South Korea Spices and Seasoning Herbs Market Overview, 2028

South Korea Spices and Seasoning Herbs Market Overview, 2028

In South Korea, spices and herbs are fundamental components of Korean cuisine and are used in various forms, including fresh, dried, ground, and pickled. Some of the most commonly used herbs and spices in Korean cooking include garlic, ginger, green onions, sesame seeds, sesame oil, soy sauce, doenjang (fermented soybean paste), and gochujang (fermented red chili paste). Spices and herbs have been used for medicinal purposes in traditional Korean medicine, known as ""Hanbang."" Certain herbs are believed to have therapeutic properties and are used to promote health and wellness. For example, ginger, garlic, ginseng, and cinnamon are commonly used in Korean herbal remedies. Korean cuisine is known for its balanced flavor profiles, which include a combination of savory, sweet, spicy, and tangy tastes. Spices and herbs are carefully selected and combined to achieve this balance, resulting in dishes with complex and rich flavors. Kimchi, a traditional Korean side dish made from fermented vegetables (usually cabbage or radish) seasoned with various spices and herbs, is an integral part of Korean meals. Banchan, a selection of small side dishes, often includes seasoned vegetables, pickles, and other seasoned items, showcasing the importance of seasoning herbs in Korean cuisine. South Korea's diverse geography and climate have led to regional variations in the use of spices and herbs. Coastal regions may use more seafood-based seasonings, while mountainous areas may incorporate wild herbs and plants in their dishes.

According to the research report ""South Korea Spices & Seasoning Herbs Market Overview, 2028,"" published by Bonafide Research, the South Korea Spices & Seasoning Herbs market is expected to grow at more than 5.23% CAGR from 2023 to 2028. South Korean consumers are increasingly curious about international cuisines and flavors. As a result, there is a growing demand for a wide variety of spices and seasoning herbs used in diverse culinary traditions from around the world. Ethnic spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and paprika are becoming more popular in South Korean kitchens. The fusion of Korean and international flavors has gained popularity in recent years. Spices and seasoning herbs are creatively used in innovative dishes that combine traditional Korean elements with global influences. This trend has led to the emergence of unique flavor profiles that appeal to adventurous eaters. The popularity of cooking shows, food blogs, and social media platforms has contributed to increased culinary curiosity among South Korean consumers. They are inspired by new recipes and cooking techniques that incorporate a diverse range of spices and herbs. As plant-based diets gain traction in South Korea, there is an increasing demand for spices and herbs that enhance the flavors of vegan and vegetarian dishes. These ingredients add depth and complexity to plant-based meals.

Spices are essential ingredients in Korean cooking, used to season and flavor a wide range of dishes. Many traditional Korean dishes rely on specific spice combinations to achieve their distinct and balanced flavors. Spices have versatile applications in South Korean cuisine. They are used in marinades, rubs, sauces, soups, stews, and various other cooking methods, contributing to the rich and complex flavor profiles of Korean dishes. Spices add depth, aroma, and complexity to dishes, elevating the overall taste experience. Popular spices used in South Korean cooking include black pepper, red pepper flakes (gochugaru), garlic powder, onion powder, ginger powder, and mustard powder. South Korea's culinary landscape is continually evolving, with chefs and home cooks experimenting with new spice combinations and innovative uses of traditional spices. In addition, South Korean consumers are increasingly curious about international cuisines and flavors. This curiosity extends to exploring the use of herbs from various culinary traditions in South Korean cooking, resulting in a growing demand for herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary. The rise of plant-based diets and the increasing popularity of vegetarian and vegan lifestyles have led to a greater interest in using herbs to add depth and complexity to plant-based dishes.

Ginger is an essential ingredient in many traditional Korean dishes. It is used in various forms, including fresh, dried, and powdered, to add a warm, aromatic, and slightly spicy flavor to soups, stews, marinades, and sauces. Ginger is commonly used as a natural remedy for digestive issues, including nausea and indigestion. Ginger-infused drinks and teas are often consumed after meals to aid in digestion. South Korean chefs and home cooks are incorporating ginger in innovative ways to create new and exciting flavor combinations. Ginger-based sauces and glazes are used to enhance the taste of various dishes, including meats, seafood, and vegetables. In addition, Turmeric is renowned for its potential health benefits, particularly due to its active compound called curcumin, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. South Korean consumers are increasingly seeking functional foods with health-enhancing properties, contributing to the growing demand for turmeric. Golden milk, a beverage made with turmeric, milk (or plant-based milk), and other spices, has gained popularity in South Korea and is considered a nourishing and soothing drink.

Mint is a versatile herb that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. Its fresh and cooling flavor complements a wide range of cuisines and ingredients, making it a popular choice among South Korean consumers. The trend of fusion cuisine in South Korea has led to the incorporation of mint in innovative ways, bringing together Korean flavors with international influences. Mint-infused sauces, dressings, and marinades add a unique twist to traditional dishes. Mint-flavored snacks and desserts, such as chocolates, candies, and ice creams, are popular choices among consumers seeking a cool and refreshing treat. Mint is a popular garnish and ingredient in cocktails and mocktails, contributing to the growing trend of mixology and creative beverage offerings. In addition, Thyme is a versatile herb that can be used in a wide range of dishes. Its earthy and slightly minty flavor complements both meat and vegetable-based dishes, making it a popular choice among South Korean consumers. Thyme is often used as a seasoning for roasts and grilled meats, enhancing the flavor of the dishes and adding a delightful aroma. South Korean consumers are becoming more adventurous in their culinary choices, and thyme's unique flavor profile aligns with this trend.

South Korean cuisine traditionally includes a significant focus on meat-based dishes. Popular Korean BBQ and grilled meat dishes are central to the culinary culture, making the demand for spices and seasoning herbs to enhance these meats high. Korean BBQ, where diners cook thinly sliced meats on tabletop grills, is a significant part of South Korean dining culture. An assortment of seasonings, including marinades and rubs, are used to complement the meats during the cooking process. Spices and seasoning herbs play a crucial role in enhancing the flavor and aroma of meat and poultry products. South Korean consumers seek diverse and robust flavor options for their meat dishes, driving the demand for various spice blends and herb mixes tailored for different types of meats. The popularity of meat-based snacks and jerky in South Korea has surged in recent years, creating a demand for spiced and seasoned meat products. In addition, as more consumers cook at home, there is a growing demand for ready-to-use spice blends and seasoning herbs to enhance the flavors of homemade soups, sauces, and dressings. The popularity of Western-style soups, sauces, and dressings in South Korea has increased, contributing to the demand for a wider variety of herbs and spices to achieve authentic Western flavors.

South Korea has a vibrant and diverse foodservice industry, which includes restaurants, cafes, fast-food chains, hotels, and catering services. The demand for spices and seasoning herbs is high in this sector to cater to the wide variety of cuisines and dishes offered. Dining out and socializing in restaurants and cafes are integral parts of South Korean culture. Foodservice establishments use a range of spices and herbs to create authentic and flavorful dishes, catering to the preferences of their diverse customer base. Foodservice establishments often buy spices and herbs in larger quantities to meet the demand of their operations. Chefs and cooks in the foodservice industry have in-depth knowledge of spices and herbs and use them creatively to create signature dishes and unique culinary experiences. In addition, the growth of e-commerce and online retail platforms in South Korea has significantly contributed to the rise of the Retail segment. Online stores provide a convenient shopping experience and a vast selection of spices and herbs. Consumers are increasingly seeking natural and organic products, including spices and herbs. Retail channels offer a wide selection of organic and natural options, appealing to health-conscious consumers.

Considered in this report
• Geography: South Korea
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report
• South Korea Spices & Seasoning Herbs market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Product Type
• Spices
• Herbs

By Spices Type
• Pepper
• Ginger
• Cinnamon
• Cumin
• Turmeric
• Coriander
• Cardamom
• Cloves
• Nutmeg & mace
• Mustard Powder
• Others (Onion Powder, Allspice, angelica, anise, Asafoetida, caraway, sesame, lovage, marjoram, saffron, sorrel, star anise, spearmint, tarragon, etc.)

By Herbs Type
• Garlic
• Oregano
• Mint
• Parsley
• Rosemary
• Fennel
• Basil
• Thyme
• Other herbs (bay leaves, Sage, Savory)


By Application
• Meat & poultry products
• Snacks & convenience food
• Soups, sauces, and dressings
• Bakery & confectionery
• Frozen products
• Beverages
• Others (Pickles and Chutneys, Dips and Spreads, Health Supplements, Pet Food, Baby Food, etc.)


By Nature
• Conventional
• Organic


By Distribution Channel
• Foodservice
• Retail


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 Spices & Seasoning Herbs 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.