South Korea FMCG market up 3.3% in Q3

Online channels make up 42.7% of the market.

South Korea’s fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) market reported a value growth of 3.3% in the third quarter (Q3), despite a slowing down in volume of 1.7%, indicating a reduction in consumption, according to a report from Worldpanel.

The report highlighted that inflation—driving prices up by 5.1%—is the main factor behind the growth, rather than actual demand, as consumers purchase less and adjust their household spending amidst ongoing cost pressures.

There is also a growing trend toward healthier eating among Korean consumers, with low-sugar options becoming more widely available. Products such as peanut butter and reduced-sugar fruit jam contributed to a 43.9% spike in demand in the jam/spread category. Yogurts also saw a 9.3% increase as consumers gravitate toward high-protein, nutrient-dense options.

Online channels were the main driver of Q3 growth, accounting for 42.7% of the Korean FMCG market and maintaining momentum with 9.4% value growth. Led by Coupang, social commerce grew by 26.1%, boosting the overall online market. Platforms such as Naver Shopping and Market Kurly also recorded consistent growth.