As per MRFR analysis, the South Korea Activated Carbon Market Size was estimated at 190.8 (USD Million) in 2023. The South Korea Activated Carbon Market Industry is expected to grow from 205.2(USD Million) in 2024 to 615.6 (USD Million) by 2035. The South Korea Activated Carbon Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 10.503% during the forecast period (2025 - 2035).
Key South Korea Activated Carbon Market Trends Highlighted
The South Korea Activated Carbon Market is experiencing significant growth as it is driven by increasing environmental regulations and heightened awareness regarding air and water quality. The South Korean government has implemented strict standards to regulate air pollution and ensure safe drinking water, which has created a strong demand for activated carbon in various applications such as air purification, water treatment, and industrial processes. Additionally, the growing automotive and electronics industries in South Korea are exploring the use of activated carbon for filtration systems, contributing to the market’s expansion. There are opportunities to be explored in the development of new and innovative applications of activated carbon, particularly in emerging sectors such as renewable energy and pharmaceuticals.As companies place more focus on sustainability, the need to produce activated carbon from sustainable sources is on the rise, which is beneficial from both a marketing and environmental perspective. South Korea's green technology goals open up opportunities for novel uses of activated carbon in energy storage and waste management. There is a growing tendency to apply sophisticated materials and advanced manufacturing technologies to activated carbon products to improve their performance and efficiency. These trends are consistent with the abundant research and development resources in South Korea, which support the development of new materials and industrial technologies.Moreover, the increasing preference for regionally produced carbon products is prompting manufacturers to adopt sustainable practices that resonate with local consumers. As global supply chains are re-evaluated, there is potential for local companies to capture a more significant market share through the promotion of domestic production, enhancing sustainability in the activated carbon sector.
Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
South Korea Activated Carbon Market Drivers
Increasing Industrialization and Manufacturing Activities
South Korea's rapid industrialization and expansion of manufacturing activities present substantial growth opportunities for the South Korea Activated Carbon Market Industry. The government has focused on enhancing the manufacturing sector, contributing to the demand for activated carbon widely used in air and water purification processes within various industries. According to South Korea's Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy, the country’s manufacturing output reached approximately USD 400 billion in recent years, reflecting a significant increase in production.Major industries such as automotive, electronics, and semiconductors are reliant on water treatment technologies, leading to increased adoption of activated carbon solutions for pollutant removal. Additionally, organizations such as the Korea Engineering Plastics Industry Association have reported a consistent demand for environmental solutions, thereby spurring the growth of the activated carbon market as companies aim to adhere to strict environmental regulations.This trend indicates that the burgeoning industrial growth is set to drive the activated carbon market in the region significantly.
Rising Environmental Awareness and Regulations
There is a growing emphasis on environmental protection and sustainability in South Korea, which is becoming a pivotal driver for the South Korea Activated Carbon Market Industry. The government has taken significant steps toward implementing stricter environmental regulations aimed at reducing air and water pollution, which is directly impacting the demand for activated carbon used in filtration and purification processes. The Ministry of Environment has reported that South Korea aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 37% from business-as-usual levels by 2030, which emphasizes the need for cleaner technologies.Furthermore, local governments are promoting initiatives to ban single-use plastics, resulting in an increased demand for eco-friendly products. Consequently, the activation of environmental policies prompts sectors like water treatment and air purification to adopt activated carbon solutions, thereby boosting market growth.
Growing Demand from Water Treatment Applications
The South Korea Activated Carbon Market Industry is experiencing significant growth due to the rising demand for water treatment applications. The region faces challenges related to water scarcity and pollution, necessitating efficient water treatment solutions. In a report by the Korean Water Resources Corporation, it was highlighted that more than 25% of water resources are considered polluted, necessitating advanced filtration methods. Activated carbon is primarily utilized for its ability to adsorb impurities and contaminants in water, making it a vital component in water treatment systems.Additionally, as per the National Institute of Environmental Research, the country aims to improve water quality standards, further increasing the reliance on activated carbon solutions in sewage treatment and drinking water purification processes. This focus on improving water quality underlines the considerable demand for activated carbon within the market.
Expanding End-use Industries and Applications
The diversification and expansion of end-use industries in South Korea play a crucial role in propelling the South Korea Activated Carbon Market Industry's growth. Key sectors such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and the automotive industry increasingly utilize activated carbon for various applications, including drug purification, taste and odor removal, and emission control systems. The Korea Food Drug Administration has noted a rising trend in the use of activated carbon for food safety, as it is effective in removing harmful substances.In the automotive sector, as South Korea shifts towards electric vehicles, there is a growing need for activated carbon in battery and air filtration systems, reflecting an expansive application spectrum. This broadening of activated carbon uses across different industries indicates a dynamic growth potential for the market in South Korea.
South Korea Activated Carbon Market Segment Insights:
Activated Carbon Market Product Type Insights
The South Korea Activated Carbon Market is a vibrant industry experiencing robust growth, with significant contributions from various Product Types that include Powdered, Granular, and Others. The market has demonstrated a strong inclination towards Powdered Activated Carbon, primarily utilized in water treatment and air purification applications, reflecting the increasing environmental concerns and health standards in South Korea. This form of activated carbon is known for its high adsorption capacity and versatility, making it essential for industries including pharmaceuticals and food processing, which also drive demand due to stringent quality requirements.Granular Activated Carbon, on the other hand, plays a crucial role in large-scale applications, particularly in municipal water treatment facilities, due to its effective filtration properties and longer lifespan when compared to its powdered counterpart. The demand for Granular Activated Carbon is further fueled by the burgeoning water purification sector, positioning it as a significant component in the market's overall structure. The comparative analysis indicates that while both Powdered and Granular forms maintain strong market shares, the category denoted as 'Others' encompasses specialized forms of activated carbon, including extruded and pelletized variants, which gain traction due to their unique applications in gas phase adsorption and specialized industrial processes.Overall, the varied product types within the South Korea Activated Carbon Market segmentation showcase a landscape that is adaptive to changing regulatory demands and environmental concerns, thereby creating opportunities for innovation and advancement in filtration technologies. Moreover, with the South Korean government's focus on sustainable development and pollution reduction, the activated carbon industry is well-placed to benefit from favorable policies that encourage cleaner production and waste management strategies. Thus, as the market evolves, the distinctions amongst these product types will increasingly define the competitive landscape and drive technological advancements across the activated carbon industry.
Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Activated Carbon Market Raw Material Insights
The South Korea Activated Carbon Market's Raw Material segment plays a crucial role in shaping the industry's landscape, as it encompasses a variety of materials, including Coal, Coconut, Wood, Peat, and Others. Coal-based activated carbon remains dominant due to its excellent adsorption capacity and widespread application in industrial processes. Coconut shells, on the other hand, are gaining traction for their eco-friendly characteristics and are often preferred for water purification and air treatment applications. Wood-derived activated carbon is valued for its high surface area, making it effective in specialized filtering applications.Peat is recognized for its unique properties, catering to niche markets that require specific adsorption capabilities. The Others category includes materials that are emerging due to innovations in carbon production technology. As South Korea continues to focus on sustainability and environmental protection, the demand for natural and renewable raw materials in activated carbon production is expected to rise, reflecting important trends toward greener practices in the industry. Overall, the diversity within the Raw Material segment enhances the flexibility and adaptability of the South Korea Activated Carbon Market, allowing it to meet various customer needs across multiple sectors.
Activated Carbon Market Application Insights
The Application segment of the South Korea Activated Carbon Market plays a crucial role in addressing various filtration and purification needs across industries. This market is primarily divided into Liquid-Phase and Gas-Phase applications, both of which are significant in their respective domains. Liquid-Phase applications dominate due to the increasing demand for water treatment, driven by stringent environmental regulations that aim to ensure a clean water supply. Gas-Phase applications are also vital, particularly in air pollution control and industrial emissions reduction, supporting sustainable practices within the growing industrial sector.The rising awareness regarding air quality and the need for effective filtration methods contribute to the expansion of both applications. Additionally, urbanization in South Korea has led to heightened industrial activity, further propelling the need for activated carbon solutions. Market growth is supported by technological advancements that enhance the efficiency of these applications, while challenges include competition and the increasing availability of alternatives. Overall, the diversification of applications within the South Korea Activated Carbon Market indicates a robust outlook, emphasizing the essential roles of both Liquid-Phase and Gas-Phase applications in environmental and health safety.
Activated Carbon Market End User Insights
The South Korea Activated Carbon Market, particularly within the End User sector, showcases diverse applications across various industries, reflecting significant market dynamics. Water Treatment remains a crucial area, driven by stringent regulations for safe drinking water and ecological sustainability. The Food Beverage Processing segment emphasizes the need for purity and quality, utilizing activated carbon for decolorization and taste enhancement. Moreover, the Pharmaceutical Medical field relies heavily on activated carbon for drug purification and air filtration, showcasing its critical role in health outcomes.In the Automotive industry, activated carbon is pivotal for exhaust treatment systems, contributing to emissions reduction. Air Purification, driven by growing environmental awareness and urban pollution, stands out as an essential application for improving indoor and outdoor air quality. Mining operations utilize activated carbon for gold recovery, highlighting its relevance in resource extraction. Additionally, the Textiles and Electronics sectors leverage activated carbon for specialized treatments, addressing unique industry needs. Overall, the segmentation within the South Korea Activated Carbon Market illustrates its multifaceted nature and essential contributions across diverse sectors, indicating robust opportunities for growth in the coming years.
South Korea Activated Carbon Market Key Players and Competitive Insights:
The South Korea Activated Carbon Market presents a dynamic landscape characterized by various players competing for market share through product innovation, strategic partnerships, and enhanced manufacturing processes. This market is driven by increasing demand across various applications, including air and water treatment, industrial processes, and healthcare. Competitive insights reveal that companies are focusing on developing high-quality activated carbon products that meet stringent environmental regulations while aiming to cater to diverse industry needs. The market landscape is also influenced by the growing emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendly materials, leading firms to invest in research and development to create more efficient and sustainable activated carbon solutions.Kuraray holds a significant position in the South Korea Activated Carbon Market, recognized for its robust product portfolio and innovative approaches to activated carbon manufacturing. The company has established a strong presence through its comprehensive range of activated carbon products catering to diverse applications, including air and water purification, and industrial uses. Kuraray is distinguished by its advanced technology and high-performance products that meet international quality standards, positioning it as a leader in the market. The company's strengths lie in its commitment to research and development, enabling it to innovate and enhance the effectiveness of its activated carbon solutions. This focus on quality, coupled with an expansive distribution network, allows Kuraray to effectively meet the growing demands of both commercial and industrial sectors in South Korea.Gient is another notable player in the South Korea Activated Carbon Market, recognized for its wide array of products and services that cater to various applications. The company specializes in providing activated carbon solutions aimed at air and water treatment, demonstrating a strong commitment to technological advancement and product quality. Gient's strengths include its ability to adapt to market needs through continuous improvement and innovation, ensuring that its products remain competitive. The company has successfully engaged in strategic partnerships and collaborations to enhance its market presence in South Korea. Further, Gient has focused on mergers and acquisitions to expand its capabilities and product offerings, allowing it to strengthen its operational base and distribution channels in the region. These strategies have contributed to Gient's reputation for reliability and quality within the activated carbon sector.
Key Companies in the South Korea Activated Carbon Market Include:
Kuraray
Gient
Tonghae Carbon
Kuznetsk Carbon
Zhejiang Jianxin
Calgon Carbon
Korea Activated Carbon
CPL Activated Carbons
Seungil Chemical
Cabot Corporation
Sungshin Chemical
Haycarb
SGL Carbon
Carbon Activated Corporation
South Korea Activated Carbon Market Industry Developments
In recent months, the South Korea Activated Carbon Market has been experiencing notable developments and growth. The increasing demand for activated carbon solutions, particularly in air and water treatment applications, has led to significant interest from key players such as Kuraray and Calgon Carbon. In July 2023, Korea Activated Carbon expanded its production capacity to meet growing domestic and international demand, signaling a strategic move to solidify its market presence. Additionally, SGL Carbon announced an investment in advanced manufacturing technology in August 2023, aimed at improving the quality and production efficiency of its activated carbon products in South Korea. Amid rising environmental concerns, companies like Gient and Haycarb are shifting focus toward sustainable practices, enhancing product offerings that cater to eco-friendly initiatives. Moreover, ongoing research and development activities among firms such as Sungshin Chemical and CPL Activated Carbons are promising to unlock new applications and utilize innovative technologies. Notably, the market is projected to reflect a steady growth trajectory, supported by increased investment and advancements by major industry players in the region, enhancing the overall valuation of the South Korean activated carbon landscape.
South Korea Activated Carbon Market Segmentation Insights
Activated Carbon MarketProduct TypeOutlook
Powdered
Granular
Others
Activated Carbon MarketRaw MaterialOutlook
Coal
Coconut
Wood
Peat
Others
Activated Carbon MarketApplicationOutlook
Liquid-Phase
Gas-Phase
Activated Carbon MarketEnd UserOutlook
Water Treatment
FoodBeverage Processing
PharmaceuticalMedical
Automotive
Air Purification
Mining
Textiles
Electronics
Others
Report Scope:,,,,,,,,,,,,,
| Report Attribute/Metric Source: | Details |
| MARKET SIZE 2018 | 190.8(USD Million) |
| MARKET SIZE 2024 | 205.2(USD Million) |
| MARKET SIZE 2035 | 615.6(USD Million) |
| COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR) | 10.503% (2025 - 2035) |
| REPORT COVERAGE | Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends |
| BASE YEAR | 2024 |
| MARKET FORECAST PERIOD | 2025 - 2035 |
| HISTORICAL DATA | 2019 - 2024 |
| MARKET FORECAST UNITS | USD Million |
| KEY COMPANIES PROFILED | Kuraray, Gient, Tonghae Carbon, Kuznetsk Carbon, Zhejiang Jianxin, Calgon Carbon, Korea Activated Carbon, CPL Activated Carbons, Seungil Chemical, Cabot Corporation, Sungshin Chemical, Haycarb, SGL Carbon, Carbon Activated Corporation |
| SEGMENTS COVERED | Product Type, Raw Material, Application, End User |
| KEY MARKET OPPORTUNITIES | Growing industrial applications, Increasing environmental regulations, Rising air and water purification needs, Expanding food and beverage sector, Technological advancements in production |
| KEY MARKET DYNAMICS | increasing air pollution concerns, stringent environmental regulations, growing industrial applications, rising demand for water treatment, expanding healthcare sector use |
| COUNTRIES COVERED | South Korea |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
The South Korea Activated Carbon Market is expected to be valued at 205.2 million USD in 2024.
In 2035, the South Korea Activated Carbon Market is projected to reach a value of 615.6 million USD.
The market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 10.503 percent during the period from 2025 to 2035.
Granular activated carbon is anticipated to hold the largest market share, valued at 85.0 million USD in 2024.
The market size for powdered activated carbon is expected to reach 210.0 million USD in 2035.
Some major players in the market include Kuraray, Gient, and Calgon Carbon.
The estimated value of the 'Others' product segment is 50.2 million USD in 2024.
The market offers growth opportunities driven by increasing demand for air and water purification applications.
Granular activated carbon is projected to have a market size of 255.0 million USD in 2035.
Emerging trends, such as advancements in manufacturing processes, are expected to positively impact market growth and innovation.
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Research Analyst Level I In her 3 years of experience in the market research field, she has handled critical cross-domain projects. she has an in-depth knowledge of market estimation & analysis, problem-solving, primary as well as secondary research, and team management.she holds an engineering degree and is an mba professional from a well-known university, capable of evaluating the market and competitive conditions. an exceptional strategist with excellent communication skills and a passion for delivering cutting-edge & practical insights for the market. proficient in multi-tasking, and can successfully deal with competing demands, while maintaining complete confidentiality. generated business through active client and project development, networking, and high-quality responses. her knowledge and skills have helped in making solid business decisions, securing funding from investors, and avoiding business failures.
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