The South Korea market for pulp and paper is expected to reach a value of more than USD 13.92 Billion in 2034. The South Korea pulp and paper market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.20% between 2025 and 2034. The growing consumer awareness regarding eco-friendly products and packaging is the key factor propelling the market growth.

The South Korean pulp and paper packaging market, valued at approximately $XX million in 2025, exhibits a steady growth trajectory, projected to expand at a CAGR of 3.25% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is primarily driven by the burgeoning food and beverage sector, coupled with increasing demand from healthcare and personal care industries. The rising consumer preference for convenient and sustainable packaging solutions further fuels market expansion. Folding cartons and corrugated boxes constitute the dominant product segments, catering to a wide range of applications. However, challenges persist, including fluctuating raw material prices and environmental concerns related to waste management. Key players like Tetra Laval Group, International Paper Company, and Rengo Co Ltd are strategically positioning themselves to capitalize on these opportunities, focusing on innovation and sustainability to maintain a competitive edge. The market's segmentation by end-user industries presents distinct growth avenues, with the food and beverage sector showing significant potential due to rising consumption and changing lifestyles. Further growth drivers include the increasing e-commerce penetration in South Korea, boosting demand for robust and protective packaging solutions for online deliveries. Looking ahead, the South Korean pulp and paper packaging market is poised for continued expansion, driven by a combination of economic growth, evolving consumer preferences, and technological advancements in packaging design and manufacturing processes. However, players must navigate the challenges presented by material cost volatility and the growing emphasis on eco-friendly alternatives. Strategic partnerships, investments in research and development, and a focus on sustainable packaging solutions will be critical for companies seeking sustainable growth in this dynamic market. Specific regional data within South Korea might reveal further nuances in market performance, potentially highlighting localized opportunities or challenges. Recent developments include: October 2022: Nestle Confectionery, a food and beverage firm, updated the packaging for its Quality Street and KitKat brands to be more environmentally friendly. Paper wrapping for Quality Street and KitKat is now available from Nestle. The firm will switch out the dual foil and cellulose used to wrap their twist-wrapped candies with recyclable, FSC-certified paper wrappers. Nestlé will introduce the packaging for KitKat's two-finger items this month to roll it out across the complete line by 2024., January 2022: Hansol EB (Eco Barrier), a flexible packaging alternative to plastic film and aluminum foil, was developed by Korea's prominent paper manufacturer, Hansol Paper. Using coating technology exclusive to Hansol Paper, Hansol EB produces a barrier layer on base paper that has been prepared. Due to its capacity to maintain contents intact due to its high-barrier qualities, it is superior to current paper packaging materials.. Key drivers for this market are: E-Commerce to Drive the Market Growth, Growing Consumer Awareness on Paper Packaging. Potential restraints include: E-Commerce to Drive the Market Growth, Growing Consumer Awareness on Paper Packaging. Notable trends are: E-Commerce to Drive the Market Growth.

[Online Quarterly Update] South Korea Pulp & Paper Chemical demand stood at 95 Thousand Tonnes in 2020 and is forecast to reach 157.92 Thousand Tonnes by 2030, growing at a healthy CAGR of 4.92% until 2030.

The sales of molded fiber pulp packaging in Korea, valued at US$ 470.7 million in 2022, are expected to increase to US$ 499.7 million in 2023. Over the next decade, the adoption of molded fiber pulp packaging in the country is forecasted to surge at a promising 6.1% CAGR. The analysis also predicts a potential net revenue of around US$ 902.4 million from the sales of molded fiber pulp packaging by 2033.

Category-wise insights

Scope of the Report

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Specialty Paper Market Size 2025-2029

The specialty paper market size is forecast to increase by USD 13.78 billion at a CAGR of 5% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the shifting consumer preferences in emerging economies towards premium and convenient packaging solutions. This trend is further fueled by the advent of smart packaging, which integrates advanced technology into paper-based products, enhancing their functionality and appeal. However, the market faces challenges as well. The volatility in prices of raw materials, such as pulp and chemicals, poses a significant risk to the profitability of specialty paper manufacturers.
To capitalize on the market opportunities and navigate challenges, specialty paper manufacturers must focus on innovation, cost optimization, and sustainable production methods. By addressing these factors, they can cater to evolving consumer demands and ensure long-term success in the dynamic market. Additionally, the rise of e-commerce has led to a demand for lightweight and customizable packaging solutions. Effective supply chain management and strategic sourcing of raw materials are essential for companies to mitigate these price fluctuations and maintain competitiveness. 

What will be the Size of the Specialty Paper Market during the forecast period?

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The market for specialty papers continues to evolve, driven by the diverse applications across various sectors. Paper grammage control and storage conditions are crucial factors in ensuring product consistency and quality. Paper sizing chemistry and testing standards enable optimal paper performance, while finishing equipment enhances the final product's appearance. Paper waste management and burst strength assessment are essential for sustainability and efficiency. Paper sheet formation, defect detection, and fiber modification contribute to improved product durability and functionality. Sustainable paper production methods and pulping chemicals reduce environmental impact, aligning with industry regulations. Paper converting processes and printability assessment cater to specific client needs, while coating formulations and drying techniques optimize paper performance.

Tensile strength, caliper measurement, and grade selection ensure product suitability for various applications. Roll handling and machine optimization streamline production processes, and coating additives and folding endurance enhance product functionality. The paper industry anticipates a 3% annual growth rate, reflecting the continuous innovation and dynamic nature of this market. For instance, a leading packaging company reported a 15% increase in sales due to the adoption of advanced paper coating formulations, resulting in superior product protection and customer satisfaction. Smart packaging is an innovative technology in the realm of food packaging, offering functions beyond the conventional inert and passive packaging.

How is this Specialty Paper Industry segmented?

The specialty paper industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Application

  Packaging and labelling
  Printing and writing
  Industrial
  Building and construction
  Others


Type

  Decor
  Packaging
  Printing
  Release liner paper
  Others


Raw Material

  Pulp
  Fillers and binders
  Additives
  Others


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    UK


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Application Insights

The Packaging and labelling segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. Specialty paper plays a pivotal role in packaging and labeling, enhancing product appeal and providing essential functionalities. In the retail sector, its usage is prevalent, particularly for food products. Brightness standards and opacity levels ensure product attractiveness, while tear resistance and dimensional stability maintain product integrity. Coating techniques, such as surface sizing and paper finish applications, offer protection and enhance print quality. Carbonless paper technology and security features cater to specific industries' needs. The paper industry anticipates significant growth, with estimates suggesting a 5% annual expansion. For instance, the demand for high-opacity paper in printing applications has risen due to its superior ink coverage and vibrant colors. Food and beverage packaging is a significant segment of the paper packaging market.

Paper porosi

Asia dominated the global pulp, paper, and paperboard industry in 2024. Over ** percent of the paper companies in the world were located in India, China (including Taiwan), Vietnam, or South Korea.

In 2023, overseas purchases of moulded or pressed articles of paper pulp were finally on the rise to reach 2.7K tons for the first time since 2020, thus ending a two-year declining trend.

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Pulp Market Size 2025-2029

The pulp market size is forecast to increase by USD 43.2 billion, at a CAGR of 3.8% between 2024 and 2029. The market is driven by the increasing consumption of chemical wood pulp due to its widespread usage in various industries, including the paper and textiles industries.

Major Market Trends & Insights

North America dominated the market and contributed 32% to the growth during the forecast period.
The market is expected to grow significantly in APAC region as well over the forecast period.
Based on the Application, the printing and writing paper segment led the market and was valued at USD 65.30 billion of the global revenue in 2023.
Based on the Grade type, the chemical pulp segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2023.

Market Size & Forecast

Market Opportunities: USD 34.76 Billion
Future Opportunities: USD 41.21 Billion
CAGR (2024-2029): 3.8%
North America: Largest market in 2023

A notable trend in the market is the rising use of fluff pulp, which offers enhanced absorbency and improved product quality in hygiene applications. However, high production costs pose a significant challenge to market participants. Producers must navigate these costs, which include raw materials, energy, and labor, to maintain profitability and competitiveness. To capitalize on opportunities, companies should focus on optimizing production processes, exploring alternative raw materials, and expanding their product offerings to cater to diverse industry demands. Effective cost management and innovation will be essential for market success in the face of production challenges.

What will be the Size of the Pulp Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
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The market continues to evolve, driven by advancements in technology and the ever-changing demands of various sectors. The Kraft pulping process, a popular method for producing pulp from wood chips, has seen significant improvements in lignin content reduction, enhancing fiber strength properties and energy efficiency. Sulfite pulping process, another significant process, is undergoing automation, leading to increased paper machine speed and process control optimization. Wood chip handling and pulp stock preparation have become increasingly crucial, with a focus on wastewater treatment and black liquor recovery. The chemical pulping process, a key contributor to the industry, is experiencing a shift towards chlorine dioxide bleaching and hydrogen peroxide bleaching, reducing bleaching chemical usage and improving paper quality.

Fiber length measurement and pulp drying systems are essential components of the sheet formation process, ensuring paper strength testing, pulp density control, and pulp consistency. Pulp yield optimization and pulp consistency control are critical quality control parameters, with pulp viscosity measurement playing a vital role in the overall process. One notable example of market dynamism is the implementation of oxygen delignification in the pulp refining process, resulting in a 15% increase in pulp yield. The industry anticipates a 3% annual growth rate in the coming years, reflecting the continuous unfolding of market activities and evolving patterns.

How is this Pulp Industry segmented?

The pulp 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.

Application

  Printing and writing paper
  Tissue paper
  Specialty paper
  Packaging paper
  Others


Grade Type

  Chemical pulp
  Mechanical and semi-chemical pulp
  Non-wood pulp


End-User

  Paper & Board
  Packaging
  Textiles
  Personal Care


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Italy
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    Egypt
    KSA
    Oman
    UAE


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan


  South America

    Argentina
    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Application Insights

The printing and writing paper segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The segment was valued at USD 65.30 billion in 2023. It continued to the largest segment at a CAGR of 3.06%.

In the market, various processes such as kraft pulping and sulfite pulping are utilized to produce pulp from wood chips. Kraft pulping reduces lignin content, enhancing fiber strength properties and energy efficiency. Sulfite pulping, on the other hand, yields pulp with superior brightness and shorter fiber length. Process automation systems play a crucial role in optimizing production, with the mechanical pulping process enabling higher paper machine speeds. Chemical pulping proc

Statistics illustrates market overview of filter blocks, slabs and plates of paper pulp in Democratic People's Republic of Korea from 2007 to 2024.

In 2024, the South Korean paper pulp moulded articles market increased by 15% to $360M, rising for the third year in a row after three years of decline. In general, the total consumption indicated a perceptible expansion from 2012 to 2024: its value increased at an average annual rate of +3.5% over the last twelve-year period. The trend pattern, however, indicated some noticeable fluctuations being recorded throughout the analyzed period.

Product Market size is rising upward in the past few years And it is estimated that the market will grow significantly in the forecasted period

South Korea Loans: DC: Mfg: Pulp, Paper & Paper Products data was reported at 6,820.400 KRW bn in Dec 2019. This records an increase from the previous number of 6,715.300 KRW bn for Sep 2019. South Korea Loans: DC: Mfg: Pulp, Paper & Paper Products data is updated quarterly, averaging 5,908.600 KRW bn from Mar 2008 (Median) to Dec 2019, with 48 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 7,182.000 KRW bn in Sep 2017 and a record low of 4,197.200 KRW bn in Mar 2008. South Korea Loans: DC: Mfg: Pulp, Paper & Paper Products data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by The Bank of Korea. The data is categorized under Global Database’s South Korea – Table KR.KB015: Loans and Discounts: Depository Corporations: by Industry Classification: 10th Revision.

product market has been steadily increasing over recent years, and forecasts suggest a substantial growth trajectory in the upcoming period.

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Specialty Pulp And Paper Chemicals Market Size 2025-2029

The specialty pulp and paper chemicals market size is forecast to increase by USD 6.88 billion, at a CAGR of 4.7% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is driven by the increasing demand for specialty papers, particularly in sectors such as packaging, printing, and writing. This trend is fueled by advancements in technology that enable the production of high-performance and sustainable specialty papers. However, the market faces challenges due to the lack of availability of raw materials and the volatility of raw material prices. These factors can significantly impact the profitability of manufacturers and may necessitate strategic sourcing and supply chain management. To capitalize on market opportunities, companies must focus on innovation and efficiency in their production processes, while also implementing risk management strategies to mitigate the impact of raw material price fluctuations. Effective collaboration with suppliers and exploration of alternative raw materials can also help mitigate these challenges and ensure long-term competitiveness in the market.

What will be the Size of the Specialty Pulp And Paper Chemicals Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
Request Free SampleThe pulp and paper chemicals market is characterized by continuous evolution and dynamic market activities. Fiber modification through the manipulation of fiber length, ph control, and fiber morphology are essential aspects of wet-end chemistry in pulp and paper production. Mechanical pulp and chemical pulp each offer unique advantages, with mechanical pulp delivering high burst strength and chemical pulp providing energy efficiency and process optimization. In the realm of specialty pulp, green chemistry and slime control are paramount. Green chemistry focuses on reducing the environmental impact of pulp and paper production, while slime control ensures efficient production by preventing the buildup of unwanted materials in the pulp. The printing industry relies on a variety of pulp mill chemicals, including sizing agents and deinking chemicals, to produce high-performance papers. Dissolving pulp, a critical component in the production of viscose and other cellulosic fibers, is another essential segment. Functional papers, such as tissue paper and packaging materials, require specialized chemicals like drainage aids and surface finishing agents to enhance their properties. Recycled fiber and pulp refining are also significant areas of focus, with advancements in fiber yield and process optimization driving growth. Raw material sourcing, quality control, and supply chain management are ongoing concerns for pulp and paper manufacturers. Environmental compliance and energy efficiency are increasingly important factors in the industry, with a growing emphasis on sustainability and circular economy principles. Papermaking additives, such as retention aids and ash content control agents, play a crucial role in optimizing paper production. Wood pulp, industrial paper, and paper coating applications also benefit from these specialized chemicals. Technical support and innovation are key drivers in the pulp and paper chemicals market, with ongoing research and development efforts aimed at improving product performance and reducing environmental impact. The market is expected to remain dynamic, with new applications and technologies continually emerging.

How is this Specialty Pulp And Paper Chemicals Industry segmented?

The specialty pulp and paper chemicals 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. TypeFunctional chemicalsBleaching chemicalsProcess chemicalsOthersApplicationPrinting and writingPackagingTissue and hygieneOthersForm FactorLiquidPowderGranulesEnd-userPaper millsRecycled paper processingSpecialty paper manufacturersGeographyNorth AmericaUSCanadaEuropeFranceGermanyItalyUKAPACChinaIndiaJapanSouth KoreaRest of World (ROW).

By Type Insights

The functional chemicals segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.The market encompasses a range of functional chemicals used in the production of paper for various industries. These include cellulosic specialties, chelates, ethylene amines, metal alkyls, micronutrients, organic peroxides, polysulfides, re-dispersible powder polymers, salt specialties, sulfur products, dyes, pigments, and coating chemicals. Incorporated in the manufacturing process, these chemicals enhance paper properties such as fiber strength, tear strength, moisture content, and fiber length. Corrugated cardboard, a significant end-use industry, relies on retentio

Statistics illustrates most promising overseas markets of moulded or pressed articles of paper pulp in South Korea from 2007 to 2024.

Product Market size is rising upward in the past few years And it is estimated that the market will grow significantly in the forecasted period

The specialty pulp & paper chemicals market is projected to grow from USD 24.9 billion in 2025 to USD 35.1 billion by 2035, registering a CAGR of 3.5% during the forecast period.

Country-wise Insights