South Korea Meat Snacks Market Overview, 2030

The South Korea meat snacks market is a dynamic and rapidly growing segment of the snack industry, characterized by its emphasis on quality, innovation, and unique flavors. As South Korean consumers increasingly seek convenient, protein-rich, and indulgent snacks, meat snacks have gained significant popularity, offering a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. The market is driven by the growing demand for high-protein, low-carb snacks that align with health and wellness trends, as well as the influence of Western dietary habits. South Korean meat snacks are known for their premium quality, often incorporating locally inspired flavors such as bulgogi, gochujang, and kimchi, which cater to the discerning palates of consumers. The market is also benefiting from the rise of e-commerce and the increasing popularity of on-the-go snacking, particularly among urban professionals and younger demographics. Regulatory oversight by agencies like the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) ensures product safety, quality, and labeling accuracy, fostering consumer trust. With its focus on innovation, flavor, and convenience, the South Korea meat snacks market is a dynamic and lucrative space for both domestic and international players. The market’s growth is further supported by the rising disposable incomes, changing dietary habits, and the increasing penetration of e-commerce platforms, which have made meat snacks more accessible to a wider audience. As consumers become more adventurous in their food choices, the demand for exotic and premium meat snacks is also on the rise, creating a vibrant and competitive market landscape. The history of meat snacks in South Korea is deeply rooted in traditional preservation techniques, such as drying and smoking, which were used to extend the shelf life of meat. These methods were particularly prevalent in regions with strong meat-eating cultures, such as the North-East and coastal areas. Over time, these techniques evolved, incorporating modern processing technologies and flavors. The market gained momentum in the early 2000s with the introduction of Western-style meat snacks, which appealed to younger, urban consumers. Today, the market is regulated by the MFDS, which enforces strict standards for food safety, labeling, and quality control. Policies also address the use of additives, preservatives, and allergens, ensuring transparency and consumer protection.

According to the research report "South Korea meat snacks Market Overview, 2030," published by Bonafide Research, the South Korea meat snacks market is expected to reach a market size of more than USD 400 Million by 2030. The South Korea meat snacks market is experiencing robust growth, driven by shifting consumer preferences toward high-protein, convenient, and flavorful snacks. Key trends include the rise of clean-label products, with consumers demanding natural ingredients, minimal processing, and no artificial additives. Localized flavors, such as bulgogi, gochujang, and kimchi, are gaining popularity, reflecting South Korea’s rich culinary heritage. Health and wellness remain a dominant driver, as meat snacks align with dietary trends like high-protein and low-carb diets. Sustainability is also becoming a priority, with brands focusing on eco-friendly packaging and ethically sourced meats. Trade programs, such as import-export initiatives and partnerships with retailers, are expanding the market’s reach globally. The market is also benefiting from innovation in product formats, such as meat bars and bites, which cater to diverse consumer needs. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the demand for shelf-stable, nutritious snacks, further boosting the market. Trade shows like Seoul Food and partnerships with e-commerce platforms are driving visibility and accessibility. With a strong CAGR projected, the market is poised for continued expansion, driven by innovation, health trends, and consumer demand for convenience. The growing influence of Western dietary habits and the increasing popularity of on-the-go snacking are also contributing to the market’s growth. The rise of e-commerce and the increasing penetration of modern retail formats are further enhancing the accessibility and availability of meat snacks, making them a popular choice among urban and rural consumers alike.

The South Korea meat snacks market is segmented into jerky, sticks & strips, sausages, bars, and others (chunks, bites, chips, flakes, broths, pâtés). Jerky remains the most popular category, valued for its long shelf life, portability, and variety of flavors. Beef jerky dominates, but pork and poultry jerkies are gaining traction, often infused with local flavors like bulgogi and gochujang. Sticks & strips, such as sausage sticks and dried meat strips, offer a convenient, mess-free option, often favored by younger consumers. Sausages, including smoked and dried varieties, provide a hearty, indulgent snack option, often infused with spices and herbs. Meat bars, a newer entrant, are gaining popularity for their compact, nutrient-dense profiles, appealing to fitness enthusiasts. The others category includes innovative formats like meat chunks, bites, and chips, which cater to snacking occasions, as well as broths and pâtés, which target gourmet and health-conscious consumers. Each product type is evolving to meet consumer demands for flavor, texture, and nutritional benefits, with brands experimenting with unique ingredients and preparation methods. The increasing availability of these products through various retail channels, including online platforms, is further driving their popularity among consumers.

The South Korea meat snacks market is segmented by source into beef, pork, poultry, lamb & goat, and others (salmon & other seafood, exotic meats like venison and bison). Beef remains the most popular source, accounting for the majority of market share due to its rich flavor and high protein content. Pork-based snacks, such as sausage sticks and pork jerky, are also widely consumed, offering a savory, fatty alternative. Poultry, particularly chicken, is gaining popularity for its lean profile and versatility. Lamb and goat, though niche, are emerging as premium options, often marketed as exotic and gourmet. The others category includes seafood-based snacks like fish jerky, which appeal to health-conscious consumers for their omega-3 content, and exotic meats like venison and bison, which cater to adventurous eaters and those seeking sustainable, free-range options. Each source is being leveraged to create unique, differentiated products that cater to diverse consumer preferences. The emphasis on quality and sustainability has positioned South Korea as a leader in the Asia-Pacific meat snacks market. The increasing availability of these products through various retail channels, including online platforms, is further driving their popularity among consumers.

Hypermarkets and supermarkets remain the dominant channel, offering a wide variety of brands and flavors under one roof. Convenience stores and grocery stores are crucial for impulse purchases, with single-serve packs and grab-and-go formats driving sales. Specialty stores, including health food and gourmet retailers, cater to niche markets, offering premium and artisanal products. Online retailers are rapidly growing, fueled by the convenience of home delivery and subscription services, as well as the ability to reach a broader audience. The others category includes quick-service restaurants (QSRs), which are incorporating meat snacks into their menus, and airport & travel retail, where portable, non-perishable snacks are in high demand. Each channel plays a vital role in the market’s growth, with brands tailoring their strategies to maximize reach and consumer engagement. The growing influence of e-commerce and the increasing popularity of on-the-go snacking are also contributing to the market’s growth. The emphasis on convenience and accessibility has positioned South Korea as a leader in the Asia-Pacific meat snacks market. The increasing penetration of modern retail formats and the rise of e-commerce platforms are further enhancing the accessibility and availability of meat snacks, making them a popular choice among urban and rural consumers alike. The increasing availability of these products through various retail channels, including online platforms, is further driving their popularity among consumers.




Considered in this report
• Historic Year: 2019
• Base year: 2024
• Estimated year: 2025
• Forecast year: 2030

Aspects covered in this report
• Meat Snacks Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Product Type
• Jerky
• Sticks & Strips
• Sausages
• Bars
• Others (Chunks, Bites, Chips, Flakes, Broths, Pâtés)

By Source
• Beef
• Pork
• Poultry
• Lamb & Goat
• Others(Salmon & Other Seafood, Exotic Meats (Venison, Bison, Others)

By Sales Channel
• Hypermarkets/Supermarkets
• Convenience Stores & Grocery Stores
• Specialty Stores
• Online Retailers
• Others(Quick Service Restaurants (QSRs), Airport & Travel Retail)

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analyzing the government generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to agriculture industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.