The South Korea Foodservice Market report segments the industry into Foodservice Type (Cafes & Bars, Cloud Kitchen, Full Service Restaurants, Quick Service Restaurants), Outlet (Chained Outlets, Independent Outlets), and Location (Leisure, Lodging, Retail, Standalone, Travel). Five years of historical data and five-year forecasts are covered.

The South Korea food service market is expected to grow at a CAGR of about 4.40% in the forecast period of 2025-2034. Infrastructural advancement and the growing demand for fast food due to hectic lifestyles are expected to drive the market during the estimated time period.

South Korea food service market size is projected to exhibit a growth rate (CAGR) of 17.8% during 2025-2033. The increasing advances in technology that can enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and improve the overall customer experience, are driving the market.

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the market, along with forecasts at the country level for 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on foodservice type, outlet, and location.

The South Korea Foodservice report features an extensive regional analysis, identifying market penetration levels across major geographic areas. It highlights regional growth trends and opportunities, allowing businesses to tailor their market entry strategies and maximize growth in specific regions.

The market size of the South Korean online grocery and food services amounted to roughly ** trillion South Korean won. Food and beverages were among the most bought products among in online shopping.

In 2017, McDonald's was the leading foodservice company in South Korea, with a market share of around *** percent based on value sales. In 2018, the overall foodservice sales value in South Korea amounted to around **** billion U.S. dollars. A survey in April 2019 found that more than ** percent of respondents stated that they were eating out once every two to three days.

Independent vs Chain restaurants

South Korea’s foodservice sector has a large share of smaller, often family owned businesses. While chain franchise restaurants are expected to grow faster than independent restaurants, the sales value of independent restaurants accounted for around two thirds of the total restaurant sales value in 2018. Nevertheless, customers tend to spend more per transaction at chain restaurants than at independent restaurants.

McDonald’s in South Korea

American chain franchise McDonald’s opened their first shop in South Korea in 1988, opening their 100th store only seven years later. Nowadays, more than *** stores are operating throughout the country. Their delivery service, McDelivery, launched in 2007. The McDelivery app is one of the most downloaded and used food delivery apps in South Korea. One of McDonald’s biggest fast-food focused competitors is South Korean-based franchise Lotteria. The chain first started in Japan in 1972 and started operating in South Korea in 1979. While McDonald’s is dominant on the global market, Lotteria has been able to grow in Asian countries, such as Vietnam, Indonesia, and Cambodia.

USD 26.07 Billion in 2024; projected USD 33.65 Billion by 2033; CAGR 2.92%.

South Korea Foodservice Market size was valued at USD 115 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 494.48 Billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 20% from 2026 to 2032.

South Korea Foodservice Market: Definition/ Overview

Foodservice refers to the industry that prepares, delivers, and serves food and beverages to customers outside of their homes. It includes a wide range of places and services aimed to meet consumers' various dining needs, whether for convenience, leisure, or necessity.

The size of the Food Service in Korean Industry market was valued at USD XX Million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD XXX Million by 2032, with an expected CAGR of 5.60% during the forecast period. Recent developments include: April 2023: Shinsegae Food introduced a 100% plant-based burger called Better Burger. Instead of using animal products like milk and eggs, the burger uses substitute meat, cheese, and buns created from plant-based proteins like soybeans and cashew nuts.March 2023: Yum! Brands Inc. teamed up with a Korean private equity fund to acquire KFC Korea Co.February 2023: McDonald's Korea collaborated with NewJeans and introduced a special crispy chicken sandwich meal.. Key drivers for this market are: Growing Demand for Cocoa Butter Equivalents Among Food Manufacturers, Rising Application in Food Industry. Potential restraints include: Health Concerns Pertaining to the Excessive Consumption of Fats and Oils. Notable trends are: High demand for traditional cuisines and increased spending on dining increase the sales.

The market for health functional foods in South Korea amounted to approximately **** trillion South Korean won in 2024. It has grown significantly over the years, more than doubling the value from around **** trillion won in 2015. Health functional foods refers to specific products made by compacting elements that are beneficial to the human body into easily consumable packages. They are consumed for their promoted health benefits, such as improving eyesight, countering natural aging, and strengthening the immune system. Popularity of health functional foods Korean red ginseng products were the most popular type of health functional foods, accounting for around one third of all sales. Probiotics were also rather popular. Health functional foods have been popular among older Koreans because of the supposed health benefits, with over the majority of Koreans in their 50s and 60s saying they purchased such products in a consumer behavior survey. Certain products are especially attractive to older Koreans, such as plant extracts to maintain one’s eyesight and counter the effects of aging. During the coronavirus pandemic, it is not just older people but Koreans of all ages who are increasingly seeking out health functional foods to bolster their health. The diversity, reasonable pricing, and improved accessibility are also behind the sales growth of these products. Market for health functional foods The total sales value of the Korean market for health functional foods amounted to over **** trillion won in 2022. Just as with the market size, the sales value has increased continuously over the past five years. Domestic production of health functional foods also increased rapidly during the last few years. Of this, the majority of products were sold to Korean consumers, while only a small portion were exported. The increase in sales and market size in 2020 is most likely due to the coronavirus and consumers trying to boost their health as best as they can.

In 2023, the food market size in South Korea amounted to around ***** trillion South Korean won, increased from about ***** trillion in the previous year. Overall, the size of the food market increased throughout the years. Korean food exports worldwide  As Korean culture spills over to other countries via TV shows, music, and more, Korean cuisine also gained popularity, particularly in Asia. In line with the popularity of Korean food worldwide, the value of food exported from South Korea has drastically increased in recent years, which expanded the Korean food market size to global scale. Products that are easy to distribute and access are leading in exports, such as instant noodles, kimchi, and seasoned seaweed. Online grocery and food service trends in South Korea  As technology advances, online services are also becoming a huge trend in the grocery and food industry. Its popularity is seen in the growth of the online grocery market as well as increased transaction value of food and beverages in online sales, which both have significantly increased over the last 5 years. Quick and convenient delivery systems are chosen as the main advantages of online grocery shopping.

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Food Service Market Size 2025-2029

The food service market size is forecast to increase by USD 53709.5 billion, at a CAGR of 47.5% between 2024 and 2029.

Major Market Trends & Insights

APAC dominated the market and accounted for a 44% growth during the forecast period.
By the Service - Conventional segment was valued at USD 1173.40 billion in 2023
By the Sector - Commercial segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2023

Market Size & Forecast

Market Opportunities: USD 1.00 billion
Market Future Opportunities: USD 53709.50 billion 
CAGR : 47.5%
APAC: Largest market in 2023

Market Summary

The market continues to evolve, with significant shifts in consumer preferences and industry trends. According to recent studies, the sector is witnessing a notable increase in the demand for convenience and customization, leading to a surge in the adoption of off-premise dining options. In fact, off-premise sales are projected to account for over 50% of the total foodservice revenue by 2025, marking a substantial growth compared to the 35% share in 2020. Moreover, the snacking market within the foodservice industry is experiencing a remarkable expansion, with consumers opting for more frequent and diverse snacking occasions. This trend is particularly prominent among millennials and Gen Z, who are driving the demand for innovative, on-the-go snack solutions. Despite these positive developments, the foodservice sector faces challenges such as labor shortages and rising operational costs, which may impact profitability and growth. However, industry players are responding by adopting technology solutions, including automation and contactless ordering systems, to streamline operations and enhance the customer experience. Overall, the foodservice market's continuous evolution underscores the importance of staying informed about emerging trends and consumer preferences to capitalize on new opportunities.

What will be the Size of the Food Service Market during the forecast period?

Explore market size, adoption trends, and growth potential for food service market Request Free SampleThe market exhibits a consistent growth trajectory, with current industry performance registering at approximately 6% yearly expansion. Looking ahead, this trend is anticipated to continue, with future growth expectations hovering around 5%. Notably, the adoption of advanced technologies, such as online ordering platforms and kitchen workflow optimization solutions, is driving this growth. For instance, the integration of technology in food service operations has led to a 15% increase in order accuracy and a 10% reduction in wait times for customers. Furthermore, the implementation of inventory management software has resulted in a 12% decrease in food waste and a 7% improvement in overall operational efficiency. These figures underscore the significant impact technology is having on the food service industry, setting the stage for continued innovation and growth.

How is this Food Service Industry segmented?

The food service industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments. ServiceConventionalCentralizedReady-preparedAssembly-serveSectorCommercialNon-commercialCuisine TypeAmericanItalianAsianPrice RangeBudgetMid-rangePremiumTarget AudienceFamiliesProfessionalsStudentsGeographyNorth AmericaUSCanadaEuropeFranceGermanyItalyUKMiddle East and AfricaUAEAPACChinaIndiaJapanSouth KoreaSouth AmericaBrazilRest of World (ROW)

By Service Insights

The conventional segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

In the dynamic the market, energy efficiency solutions have gained significant traction, reducing operational costs by up to 15% for restaurants and cafeterias. Simultaneously, pest control procedures and equipment maintenance schedules ensure food safety and hygiene, maintaining a 20% reduction in pest infestations. Online ordering platforms and table management systems streamline operations, increasing revenue by 18% through improved customer experience and streamlined workflows. Revenue management strategies, such as dynamic pricing and demand forecasting, have become essential tools, contributing to a 21% increase in revenue for food service providers. Supply chain traceability and nutrition labeling requirements foster transparency and trust, with a reported 25% of consumers preferring establishments that provide detailed information about their offerings. Restaurant reservation systems, HACCP implementation, and ingredient sourcing strategies are crucial components of the food service industry, enabling efficient workflows and ensuring regulatory compliance. Food service technology, including kitchen w

Korean BBQ Restaurant Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global Korean BBQ Restaurant market size reached USD 6.2 billion in 2024, reflecting robust momentum in the hospitality and food service sector. The market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 7.8% during the forecast period, reaching a projected value of USD 12.2 billion by 2033. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing global popularity of Korean cuisine, evolving consumer dining preferences, and the proliferation of innovative restaurant formats that cater to diverse demographics. As per our comprehensive analysis, the market demonstrates strong resilience and adaptability, positioning itself for sustained expansion through 2033.

The remarkable growth trajectory of the Korean BBQ Restaurant market can be attributed to several key factors. Firstly, the global surge in interest toward Asian cuisines, particularly Korean food, has played a pivotal role in expanding the customer base for Korean BBQ establishments. The "K-culture" wave, encompassing music, dramas, and food, has fueled curiosity and demand for authentic dining experiences. Consumers are increasingly seeking interactive and communal dining formats, and Korean BBQ restaurants, with their unique grill-at-the-table concept, perfectly align with this trend. The visual and sensory appeal of the cuisine, combined with the social aspect of sharing meals, has made Korean BBQ a preferred choice for gatherings and celebrations, further driving market growth.

Another significant growth factor is the ongoing innovation within the Korean BBQ Restaurant market. Operators are continuously enhancing their offerings by introducing fusion menus, premium ingredients, and themed dining environments to differentiate themselves in a competitive landscape. The integration of technology, such as digital ordering systems, automated grills, and immersive ambiance features, is elevating the customer experience and operational efficiency. Additionally, the expansion of service models, including takeaway and delivery options, has enabled restaurants to cater to evolving consumer lifestyles and preferences, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. These innovations are not only attracting new customer segments but also fostering repeat business and customer loyalty.

The Korean BBQ Restaurant market is also benefitting from increased investments and strategic partnerships. Major players are expanding their geographical footprint through franchising, joint ventures, and partnerships with local businesses. This has facilitated the entry of Korean BBQ chains into new markets, particularly in North America, Europe, and the Middle East, where the appetite for global cuisines is on the rise. Furthermore, the market's adaptability to local tastes and dietary preferences, including the introduction of vegetarian and halal options, has broadened its appeal. These strategic initiatives, coupled with robust marketing campaigns and influencer collaborations, are amplifying brand visibility and accelerating market penetration.

From a regional perspective, Asia Pacific continues to dominate the Korean BBQ Restaurant market, accounting for the largest share in 2024. However, North America and Europe are emerging as high-growth regions, driven by urbanization, increasing disposable incomes, and a burgeoning interest in experiential dining. The Middle East & Africa and Latin America are also witnessing steady growth, supported by a rising expatriate population and growing tourism sectors. Each region presents unique opportunities and challenges, necessitating tailored strategies for market entry and expansion. The competitive landscape is characterized by a mix of established chains and independent operators, fostering a dynamic and innovative market environment.

Service Type Analysis

The Service Type segment in the Korean BBQ Restaurant market is broadly categorized into Dine-In, Takeaway, and Delivery. Dine-In remains the dominant service type, capturing a substantial share of the market in 2024. The dine-in experience is central to the Korean BBQ concept, as it allows customers to participate in the grilling process, fostering a sense of community and enjoyment. This interactive format is particularly appealing for groups, families, and corporate gatherings, contributing to higher average transaction values. The ambiance, service quality, and authenticity of the dining experience play critical roles in customer satisfaction and retention, making

South Korea Ethnic Foods Market is expected to grow during 2025-2031

The South Korea frozen food market attained a value of USD 2.07 Billion in 2024. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.70% during the forecast period of 2025-2034. By 2034, the market is expected to reach USD 3.96 Billion.

Busy urban lifestyles and increasing single-person households are driving demand for convenient, quick-to-prepare frozen meals in South Korea. As of August 2025, the number of single-person households across South Korea surpassed 10 million for the first time. Consumers seek time-saving options without compromising taste or nutrition. This trend is pushing manufacturers to innovate with ready-to-eat frozen foods like dumplings, rice bowls, and fusion dishes, making frozen food a staple in many homes.

Consumers in South Korea are increasingly health-conscious, favoring frozen foods that offer nutritional benefits, such as low calories, high protein, and natural ingredients. This shift encourages leading South Korea frozen food brands to develop frozen meals with clean labels, reduced preservatives, and functional ingredients, aligning frozen food with wellness trends and attracting diet-conscious buyers. In November 2024, Daesang Cleanwon, under its “Homes” convenience food brand, launched four frozen soup varieties, that are flash‑frozen at ‑35°C to preserve ingredient freshness and texture.

USD 2.86 Billion in 2024; projected USD 6.22 Billion by 2033; CAGR 8.87%.

Grill-Ready Korean BBQ Beef Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global Grill-Ready Korean BBQ Beef market size reached USD 2.18 billion in 2024, demonstrating robust consumer demand and a flourishing international appetite for Korean cuisine. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.9% from 2025 to 2033, with the forecasted market size projected to reach approximately USD 4.37 billion by 2033. The expansion of Korean culture worldwide, coupled with evolving consumer preferences for convenient, high-quality, and authentic international foods, continues to be a primary growth driver for this sector.

One of the most significant growth factors for the Grill-Ready Korean BBQ Beef market is the surging global popularity of Korean cuisine, often referred to as the “Korean Wave” or Hallyu. The proliferation of Korean pop culture, including K-pop music, dramas, and movies, has catalyzed interest in Korean food traditions, leading to increased demand for authentic and convenient Korean BBQ experiences at home and in restaurants. The accessibility of grill-ready products, which offer pre-marinated, pre-sliced, or specially curated beef cuts, aligns perfectly with the modern consumer’s desire for quick meal preparation without compromising on taste or authenticity. This trend is especially pronounced in urban centers where time-pressed individuals seek premium, ready-to-cook meal solutions that deliver restaurant-quality experiences in a home setting.

Another critical driver is the innovation in product offerings and packaging within the Grill-Ready Korean BBQ Beef market. Manufacturers are investing in research and development to introduce new marinades, healthier ingredient profiles, and premium beef cuts tailored to diverse consumer palates. Advances in packaging technology, such as vacuum-sealed and tray-packed options, ensure extended shelf life, freshness, and convenience, which are highly valued by both retail and foodservice customers. These innovations not only enhance the product’s appeal but also support the expansion of distribution channels, enabling broader market reach through supermarkets, specialty stores, and online platforms. The growing focus on food safety, traceability, and eco-friendly packaging further strengthens consumer trust and brand loyalty in this competitive market.

The rising trend of at-home dining and the growth of the foodservice sector are also propelling the Grill-Ready Korean BBQ Beef market forward. With the pandemic reshaping consumer habits, there has been a marked shift towards home-cooked meals and small-group gatherings, fueling demand for convenient, high-quality grill-ready products. Simultaneously, restaurants and foodservice operators are leveraging these products to streamline kitchen operations, reduce prep time, and maintain consistency in taste and quality. The expansion of e-commerce and online food delivery platforms has further facilitated consumer access to a diverse range of Korean BBQ beef options, making it easier than ever to enjoy authentic Korean flavors regardless of location. This convergence of consumer trends and industry innovation is expected to sustain strong market growth in the coming years.

Regionally, Asia Pacific remains the dominant force in the Grill-Ready Korean BBQ Beef market, accounting for the largest share in 2024 due to its deep-rooted culinary traditions and high consumption of beef-based dishes. However, North America and Europe are rapidly emerging as high-growth markets, driven by increasing multiculturalism, greater exposure to Korean cuisine, and the proliferation of Korean BBQ restaurants and retail products. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa, while still representing smaller market shares, are witnessing a gradual uptick in demand, spurred by urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and the influence of global food trends. Each region presents unique opportunities and challenges, shaped by local dietary preferences, regulatory environments, and distribution infrastructure.

Product Type Analysis

The Grill-Ready Korean BBQ Beef market is segmented by product type into marinated beef, unmarinated beef, pre-sliced beef, and beef cuts, each catering to distinct consumer needs and culinary preferences. Marinated beef dominates the segment, driven by its convenience and the authenticity it brings to the Korean BBQ experience. Pre-marinated options, featuring traditiona

In 2024, Korean restaurants made up around **** percent of all food and beverage establishments in South Korea. Coffee shops and other drinking establishments were following with a share of **** and *** percent respectively.

The global Bibimbap spicy sauce market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the increasing popularity of Korean cuisine worldwide and the rising demand for convenient and flavorful food options. While precise market size figures for 2025 are unavailable, we can estimate the market's value based on industry trends and available data. Assuming a conservative market size of $500 million in 2025 and a CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of 8%, the market is projected to reach approximately $750 million by 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors: the expanding presence of Korean restaurants globally; the increasing availability of Bibimbap spicy sauce in supermarkets and online retailers; and the rising interest in spicy and flavorful condiments amongst younger consumers. The bagged segment currently holds a larger market share compared to bottled, due to its cost-effectiveness and widespread availability. The household application segment dominates, but the food service sector (hotels and restaurants) presents significant potential for future expansion, aligning with the growing popularity of Bibimbap as a restaurant dish. Geographic distribution reveals strong growth in Asia-Pacific, particularly in countries like South Korea, China, and Japan, while North America and Europe also show promising growth potential as Korean cuisine continues to gain mainstream acceptance. However, the market faces some challenges. The relatively high price point of premium Bibimbap sauces can hinder market penetration, especially in price-sensitive regions. Furthermore, the increasing availability of substitute condiments and sauces could pose a challenge to market growth. Overcoming these obstacles will require innovative product development, effective marketing strategies targeted at diverse consumer segments, and exploring opportunities in emerging markets. Companies like B&G Foods, Premier Foods, and Unilever (Knorr) are key players, leveraging their brand recognition and distribution networks to capitalize on this growing market opportunity. The next decade will see increased competition and innovation, ultimately benefiting consumers with a wider variety of choices and product advancements in the Bibimbap spicy sauce market.

Frozen Korean BBQ Wings Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global frozen Korean BBQ wings market size reached USD 1.42 billion in 2024, reflecting robust demand across diverse consumer segments. The market is experiencing a healthy compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.1%, driven by the increasing popularity of Korean cuisine and the convenience of frozen ready-to-cook products. Based on this growth trajectory, the market is forecasted to reach USD 2.63 billion by 2033. The primary growth factor is the fusion of authentic Korean flavors with global snacking trends, leading to widespread adoption in both retail and foodservice channels.

The rising global appetite for ethnic and exotic foods is one of the most significant growth drivers for the frozen Korean BBQ wings market. As consumers become more adventurous with their food choices, Korean cuisine has gained tremendous traction, particularly among millennials and Gen Z. The unique blend of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors found in Korean BBQ wings appeals to a broad palate, making it a preferred option for both at-home consumption and social gatherings. Additionally, the increasing influence of Korean pop culture, including K-pop and K-dramas, has played a pivotal role in introducing and popularizing Korean food products in international markets. This cultural wave has encouraged food manufacturers and retailers to expand their frozen Korean BBQ wing offerings, further propelling market growth.

Another important growth factor is the shift in consumer lifestyles towards convenience-oriented food solutions. With busy schedules and a growing preference for quick meal options, frozen foods have become a staple in many households. Frozen Korean BBQ wings, in particular, offer the advantage of easy preparation without compromising on flavor or quality. Technological advancements in freezing and packaging methods have also contributed to product innovation, ensuring better texture, taste retention, and longer shelf life. These improvements have enhanced consumer confidence in frozen products, driving repeat purchases and expanding the customer base for frozen Korean BBQ wings.

The expanding distribution network is also fueling the growth of the frozen Korean BBQ wings market. Major supermarket and hypermarket chains are dedicating more shelf space to international and specialty frozen foods, making these products more accessible to a wider audience. Additionally, the rise of online grocery platforms and direct-to-consumer delivery services has further democratized access, allowing consumers to conveniently purchase frozen Korean BBQ wings from the comfort of their homes. Strategic collaborations between manufacturers and foodservice providers, such as restaurants and catering services, have also contributed to increased market penetration and visibility.

From a regional perspective, North America remains the dominant market for frozen Korean BBQ wings, accounting for the largest share in 2024. The region's strong affinity for chicken-based snacks and appetizers, coupled with the growing popularity of Korean flavors, has driven substantial sales. Asia Pacific is emerging as the fastest-growing region, supported by rising disposable incomes, urbanization, and a burgeoning middle class with a taste for global cuisines. Europe and Latin America are also witnessing steady growth, thanks to increasing cross-cultural culinary exchanges and the proliferation of specialty Asian food stores. The Middle East and Africa, while still a nascent market, present significant untapped potential, especially in urban centers with a cosmopolitan demographic.

Product Type Analysis

The frozen Korean BBQ wings market is segmented by product type into bone-in and boneless variants, each catering to distinct consumer preferences and consumption occasions. Bone-in wings are traditionally favored for their authentic eating experience, offering a juicier and more flavorful bite due to the presence of bone marrow and c