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Pea Protein Market in South Korea to Surpass USD 324.6 Million by 2035 — Growth Driven by Plant-Based Food Innovation Across APAC

South Korea’s pea protein market grows rapidly through 2035, driven by clean-label demand, vegan trends, and sustainable food innovation.
Published 13 November 2025

The Trends, Growth, and Opportunity Analysis of Pea Protein in South Korea indicates a robust market expansion, with the sector estimated at USD 109.3 million in 2025 and projected to reach USD 324.6 million by 2035, reflecting a CAGR of 11.5%.

The strong performance of South Korea’s pea protein market is underpinned by growing consumer awareness of plant-based nutrition, surging demand for protein-enriched foods, and an increasing shift toward vegan and flexitarian diets. The market’s progress is further supported by advancements in protein extraction technology, rising e-commerce penetration, and expanding collaborations between ingredient suppliers and food manufacturers.

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Market Overview and Growth Drivers

Pea protein has become an integral part of South Korea’s evolving food and beverage sector, recognized for its high nutritional value, versatility, and sustainability. The clean-label movement and government support for organic products have accelerated consumer trust and market credibility.

Key factors driving growth include:

  • Expanding consumer preference for non-allergenic and sustainable protein sources
  • Enhanced product innovation in sports nutrition, bakery, and beverage segments
  • Government focus on organic and plant-based agriculture
  • Technological innovations in protein processing and solubility improvement

The country’s shift toward sustainable consumption patterns, coupled with global trends in health and wellness, is expected to maintain upward momentum through 2035.

Segmental Insights

By Nature: Organic Segment Leads with 57.8% Market Share

The organic category remains dominant, reflecting consumer confidence in clean-label products and certified organic sourcing. This preference has been reinforced by:

  • Strong regulatory support for organic labeling
  • Reliable supply chains and traceability measures
  • Premium positioning in functional foods, beverages, and dietary supplements

Investments in organic pea cultivation and processing are expected to strengthen leadership and long-term stability in the segment.

By Product Type: Protein Isolates Capture 48.3% Share

Protein isolates continue to be the top-performing product type due to their high purity, solubility, and versatility across multiple applications, including sports nutrition, meat alternatives, and dairy substitutes. By 2035, isolates are expected to account for 45.1% of total market share, supported by:

  • Growing preference for high-protein and low-fat foods
  • Clean-label positioning and hypoallergenic properties
  • Compatibility with plant-based meat and dairy analogs

By Processing: Dry Processing Dominates with 52.6% Share

Dry processing methods account for the largest market share due to cost efficiency, energy conservation, and improved protein integrity. The segment is projected to reach 67.7% share by 2035, supported by:

  • Enhanced shelf stability and ease of handling
  • Reduced production costs and lower carbon footprint
  • Growing adoption in protein shakes, snacks, and functional beverages

Regional Production Hotspots and Provincial Insights

South Gyeongsang: Government Support for Sustainable Agriculture

Favorable climate conditions and government incentives for sustainable pea cultivation are boosting local production. Collaboration with universities and agritech initiatives promotes innovation and sustainability in plant-based protein manufacturing.

North Jeolla: Local Food Ecosystem Expands

Local manufacturers are increasingly incorporating pea protein into health-oriented foods and snacks. The region’s focus on local sourcing and reduced carbon emissions supports sustainability objectives and consumer appeal.

Jeju Province: Climate Advantage and Tourism Synergy

Jeju’s volcanic soil and temperate climate support pea cultivation, while its health tourism sector creates new opportunities for plant-based foods. Locally produced pea protein aligns with eco-friendly, locally sourced product preferences among tourists and residents.

Key Market Trends

  • Rapid adoption in sports nutrition and protein supplements
  • Surge in plant-based meat and dairy alternatives
  • Growth in sustainable protein sourcing and local production
  • Increased consumer focus on nutrient-rich, allergen-free food products

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Competitive Landscape

The market features both domestic and global leaders, including CJ CheilJedang, LG Chem, KGC Ginseng Corporation, Lotte Corporation, Samsung SDS, Daesang Corporation, Ingredion, Roquette, Emsland Group, Nutri-Pea, Shandong Jianyuan Foods, and Shandong Huatai Food.

Recent Developments:

  • CJ CheilJedang (2025): Introduced CJ Pea Protein Isolate for use in food, supplements, and feed.
  • LG Chem (2025): Expanded domestic pea protein production capacity to meet rising demand across Asia.
  • KGC Ginseng Corporation (2025): Launched KGC Pea Protein Concentrate for fortified food and beverage applications.

Browse Related Insights

Pea Protein Market: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/pea-protein-market

Pea Protein Ingredients Market: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/pea-protein-ingredients-market

Japan Pea Protein Market: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/trends-growth-and-opportunity-analysis-of-pea-protein-in-japan

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