South Korea Carrageenan Market Size, Share, and COVID-19 Impact Analysis, By Processing Technology (Semi-Refined, Gel Press, and Alcohol Precipitation), By Function (Thickening Agent and Stabilizer), and South Korea Carrageenan Market Insights, Industry Trend, Forecasts to 2035.

South Korea Carrageenan Market Insights Forecasts to 2035

• The South Korea Carrageenan Market Size Was Estimated at USD 95.1 Million in 2024
• The Market Size is Expected to Grow at a CAGR of around 6.8% from 2025 to 2035
• The South Korea Carrageenan Market Size is Expected to Reach USD 196.1Million by 2035

According to a research report published by Spherical Insights & Consulting, the South Korea Carrageenan Market Size is anticipated to reach USD 196.1Million by 2035, Growing at a CAGR of 6.8% from 2025 to 2035. Carrageenan's ability to mimic a fatty mouthfeel is predicted to increase product penetration in dairy and processed meat products, which will propel market growth over the projection period.

Market Overview

The manufacturing, processing, and distribution of carrageenan, a naturally occurring polysaccharide derived from red seaweed, are the main activities of the worldwide carrageenan market. It is widely utilized as a thickening, gelling, and stabilizing agent in a variety of applications, including pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and the food and beverage sector. Red seaweed is the natural source of carrageenan, which is appropriate for use in plant-based and clean-label food items. It is used to enhance the stability and texture of dairy products, meat substitutes, and drinks. Seaweed-derived carrageenan satisfies consumer demand for natural and identifiable ingredients, especially in "natural" or "clean label" products. Carrageenan plays a crucial role in the texture and stability of processed meats and traditional dairy products like milk, ice cream, and yogurt. To guarantee a steady and ecologically conscious supply of carrageenan, governments are putting legislation into place and offering assistance for sustainable seaweed farming methods. This includes projects aimed at increasing the area used for seaweed growing and creating agricultural methods that are climate resilient.

Report Coverage

This research report categorizes the market for South Korea carrageenan market based on various segments and regions forecasts revenue growth, and analyzes trends in each submarket. The report analyses the key growth drivers, opportunities, and challenges influencing the South Korea carrageenan market. Recent market developments and competitive strategies such as expansion, product launch, and development, partnership, merger, and acquisition have been included to draw the competitive landscape in the market. The report strategically identifies and profiles the key market players and analyses their core competencies in each sub-segment South Korea carrageenan market.

Driving Factors

Rising demand for plant-based and vegan products, such as dairy alternatives and meat analogs, drives manufacturers to use carrageenan for its gelling, stabilizing, and clean-label properties. the surge in processed and convenience foods increases the use of carrageenan for texture and shelf-life enhancement in items like yogurts, sauces, and ready meals. Its expanding applications in pharmaceuticals, personal care, and cosmetics, leveraging its thickening, emulsifying, and binding capabilities, further support market growth.

Restraining Factors

The rising health concerns are linked to its potential inflammatory effects, particularly degraded carrageenan, which has been scrutinized for gastrointestinal issues. Regulatory uncertainties and negative consumer perception have led to its removal from some organic and natural product formulations. Additionally, the availability of alternative hydrocolloids like guar gum and xanthan gum poses competitive pressure.

Market Segmentation

The South Korea carrageenan market share is classified into processing technology and function.

• The semi-refined segment held a significant share in 2024 and is expected to grow at a significant CAGR during the forecast period.

The South Korea carrageenan market is segmented by processing technology into semi-refined, gel press, and alcohol precipitation. Among these, the semi-refined segment held a significant share in 2024 and is expected to grow at a substantial CAGR during the forecast period.  Due to its cost-effectiveness, a semi-refined procedure is becoming more popular in the market. The insoluble material found in semi-refined carrageenan (SRC) includes cellulose. Food-grade semi-refined carrageenan has emerged as a result of technological advancements, expanding its use in food products and raising demand for it.

• The thickening agent segment held a significant share in 2024 and is expected to grow at a significant CAGR during the forecast period.

The South Korea carrageenan market is segmented by function into thickening agent and stabilizer. Among these, the thickening agent segment held a significant share in 2024 and is expected to grow at a significant CAGR during the forecast period. The growing need in the food and pharmaceutical industries for clean-label thickeners. The growing need for plant-based gelling additives that are easily incorporated into vegan products gave the gelling agent.

Competitive Analysis:

The report offers the appropriate analysis of the key organizations/companies involved within the South Korea carrageenan market, along with a comparative evaluation primarily based on their product offering, business overviews, geographic presence, enterprise strategies, segment market share, and SWOT analysis. The report also provides an elaborate analysis focusing on the companies' current news and developments, including product development, innovations, joint ventures, partnerships, mergers & acquisitions, strategic alliances, and others. This allows for the evaluation of the overall competition within the market.

List of Key Companies

• KOREA KARAGEN CO., LTD.
• MSC CO., LTD.
• SAMWOO T D CO., LTD.
• Well-Being LS Co., Ltd.
• Yichem Biotech Co., Ltd.
• BTC Corporation
• ICFood Co., Ltd.
• Hankuck Latices Co., Ltd.
• MeK Engineering Co., Ltd.
• Sechang Instruments Co., Ltd.
• Onto Innovation Korea Ltd.
• Others

Key Target Audience

• Market Players
• Investors
• End-users
• Government Authorities 
• Consulting and Research Firm
• Venture capitalists
• Value-Added Resellers (VARs)

Market Segment

This study forecasts revenue at South Korea, regional, and country levels from 2020 to 2035. Spherical Insights has segmented the South Korea carrageenan market based on the below-mentioned segments:

South Korea Carrageenan Market, By Processing Technology

• Semi-Refined
• Gel Press
• Alcohol Precipitation

South Korea Carrageenan Market, By Function

• Thickening Agent
• Stabilizer