The South Korea alcoholic beverages market reached a value of approximately USD 26.42 Billion in 2024. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.80% between 2025 and 2034, reaching a value of around USD 42.22 Billion by 2034.

In 2023, the domestic sales value of alcoholic beverages stood at approximately 5.76 trillion South Korean won. That year, the alcoholic beverage market in South Korea was led by beer, followed by soju. Those two are also often consumed together as somaek (soju + maekju(beer)). Beer market in South Korea The domestic beer industry in South Korea has been growing during the past years, and accordingly, the retail sales value of beer in the market was expected to keep on growing. Although South Koreans liked to try new sorts of beer, the import of beer recorded a new low in 2022 since 2017. Beer imports had first started to notably declined in 2019 and 2020 due to the boycott of Japanese products, which was one of the largest suppliers of beer to South Korea. Despite the openness to try foreign beer, the most preferred beer brand was a domestic one. Alcohol consumption among South Koreans Drinking alcohol plays a big part in the social life of many South Koreans. In their work-life, hoisiks (drinking parties after work) are still a common practice among most companies, but even without those meetings, alcohol consumption did not decrease. In that alcohol consumption, beer made up around 38 percent. Moreover, a survey that year found that most South Koreans preferred to drink beer at home.

In 2023, the total domestic sales value of alcoholic beverages in South Korea stood at around 5.76 trillion South Korean won. The domestic sales value of beer amounted to around 2.23 trillion South Korean won, followed by Soju with the sales value of about 1.92 trillion won.

Forecast: Alcoholic Beverages Market Size Volume in South Korea 2024 - 2028 Discover more data with ReportLinker!

The South Korean alcoholic beverages market is forecast to exceed USD 18.15 billion by 2025–30, supported by rising consumption of premium and imported alcoholic drinks.

In 2024, beer accounted for around ***** percent of the total alcoholic beverage sales value in South Korea, a slight increase from around **** percent in the previous year. The share of beer in total alcoholic beverages sales value had declined over the years. The South Korean beer market  South Korea belongs to the biggest alcohol markets in the world. The annual value of the domestic sale of alcoholic beverages has again been on the rise since its drop in 2014. Beer continues to be the most favoured type of alcohol in the country compared to traditional alcohol, wine and spirits. Despite this preference, the domestic sales value of beer in South Korea has not completely recovered from 2014. Currently, the South Korean beer market is dominated by domestic brands, with Cass of Oriental Brewery leading the market. Alcohol consumption in South Korea In South Korea, the consumption of alcohol is rather frequent. In some social and professional situations, sometimes it is even expected. Overall, the frequency of alcohol consumption has been relatively steady and more than half of Korean adults drank at least one alcoholic beverage a month. This could also be attributed to hoesik, a subculture of modern drinking in South Korea in which colleagues meet up after work to eat and drink together. The annual consumer expenditure on alcoholic beverages per capita was forecast to rise in the following years.

Forecast: Alcoholic Beverages Market Size Volume Per Capita in South Korea 2024 - 2028 Discover more data with ReportLinker!

In 2023, the total production volume of alcoholic beverages in South Korea stood at around 3.98 million tons. Beer was the most produced alcohol beverage in South Korea with the production volume of about 1.59 million tons, followed by Soju with about 1.33 million tons.

Forecast: Distilled Alcoholic Beverages Market Size Volume in South Korea 2024 - 2028 Discover more data with ReportLinker!

Forecast: Distilled Alcoholic Beverages Market Size Volume Per Capita in South Korea 2024 - 2028 Discover more data with ReportLinker!

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Alcoholic Drinks Market Size 2025-2029

The alcoholic drinks market size is forecast to increase by USD 728.9 billion, at a CAGR of 7% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing popularity of the craft alcoholic beverage segment and the rising consumption of alcoholic drinks worldwide. The craft beer and spirits industry, in particular, has seen a wave in demand due to consumers' shifting preferences towards unique, artisanal products. This trend is expected to continue, providing ample opportunities for new entrants and established players alike. However, the market also faces challenges, including the prevalence of counterfeit products, which undermines the reputation and revenue of legitimate players. Regulatory compliance and the rising costs of raw materials are additional challenges that require strategic planning and innovation to mitigate their impact on profitability.
Companies seeking to capitalize on market opportunities and navigate challenges effectively should focus on product differentiation, supply chain transparency, and regulatory compliance. Additionally, partnerships and collaborations with local distributors and retailers can help expand market reach and enhance brand visibility. The market encompasses a diverse range of products, including beer, wine, and spirits, sold through various channels such as convenience stores, specialty stores, online retailers, and direct-to-consumer sales.

What will be the Size of the Alcoholic Drinks Market during the forecast period?

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According to market research, the global alcoholic beverages market size was valued at over USD 1 trillion in 2020 and is projected to grow at a steady pace. Beer remains the largest segment, accounting for over half of the market share, with mild-lager beer being the most popular variety. Wine and spirits, including craft beer and premium and super-premium offerings of whiskey, wine, and other spirits, also contribute significantly to the market's growth.
Product innovation, consumer preferences for premium and flavored beverages, and the increasing popularity of online sales channels are key trends driving market expansion. The market's size and diversity offer opportunities for both established and new players, with continued innovation and consumer education key to success.

How is this Alcoholic Drinks Industry segmented?

The alcoholic drinks 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. Distribution ChannelLiquor storesPubs/bars and restaurantsInternet retailingTypeBeerWineSpiritsRTD pre-mixesCiderEnd-UseRetailHospitalityFood ServiceConsumer SegmentPremiumMid-RangeEconomyProduction MethodFermentedDistilledApplicationSocial ConsumptionCulinary UseMedicinal UseGeographyAPACChinaIndiaJapanSouth KoreaEuropeFranceGermanyItalyUKNorth AmericaUSCanadaSouth AmericaMiddle East and Africa

By Distribution Channel Insights

The liquor stores segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The liquor stores segment holds a significant position in The market, acting as specialized retailers catering to consumers seeking a wide array of spirits, wines, and beers. Operating in both urban and rural areas, they serve as a primary channel for procuring alcoholic beverages, offering curated selections, dedicated customer service, and a tailored shopping experience. Liquor stores adhere to specific regulations and licensing requirements, shaping their operational structures. In the market, liquor stores contribute substantially to distribution and accessibility. They provide consumers with a diverse range of product varieties, including premium products, flavored alcohol, light alcoholic beverages, and non-alcoholic drinks.

Consumer preferences for product innovation, health awareness, and natural or exotic ingredients continue to shape market trends. The alcoholic beverages market encompasses various segments, including convenience stores, specialty stores, online retailers, commercial stores, on-premises, and grocery shops. Internet retailing, craft beer, online platforms, hybrid beverages, sparkling wine, fortified wine, and premium alcoholic beverages are other notable segments. The beer market, wine market, and spirits market each exhibit unique growth dynamics, influenced by factors such as social media influence, urban areas, high-pressure jobs, and health consciousness. Alcoholic beverage manufacturers continue to innovate, offering low alcohol content and packaging formats to cater to evolving consumer preferences.

Alcoholic beverages, including flavored wine, premium alcoholic beverages, and super-premium alcoholic beverages, are popular choices for night parties and various social occasio

In 2024, around ***** percent of total alcoholic beverage sales were Soju. Soju is a traditional Korean spirit. Soju is a clear distilled spirit with and alcohol content between 16 to 53 percent. It is traditionally made from rice, wheat, or barley, but is also often produced from potatoes or sweet potatoes. South Korea produced around **** million tons of Soju in 2023. Market leadersThe market is dominated by cheaper brands that produce Soju for the masses: According to a survey, Chamisul Fresh by HiteJinro was the Soju brand respondents consumed the most, followed by Like The First Time, also often stylized as Chum Churum, by Lotte. While Soju is traditionally a clear spirit, companies started to shake up the market by producing Soju with different flavors, such as peach, apple, or grape. Soju’s popularityEven though producers recently bumped prices, Soju is still a relatively cheap alcohol. A large number of cheaper soju brands sell their spirit in green 350ml glass bottles which can be found for around 1.50 U.S. dollars in most stores. This might be one of the reasons for Soju’s popularity: Industry reports have shown that South Koreans older than 20 years consumed an average of around 1.6 bottles of Soju per week in 2016.

The Korean flavored rice wine market, valued at $521 million in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.5% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. Firstly, the rising popularity of Korean cuisine and culture globally is driving increased demand for authentic Korean alcoholic beverages, including flavored rice wines. Secondly, a growing preference for unique and sophisticated alcoholic drinks amongst younger demographics, coupled with increased disposable incomes in key markets, fuels consumption. Furthermore, innovative product development, incorporating diverse fruit flavors and modern packaging, is attracting new consumers and expanding the market appeal. The presence of established players like HiteJinro, Lotte Liquor, and Makku, alongside smaller, regional producers like Gyeongju Beopju and Andong, indicates a competitive yet dynamic market landscape. While precise regional data is unavailable, it’s reasonable to assume that strong domestic consumption, combined with export growth to regions with burgeoning interest in Korean culture, such as North America and Asia, are contributing to overall market expansion. The industry faces challenges such as fluctuating raw material prices and potential regulatory hurdles, but the overall growth trajectory remains positive. The market segmentation, though not explicitly detailed, likely includes variations in flavor profiles (fruit, herbal, etc.), pricing tiers (premium vs. budget), and distribution channels (on-premise, off-premise). The forecast period of 2025-2033 suggests significant potential for continued growth, particularly if producers leverage emerging trends like eco-friendly packaging and focus on crafting premium, high-quality products to cater to evolving consumer preferences. Successful navigation of market dynamics, focusing on both domestic and international expansion, will be crucial for sustained growth within the Korean flavored rice wine sector.

The Korean fruit rice wine market, valued at $442 million in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.8% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. Firstly, the increasing global popularity of Korean culture, encompassing food and beverages, has significantly boosted demand for unique and authentic Korean products like fruit rice wines. Secondly, the rising disposable incomes in South Korea and growing interest in health-conscious alcoholic beverages contribute to the market's upward trajectory. Consumers are increasingly seeking premium and artisanal alcoholic options, with fruit rice wines offering a sophisticated and flavorful alternative to traditional spirits. Furthermore, innovative product development, including diverse fruit flavor profiles and aesthetically pleasing packaging, caters to evolving consumer preferences and attracts a broader demographic. The presence of established players like HiteJinro, Lotte Liquor, and Makku, alongside smaller, craft producers, indicates a dynamic and competitive market landscape that further drives innovation and market expansion. However, the market faces certain challenges. Competition from established alcoholic beverage categories and the potential impact of fluctuating fruit prices and availability are key restraints. Furthermore, maintaining the authenticity of traditional production methods while scaling production to meet growing demand presents a challenge for producers. Despite these challenges, the continued growth in the global interest in Korean culture, combined with the appeal of fruit rice wine's unique flavor profiles and health benefits (relative to some other alcoholic beverages), positions this market for continued expansion over the forecast period. Successful players will need to focus on brand building, product diversification, and efficient supply chain management to capitalize on the market’s potential.

The Korean zero-sugar soju market presents a compelling investment opportunity, driven by escalating health consciousness and shifting consumer preferences. With a 2025 market size of $422 million (assuming "Value Unit million" refers to USD), this segment is poised for significant growth. While the provided CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) is missing, a reasonable estimation, considering the global trend towards healthier alcoholic beverages and the popularity of soju, could be placed between 8% and 12% for the forecast period (2025-2033). This growth is fueled by several key drivers: increasing awareness of the health risks associated with high-sugar consumption, the rising popularity of low-calorie and low-carb diets, and the innovative product development within the soju industry focusing on zero-sugar options. Furthermore, the increasing disposable incomes in South Korea and a younger generation more focused on wellness are contributing to market expansion. Competitive pressures among established players like HiteJinro, Lotte Liquor, and Muhak, alongside emerging brands, are driving innovation and affordability, further stimulating market growth. However, potential restraints include the established preference for traditional soju flavors and the potential for higher production costs associated with zero-sugar formulations. The market segmentation, while not explicitly detailed, will likely include variations in flavor profiles, packaging sizes, and target demographics. The regional data, though absent, suggests potential for expansion beyond South Korea, particularly into markets with a growing Asian-food and beverage consumer base. The historical period (2019-2024) likely shows a steadily increasing market size, laying a solid foundation for future expansion. The forecast period (2025-2033) paints a picture of continued growth, driven by ongoing product innovation, marketing efforts targeting health-conscious consumers, and expansion into new markets. The continued success of this market will depend on the ability of producers to maintain product quality, innovation, and affordability while effectively marketing the health benefits of zero-sugar soju.

Learn how South Korea’s beverage sector evolves with rising demand for functional drinks, premium water, and innovative consumer trends.

The canned alcoholic beverages market is projected to be valued at USD 32.62 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 55.72 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 5.5% during the forecast period. The industry has found itself during remarkable expansion because of the increasing convenience, portability, and selection of inventive drinks that the consumer switch seeks.

Metrics	Values
Industry Size (2025E)	USD 32.62 billion
Industry Value (2035F)	USD 55.72 billion
CAGR (2025 to 2035)	5.5%

Semi-Annual Market Update

Particular	Value CAGR
H1 (2024 to 2034)	5.1%
H2 (2024 to 2034)	5.5%
H1 (2025 to 2035)	5.3%
H2 (2025 to 2035)	5.6%

Segment-wise Analysis

Segment	Value Share (2025)
RTD Cocktails (By Product Type)	45%

Segment	Value Share (2025)
On-trade (By Distribution Channel)	50%

Country-wise Analysis

Countries	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
USA	11.5%
UK	10.2%
France	9.5%
Germany	8.7%
Italy	8.3%
South Korea	9%
Japan	9.8%
China	12.1%
Australia	9%
New Zealand	8.5%

Competitive Outlook

Company Name	Estimated Market Share (%)
Anheuser-Busch InBev	18-23%
Diageo	15-20%
Constellation Brands	12-16%
Bacardi Limited	10-14%
The Boston Beer Company	8-12%
Other Players (Combined)	30-40%

• The industry was valued at US$ 1.7 Trn in 2023
• It is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.8% from 2024 to 2032 and reach US$ 3.1 Trn by the end of 2032

Market Introduction

Attribute	Detail
Drivers	Surge in Consumption of Alcohol Among Young Adults Increase in Number of Wineries and Breweries

Regional Outlook

Attribute	Detail
Leading Region	Asia Pacific

Alcoholic Beverages Market Overview

Attribute	Detail
Market Size in 2023	US$ 1.7 Trn
Market Forecast (Value) in 2032	US$ 3.1 Trn
Growth Rate (CAGR)	6.8%
Forecast Period	2024-2032
Historical Data Available for	2019-2023
Quantitative Units	US$ Trn for Value and Million Liters for Volume
Market Analysis	It includes segment analysis as well as regional level analysis. Furthermore, qualitative analysis includes drivers, restraints, opportunities, key trends, Porter’s Five Forces Analysis, value chain analysis, and key trend analysis.
Competition Landscape	Market share analysis by company (2022) Company profiles section includes overview, product portfolio, sales footprint, key subsidiaries or distributors, strategy and recent developments, and key financials
Format	Electronic (PDF) + Excel
Market Segmentation	Product Type Beer Spirits Wine Others Packaging Glass Bottles Tins Plastic Bottles Others Sales Channel Modern Trade Specialty Stores Convenience Stores Commercial Hotels/Restaurants/Bars Online Retailers Other Retailing Formats
Regions Covered	North America Latin America Western Europe Eastern Europe East Asia South Asia Oceania Middle East & Africa
Countries Covered	U.S. Canada Mexico Brazil Chile Argentina Germany Italy France U.K. Spain BENELUX Nordic Russia Poland Hungary Balkan & Baltics India Thailand Indonesia Malaysia China Japan South Korea Australia New Zealand KSA Other GCC Countries Turkiye South Africa Other African Union
Companies Profiled	Carlsberg A/S Heineken Holding N.V. Diageo Plc. ASAHI GROUP HOLDINGS, LTD. SUNTORY HOLDINGS LIMITED Halewood Sales Brown-Forman Bacardi Limited Anheuser-Busch Companies, LLC. Bundaberg Brewed Drinks Constellation Brands, Inc. United Breweries Ltd. Others
Customization Scope	Available upon request
Pricing	Available upon request

The Korean rice wine market, valued at $693 million in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.1% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors. Firstly, a rising appreciation for traditional Korean beverages and cuisine amongst both domestic and international consumers is driving demand. The increasing popularity of Korean culture globally, fueled by K-dramas, K-pop, and Korean food trends, significantly contributes to this expansion. Secondly, innovative product development, including variations in rice type, fermentation techniques, and flavor profiles, caters to evolving consumer preferences and expands the market's appeal beyond traditional demographics. Furthermore, the strategic marketing efforts of major players like HiteJinro, Lotte Liquor, and others, focusing on premiumization and highlighting the unique heritage of Makgeolli (a type of Korean rice wine), are successfully attracting new customer segments. The market, however, faces some challenges. Competition from other alcoholic beverages, particularly imported wines and spirits, presents a constant pressure. Moreover, maintaining the authenticity and traditional production methods while adapting to modern consumer demands requires a delicate balance. The segmentation of the market is likely based on product type (e.g., Makgeolli, Takju), price point (premium vs. standard), and distribution channels (on-premise vs. off-premise). Further growth will depend on successfully navigating these challenges while capitalizing on the burgeoning interest in Korean culture and culinary experiences. The forecast period (2025-2033) suggests a continuous upward trajectory for the Korean rice wine market, driven by both domestic consumption and increasing global exports. Successful expansion into new international markets will rely on effective marketing strategies that emphasize the unique characteristics and health benefits (some varieties are lower in alcohol content than other alcoholic beverages) often associated with Korean rice wines. Moreover, continued investment in research and development to create innovative and appealing products will be crucial in maintaining competitiveness and driving further market penetration. The major players mentioned demonstrate a robust market, capable of sustained growth based on the existing market structure and consumer trends. Understanding the regional variations in consumption patterns and preferences will also be key to optimizing market strategies and achieving maximum growth potential.

The global Korean Original Soju market, valued at $1165 million in 2025, is poised for significant growth. While the provided CAGR is missing, considering the increasing popularity of Korean culture globally (K-wave) and the rising demand for premium alcoholic beverages, a conservative estimate would place the Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) between 5% and 7% for the forecast period 2025-2033. This growth is driven by several factors, including the increasing global appeal of Korean cuisine and culture, the expanding distribution networks reaching new consumer segments (particularly younger demographics), and innovative product variations such as flavored soju targeting specific preferences. The market segmentation reveals strong performance across various distribution channels, with supermarkets and hypermarkets holding a significant share, complemented by the growing contribution of online retail. Successful marketing strategies employed by key players like HiteJinro and Lotte Liquor, focusing on brand building and product diversification, are fueling market expansion. However, challenges remain. Potential restraints include fluctuating raw material prices, increasing health consciousness among consumers leading to a shift towards lower-alcohol beverages, and stringent regulations in various markets concerning alcohol sales and marketing. Despite these challenges, the strong growth trajectory, fueled by the sustained popularity of Korean culture and the strategic initiatives of key players, is expected to maintain a robust market expansion throughout the forecast period. The Asia Pacific region, particularly South Korea, China, and Japan, are expected to remain dominant, while North America and Europe exhibit increasing adoption rates, presenting significant opportunities for market penetration. The continuous innovation in flavors and product formats, catering to diverse consumer preferences, will play a crucial role in sustaining this growth.