is another preferred option for consumers looking for affordability without compromising quality. Refined olive oil, which undergoes processing to neutralize its flavor and increase stability, is more suitable for everyday cooking and is often used in restaurants and commercial kitchens. Blended olive oils, which mix refined and virgin olive oils, offer a cost-effective alternative for bulk users while maintaining some health benefits. Flavored olive oils infused with ingredients such as garlic, chili, and truffle have also gained traction among gourmet consumers and professional chefs looking to introduce unique flavors to their dishes. Pomace olive oil, extracted using solvents from residual olive pulp, remains the most affordable option and is primarily used for large-scale cooking applications in restaurants, catering services, and industrial food production.

The end-user segmentation of South Korea’s olive oil market highlights its diverse applications across households, the foodservice industry, and non-culinary sectors. Households represent a major portion of olive oil consumption, particularly among younger and health-conscious demographics who prioritize quality and nutrition in their diets. The influence of social media, celebrity chefs, and cooking shows has encouraged more consumers to integrate olive oil into their daily routines, whether for simple cooking, homemade dressings, or gourmet meal preparations. The foodservice sector, including premium restaurants, fusion eateries, and bakeries, has also significantly contributed to market growth, with chefs increasingly incorporating olive oil into their recipes to enhance flavors and align with international culinary trends. The cosmetics and personal care industry has recognized the benefits of olive oil as a natural moisturizer and anti-aging agent, leading to its use in skincare, haircare, and beauty products. Olive oil is a key ingredient in premium soaps, creams, serums, and hair masks, particularly in the Korean beauty (K-beauty) industry, which emphasizes natural and organic formulations. Pharmaceutical companies have also integrated olive oil into medicinal and nutritional supplements, leveraging its therapeutic properties for heart health, digestion, and immune system support. Industrial applications, including soap manufacturing, aromatherapy, and premium pet food production, further contribute to the expanding market landscape. The growing versatility of olive oil across different sectors underscores its importance in South Korea’s health-conscious and innovation-driven consumer market.

The olive oil market in South Korea is also segmented by source, with conventional and organic production methods catering to distinct consumer preferences. Conventional olive oil, produced using standard agricultural practices, dominates the market due to its affordability and widespread availability. Mass-market consumers, restaurants, and food manufacturers favor this category for its cost-effectiveness and consistent supply. Organic olive oil, cultivated without synthetic chemicals, pesticides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs), has gained traction among environmentally conscious and premium consumers. South Korea’s increasing demand for organic and clean-label food products has led to a rise in organic olive oil imports, with brands highlighting sustainability, fair trade, and ethical farming practices. Certifications such as USDA Organic, EU Organic, and Korean organic labels have become key differentiators, appealing to discerning buyers willing to invest in high-quality, responsibly sourced products. As awareness of sustainable food production grows, the organic segment is expected to expand further, offering consumers more choices in an increasingly sophisticated olive oil market.

The distribution landscape for olive oil in South Korea has evolved significantly, with multiple channels catering to different consumer demographics. Supermarkets and hypermarkets remain dominant retail outlets, providing a diverse range of olive oil brands at various price points. Major retail chains, including Lotte Mart, E-Mart, and Homeplus, stock international and local olive oil brands, often running promotional campaigns and discounts to attract health-conscious buyers. The rapid growth of e-commerce has also transformed the market, allowing consumers to purchase specialty and imported olive oils with doorstep delivery. Online platforms such as Coupang, Gmarket, and Naver Shopping offer extensive product selections, competitive pricing, and customer reviews, making it easier for consumers to make informed purchasing decisions. Specialty stores, including gourmet food markets, organic retailers, and department store delicatessens, cater to premium buyers who prioritize authenticity and quality. Direct sales channels, including farm cooperatives and exclusive brand stores, provide consumers with access to freshly produced and artisanal olive oils. The foodservice industry sources bulk olive oil through wholesalers and distributors, ensuring a steady supply for restaurants, hotels, and catering businesses. As South Korean consumers continue to embrace healthier eating habits and premium food experiences, retailers are innovating their marketing strategies to enhance accessibility and appeal, solidifying olive oil’s presence in the country’s evolving food landscape.

Considered in this report
• Historic Year: 2019
• Base year: 2024
• Estimated year: 2025
• Forecast year: 2030

Aspects covered in this report
• Olive Oil Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Type
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)
• Virgin Olive Oil
• Refined Olive Oil
• Others (Blended & Flavored Oils)

By End User
• Households/Residential
• Foodservice & HoReCa
• Cosmetics & Personal Care
• Pharmaceutical Industry
• Industrial & Others(soap and detergent manufacturing, textile and leather processing, lubricants, biodiesel production, wood polishing, and premium pet food)

By Source
• Conventional
• Organic

By Distribution Channel
• Supermarkets & Hypermarkets
• Online Retail
• Convenience Stores
• Specialty Stores
• Others (Direct Sales & HoReCa)

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analyzing the government generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to agriculture industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.