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    South Korea Automotive Industry

    ID: MRFR/AM/45349-HCR
    200 Pages
    Sejal Akre
    September 2025

    South Korea Automotive Industry Report Market Research Report By Vehicle Type (Passenger Car, Hatchback, Sedan, SUV, MUV, Commercial Vehicle, lcvs, Heavy Trucks, Buses Coaches) and By Propulsion Type (Ice Vehicle, Electric Vehicle) - Forecast to 2035

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    South Korea Automotive Industry Report Market Research Report — Global Forecast till 2035 Infographic
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    Table of Contents

    South Korea Automotive Industry Summary

    The South Korea automotive industry is projected to experience substantial growth, reaching 580 USD billion by 2035.

    Key Market Trends & Highlights

    South Korea Automotive Industry Report Key Trends and Highlights

    • The market valuation is expected to grow from 244.5 USD billion in 2024 to 580 USD billion by 2035.
    • The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for the period from 2025 to 2035 is estimated at 8.17 percent.
    • The automotive sector in South Korea is likely to expand significantly, driven by increasing consumer demand and technological advancements.
    • Growing adoption of electric vehicles due to environmental regulations is a major market driver.

    Market Size & Forecast

    2024 Market Size 244.5 (USD Billion)
    2035 Market Size 580 (USD Billion)
    CAGR (2025-2035) 8.17%

    Major Players

    Mercedes-Benz Korea, Hyundai Motor Company, Toyota Motor Korea, BMW Korea, Daewoo Commercial Vehicle, Renault Samsung Motors, Nissan Korea, LG Chem, Ford Korea, SsangYong Motor, Honda Korea, GM Korea, Skoda Auto, Samsung SDI, Kia Corporation

    South Korea Automotive Industry Trends

    The South Korea automotive industry is experiencing significant shifts driven by technological advancements, environmental regulations, and changing consumer preferences. The key market drivers include a strong focus on electric vehicles (EVs) as the government aims to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable energy usage. This transition is supported by various initiatives, such as subsidies for EV purchases and investment in charging infrastructure, highlighting the government's commitment to a greener future. Additionally, South Korea's robust manufacturing capabilities position it well for innovation in smart vehicle technology, including autonomous driving and connectivity features. 

    Consumers are increasingly choosing electric and hybrid vehicles, pinpointing a greater concern and awareness for the environment. These changes encourage business growth, especially in cities where pollution is a primary concern. The South Korean automotive industry is also adjusting to new trends with the increasing use of intelligent and Internet-of-Things (IoT)-)-enabled devices like Advanced Driver-Assisted Systems (ADAS). 

    South Korea has a notable digital proficiency, which makes adding innovative technologies to vehicles highly marketable. There is room to strengthen the local value chain to lessen the dependency on foreign parts such as batteries and semiconductors, which would allow faster production and higher profits.

    Local manufacturers can potentially explore collaboration with tech firms to innovate in vehicle automation and connectivity. The combination of strong government support, consumer willingness to embrace new technologies, and an investment-friendly environment positions South Korea's automotive sector for robust growth in the coming years. Through these developments, South Korea is shaping its automotive industry to meet future challenges while catering to changing consumer dynamics.

    Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, Market Research Future Database and Analyst Review

    South Korea Automotive Industry Drivers

    Market Segment Insights

    Automotive Industry Report Market Vehicle Type Insights

    The Vehicle Type segment within the South Korea Automotive Industry Report Market reveals a diverse and dynamic landscape shaped by consumer preferences and technological advancements. The South Korean market is notably characterized by the popularity of passenger cars, including hatchbacks and sedans, which cater to urban dwellers seeking compact and efficient transportation solutions. Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) and Multi Utility Vehicles (MUVs) have also gained significant traction, appealing to families and individuals looking for versatility and comfort. The growing trend towards larger vehicles reflects changing lifestyles and the desire for enhanced safety and utility in transportation.

    Commercial vehicles, including Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs) and heavy trucks, continue to play a critical role in supporting South Korea's robust logistics and transportation sectors. These vehicles are essential for the movement of goods and are experiencing shifts towards electric and hybrid models due to environmental regulations and sustainability efforts. 

    Buses and coaches are also prominent in South Korea, particularly given the government's focus on promoting public transportation to alleviate urban congestion and reduce emissions. As such, there is a notable market movement towards greener technologies across the Vehicle Type segment, aligning with national initiatives aimed at fostering environmentally friendly transportation solutions.

    Further segment analysis shows that consumer preference is evolving toward vehicles equipped with advanced technologies that enhance safety, connectivity, and fuel efficiency. This shift creates opportunities for manufacturers to innovate and differentiate themselves in a competitive landscape. The South Korean Automotive Industry Report Market is adapting to these demands by investing in Research and Development (R) to incorporate features such as autonomous driving capabilities and smart technology integration across various vehicle types.

    Overall, the Vehicle Type segment within the South Korea Automotive Industry Report Market illustrates a landscape marked by growth and innovation driven by changing consumer needs, technological evolution, and regulatory frameworks that are pushing the industry towards sustainability and efficiency. Thus, understanding the nuances of this segment is essential for stakeholders aiming to capitalize on the emerging trends shaping the automotive industry in South Korea.

    Automotive Industry Report Market Propulsion Type Insights

    The Propulsion Type segment within the South Korea Automotive Industry Report Market is characterized by a notable cleavage between internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and electric vehicles (EVs). The South Korean automotive landscape has seen a significant pivot toward electric mobility, driven by government incentives aimed at promoting sustainable transport solutions. 

    The growing concern over air pollution and carbon emissions has propelled the demand for cleaner vehicle alternatives, thereby increasing the market share of electric vehicles. Additionally, the South Korean government has outlined ambitious targets for EV adoption, aligning with the global shift toward electrification. This region boasts a robust infrastructure for electric vehicles, including widespread charging stations that support the transition from ICE vehicles to EVs. 

    While ICE vehicles have historically dominated this segment, the shift towards electric mobility is anticipated to redefine the competitive landscape. The South Korea Automotive Industry Report Market data suggests an increasing consumer preference for environmentally friendly vehicles, thereby positioning electric vehicles as a crucial component in the industry's future trajectory. Overall, the growing emphasis on sustainability and technological advancements presents numerous opportunities for growth within this segment, highlighting its significance in shaping the South Korea Automotive Industry Report Market statistics.

    Get more detailed insights about South Korea Automotive Industry Report Market Research Report — Global Forecast till 2035

    Regional Insights

    Key Players and Competitive Insights

    The competitive landscape of the South Korea Automotive Industry Report Market is characterized by a robust and dynamic environment driven by rapid technological advancements, changing consumer preferences, and increasing emphasis on sustainability. South Korea stands as a significant automotive hub in Asia, showcasing a mix of domestic and international players competing for market share. Companies are continuously innovating and enhancing their product offerings to adapt to the evolving market demands, particularly in electric and hybrid vehicles. 

    Additionally, strategic alliances, partnerships, and investments in research and development further contribute to the competitiveness of the automotive industry. The active government policies promoting electric mobility and improving infrastructure also play a crucial role in shaping the competitive dynamics within this market. Mercedes-Benz Korea has established a strong presence in the South Korean automotive landscape, holding a reputation for luxury vehicles and innovative technology. The company's collaboration with local dealers and focus on customer-centric services has further solidified its market position. 

    Mercedes-Benz Korea capitalizes on the premium segment by offering a diverse portfolio of vehicles that appeal to affluent consumers looking for quality, performance, and brand prestige. The strategic marketing initiatives and localized customer support have proven advantageous, allowing Mercedes-Benz Korea to differentiate itself from competitors. Furthermore, its investment in sustainability and electric offerings aligns well with the increasing consumer interest in eco-friendly vehicles, contributing to its strengths within the market. 

    Hyundai Motor Company serves as a cornerstone of the South Korean automotive sector, exemplifying innovation and mass-market appeal. With a strong lineup of vehicles ranging from compact cars to SUVs and electric models, Hyundai has significantly influenced consumer preferences in the region. The company maintains a vast network of dealerships, ensuring extensive market presence and customer access. Hyundai’s commitment to research and development fosters continuous improvement in vehicle technology, such as advanced safety features and connectivity options. 

    Moreover, the company's efforts in mergers and acquisitions, including partnerships with technology firms, enhance its competitive edge and facilitate its entry into new market segments. With a focus on sustainability, Hyundai is actively expanding its electric vehicle offerings, appealing to environmentally-conscious consumers. The brand's established identity as a reliable, affordable, and innovative automaker reinforces its strength within the South Korean automotive market.

    Key Companies in the South Korea Automotive Industry market include

    Industry Developments

    Recent developments in the South Korea Automotive Industry Report Market indicate a growing focus on innovation and sustainability. Significant growth has been recorded by major players such as Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation, reflecting an increasing market valuation driven by a surge in electric vehicle (EV) adoption. Mercedes-Benz Korea and BMW Korea are intensifying their investments in EV technology, aiming to capture a larger share of the market.

    Meanwhile, in terms of acquisitions, it was noted in July 2023 that Renault Samsung Motors entered into a strategic partnership with LG Chem to co-develop battery technologies for future EVs, enhancing their competitive stance in the growing electric sector. In the past two to three years, the automotive market has evolved rapidly with a heightened focus on autonomous driving technology, as evidenced by GM Korea's partnerships in RD initiatives aimed at self-driving cars. 

    The South Korean government continues to support the automotive industry with numerous incentives for carbon-neutral vehicles, making it a favorable environment for both local and international manufacturers. Notably, Ford Korea is also strategizing on expanding its presence in the electric segment to meet rising domestic demand.

    Market Segmentation

    Automotive Industry Report Market Vehicle Type Outlook

    • Ice Vehicle
    • Electric Vehicle

    Automotive Industry Report Market Propulsion Type Outlook

    • Ice Vehicle
    • Electric Vehicle

    Report Scope

    Report Attribute/Metric Details
    Market Size 2023 228.75 (USD Billion)
    Market Size 2024 244.54 (USD Billion)
    Market Size 2035 580.0 (USD Billion)
    Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) 8.168% (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 Billion
    Key Companies Profiled Mercedes-Benz Korea, Hyundai Motor Company, Toyota Motor Korea, BMW Korea, Daewoo Commercial Vehicle, Renault Samsung Motors, Nissan Korea, LG Chem, Ford Korea, SsangYong Motor, Honda Korea, GM Korea, Skoda Auto, Samsung SDI, Kia Corporation
    Segments Covered Vehicle Type, Propulsion Type
    Key Market Opportunities Electric vehicle adoption growth, Advanced driver-assistance systems, Increased demand for eco-friendly vehicles, Rising automotive technology investments, Expansion of mobility-as-a-service solutions
    Key Market Dynamics Electric vehicle adoption growth, Government regulations and incentives, Consumer preference for sustainability, Competitive global market trends, Advanced manufacturing technologies integration
    Countries Covered South Korea

    Market Highlights

    Author
    Sejal Akre
    Senior Research Analyst

    She has over 5 years of rich experience, in market research and consulting providing valuable market insights to client. Hands on expertise in management consulting, and extensive knowledge in domain including ICT, Automotive & Transportation and Aerospace & Defense. She is skilled in Go-to market strategy, industry analysis, market sizing, in depth company profiling, competitive intelligence & benchmarking and value chain amongst others.

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    FAQs

    What is the expected market size of the South Korea Automotive Industry Report Market in 2024?

    The South Korea Automotive Industry Report Market is expected to be valued at 244.54 USD Billion in 2024.

    What will be the market size of the South Korea Automotive Industry Report Market in 2035?

    In 2035, the market is projected to reach a valuation of 580.0 USD Billion.

    What is the expected CAGR for the South Korea Automotive Industry Report Market from 2025 to 2035?

    The expected CAGR for the South Korea Automotive Industry Report Market is 8.168 % from 2025 to 2035.

    Who are the key players in the South Korea Automotive Industry Report Market?

    Major players include Hyundai Motor Company, MercedesBenz Korea, and Toyota Motor Korea among others.

    What is the projected market size for passenger cars in the South Korea Automotive Industry in 2024?

    The projected market size for passenger cars is valued at 98.0 USD Billion in 2024.

    How much is the SUV segment expected to grow in the South Korea Automotive Industry by 2035?

    The SUV segment is expected to grow to 130.0 USD Billion in 2035.

    What is the expected market size for hatchbacks in 2035?

    The hatchback segment is anticipated to reach a value of 70.0 USD Billion in 2035.

    What challenges does the South Korea Automotive Industry face currently?

    Challenges include emerging competition and regulatory changes impacting market dynamics.

    What are the growth opportunities within the South Korea Automotive Industry Report Market?

    Growth opportunities exist in electric vehicles and smart car technology advancements.

    What is the market size for sedans in 2024?

    The market size for sedans is valued at 40.0 USD Billion in 2024.

    1. EXECUTIVE
    2. SUMMARY
    3. Market Overview
    4. Key Findings
    5. Market Segmentation
    6. Competitive Landscape
    7. Challenges and Opportunities
    8. Future Outlook
    9. MARKET INTRODUCTION
    10. Definition
    11. Scope of the study
    12. Research Objective
    13. Assumption
    14. Limitations
    15. RESEARCH
    16. METHODOLOGY
    17. Overview
    18. Data
    19. Mining
    20. Secondary Research
    21. Primary
    22. Research
    23. Primary Interviews and Information Gathering
    24. Process
    25. Breakdown of Primary Respondents
    26. Forecasting
    27. Model
    28. Market Size Estimation
    29. Bottom-Up
    30. Approach
    31. Top-Down Approach
    32. Data
    33. Triangulation
    34. Validation
    35. MARKET
    36. DYNAMICS
    37. Overview
    38. Drivers
    39. Restraints
    40. Opportunities
    41. MARKET FACTOR ANALYSIS
    42. Value chain Analysis
    43. Porter's
    44. Five Forces Analysis
    45. Bargaining Power of Suppliers
    46. Bargaining
    47. Power of Buyers
    48. Threat of New Entrants
    49. Threat
    50. of Substitutes
    51. Intensity of Rivalry
    52. COVID-19
    53. Impact Analysis
    54. Market Impact Analysis
    55. Regional
    56. Impact
    57. Opportunity and Threat Analysis
    58. South
    59. Korea Automotive Industry Report Market, BY Vehicle Type (USD Billion)
    60. passenger
    61. car
    62. hatchback
    63. sedan
    64. suv
    65. muv
    66. commercial
    67. vehicle
    68. lcvs
    69. heavy trucks
    70. buses
    71. coaches
    72. South Korea Automotive
    73. Industry Report Market, BY Propulsion Type (USD Billion)
    74. ice
    75. vehicle
    76. electric vehicle
    77. Competitive Landscape
    78. Overview
    79. Competitive
    80. Analysis
    81. Market share Analysis
    82. Major
    83. Growth Strategy in the Automotive Industry Report Market
    84. Competitive
    85. Benchmarking
    86. Leading Players in Terms of Number of Developments
    87. in the Automotive Industry Report Market
    88. Key developments
    89. and growth strategies
    90. New Product Launch/Service Deployment
    91. Merger
    92. Acquisitions
    93. Joint Ventures
    94. Major
    95. Players Financial Matrix
    96. Sales and Operating Income
    97. Major
    98. Players RD Expenditure. 2023
    99. Company
    100. Profiles
    101. MercedesBenz Korea
    102. Financial
    103. Overview
    104. Products Offered
    105. Key
    106. Developments
    107. SWOT Analysis
    108. Key
    109. Strategies
    110. Hyundai Motor Company
    111. Financial
    112. Overview
    113. Products Offered
    114. Key
    115. Developments
    116. SWOT Analysis
    117. Key
    118. Strategies
    119. Toyota Motor Korea
    120. Financial
    121. Overview
    122. Products Offered
    123. Key
    124. Developments
    125. SWOT Analysis
    126. Key
    127. Strategies
    128. BMW Korea
    129. Financial
    130. Overview
    131. Products Offered
    132. Key
    133. Developments
    134. SWOT Analysis
    135. Key
    136. Strategies
    137. Daewoo Commercial Vehicle
    138. Financial
    139. Overview
    140. Products Offered
    141. Key
    142. Developments
    143. SWOT Analysis
    144. Key
    145. Strategies
    146. Renault Samsung Motors
    147. Financial
    148. Overview
    149. Products Offered
    150. Key
    151. Developments
    152. SWOT Analysis
    153. Key
    154. Strategies
    155. Nissan Korea
    156. Financial
    157. Overview
    158. Products Offered
    159. Key
    160. Developments
    161. SWOT Analysis
    162. Key
    163. Strategies
    164. LG Chem
    165. Financial
    166. Overview
    167. Products Offered
    168. Key
    169. Developments
    170. SWOT Analysis
    171. Key
    172. Strategies
    173. Ford Korea
    174. Financial
    175. Overview
    176. Products Offered
    177. Key
    178. Developments
    179. SWOT Analysis
    180. Key
    181. Strategies
    182. SsangYong Motor
    183. Financial
    184. Overview
    185. Products Offered
    186. Key
    187. Developments
    188. SWOT Analysis
    189. Key
    190. Strategies
    191. Honda Korea
    192. Financial
    193. Overview
    194. Products Offered
    195. Key
    196. Developments
    197. SWOT Analysis
    198. Key
    199. Strategies
    200. GM Korea
    201. Financial
    202. Overview
    203. Products Offered
    204. Key
    205. Developments
    206. SWOT Analysis
    207. Key
    208. Strategies
    209. Skoda Auto
    210. Financial
    211. Overview
    212. Products Offered
    213. Key
    214. Developments
    215. SWOT Analysis
    216. Key
    217. Strategies
    218. Samsung SDI
    219. Financial
    220. Overview
    221. Products Offered
    222. Key
    223. Developments
    224. SWOT Analysis
    225. Key
    226. Strategies
    227. Kia Corporation
    228. Financial
    229. Overview
    230. Products Offered
    231. Key
    232. Developments
    233. SWOT Analysis
    234. Key
    235. Strategies
    236. References
    237. Related
    238. Reports
    239. LIST
    240. OF ASSUMPTIONS
    241. South Korea Automotive Industry Report
    242. Market SIZE ESTIMATES & FORECAST, BY VEHICLE TYPE, 2019-2035 (USD Billions)
    243. South
    244. Korea Automotive Industry Report Market SIZE ESTIMATES & FORECAST, BY PROPULSION
    245. TYPE, 2019-2035 (USD Billions)
    246. PRODUCT LAUNCH/PRODUCT
    247. DEVELOPMENT/APPROVAL
    248. ACQUISITION/PARTNERSHIP
    249. LIST
    250. Of figures
    251. MARKET SYNOPSIS
    252. SOUTH
    253. KOREA AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY REPORT MARKET ANALYSIS BY VEHICLE TYPE
    254. SOUTH
    255. KOREA AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY REPORT MARKET ANALYSIS BY PROPULSION TYPE
    256. KEY
    257. BUYING CRITERIA OF AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY REPORT MARKET
    258. RESEARCH
    259. PROCESS OF MRFR
    260. DRO ANALYSIS OF AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY REPORT
    261. MARKET
    262. DRIVERS IMPACT ANALYSIS: AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY REPORT
    263. MARKET
    264. RESTRAINTS IMPACT ANALYSIS: AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY
    265. REPORT MARKET
    266. SUPPLY / VALUE CHAIN: AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY
    267. REPORT MARKET
    268. AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY REPORT MARKET, BY VEHICLE
    269. TYPE, 2025 (% SHARE)
    270. AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY REPORT MARKET,
    271. BY VEHICLE TYPE, 2019 TO 2035 (USD Billions)
    272. AUTOMOTIVE
    273. INDUSTRY REPORT MARKET, BY PROPULSION TYPE, 2025 (% SHARE)
    274. AUTOMOTIVE
    275. INDUSTRY REPORT MARKET, BY PROPULSION TYPE, 2019 TO 2035 (USD Billions)
    276. BENCHMARKING
    277. OF MAJOR COMPETITORS

    South Korea Automotive Industry Report Market Segmentation

    • Automotive Industry Report Market By Vehicle Type (USD Billion, 2019-2035)

      • passenger car
      • hatchback
      • sedan
      • suv
      • muv
      • commercial vehicle
      • lcvs
      • heavy trucks
      • buses coaches
    • Automotive Industry Report Market By Propulsion Type (USD Billion, 2019-2035)

      • ice vehicle
      • electric vehicle
    Report Infographic
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