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    South Korea Automotive Plastics Market

    ID: MRFR/CnM/43966-HCR
    111 Pages
    Chitranshi Jaiswal
    September 2025

    South Korea Automotive Plastics Market Research Report: By Type (Polypropylene, Polyurethane, PVC, Others) and By Application (Interior, Exterior, Under the hood, Powertrain, Others) - Forecast to 2035

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    Table of Contents

    South Korea Automotive Plastics Market Summary

    The South Korea Automotive Plastics market is poised for substantial growth, with a projected valuation of 22.3 USD Billion by 2035.

    Key Market Trends & Highlights

    South Korea Automotive Plastics Key Trends and Highlights

    • The market is valued at 12.5 USD Billion in 2024, indicating a robust starting point for growth.
    • From 2025 to 2035, the market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.4%, reflecting increasing demand for automotive plastics.
    • By 2035, the market is anticipated to reach 22.3 USD Billion, showcasing significant expansion opportunities.
    • Growing adoption of lightweight materials due to the need for fuel efficiency is a major market driver.

    Market Size & Forecast

    2024 Market Size 12.5 (USD Billion)
    2035 Market Size 22.3 (USD Billion)
    CAGR (2025 - 2035) 5.4%

    Major Players

    Samsung Electronics (KR), SK Hynix (KR), LG Electronics (KR), Hyundai Motor Company (KR), Kia Corporation (KR), POSCO (KR), Naver Corporation (KR), Kakao Corp (KR), CJ CheilJedang (KR)

    South Korea Automotive Plastics Market Trends

    The South Korea Automotive Plastics Market is now undergoing numerous significant developments that are defining its future. One of the primary drivers of this expansion is an increased emphasis on lightweight materials in car manufacture. South Korean automakers are moving toward utilizing more plastics to decrease car weight, improve fuel economy, and fulfill the government's severe pollution standards. Furthermore, revolutionary breakthroughs in polymer technology enable the manufacturing of high-performance plastics that can survive the harsh demands of automotive applications, making them a popular choice for parts such as bumpers, dashboards, and interior trimmings.

    As the South Korea automobile market confronts pressure to transition to electric and hybrid cars, there are several chances to investigate sustainable plastic alternatives. The government is aggressively pushing green technology efforts, including encouraging firms to study biodegradable or recycled materials for automobile uses. This transition is consistent with the national aim of lowering carbon emissions and developing an eco-friendly vehicle environment, creating a huge potential for market participants to invest in and create sustainable plastic solutions.

    Recent trends show that vehicle manufacturers and plastic suppliers are working more closely together to develop and adapt to changing safety regulations and consumer preferences.

    With South Korea being a hub for automotive giants like Hyundai and Kia, there is a focus on creating a more integrated supply chain that incorporates advanced plastics into vehicle designs. The need for enhanced aesthetic appeal and improved durability of interior and exterior components is driving innovation in material development. Moreover, trends such as customized vehicles and smart technology are further pushing the demand for specialized automotive plastics. These developments highlight the dynamic nature of the South Korea Automotive Plastics Market and showcase the critical intersection of legislation, technology, and consumer behavior.

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

    South Korea Automotive Plastics Market Drivers

    Market Segment Insights

    South Korea Automotive Plastics Market Segment Insights:

    South Korea Automotive Plastics Market Segment Insights:

    Automotive Plastics Market Type Insights

    Automotive Plastics Market Type Insights

    The South Korea Automotive Plastics Market is a thriving segment of the automotive industry, driven by the increasing adoption of lightweight materials to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions in vehicles. Among the various types of automotive plastics, Polypropylene (PP) stands out due to its excellent resistance to chemicals and fatigue, making it an ideal choice for automotive components such as bumpers and interior panels.

    Furthermore, Polyurethane (PU) has gained significant attention for its versatility, being utilized in both rigid and flexible applications, which is crucial for making seating and insulation materials more efficient and comfortable.The PVC segment, meanwhile, is essential for producing various interior and exterior automotive elements, valued for its durability and cost-effectiveness, enabling manufacturers to balance quality and price. The 'Others' category encompasses a range of plastics that contribute to diverse functions in vehicle manufacturing. This encompasses less common types, which play particular roles in specific components, for instance, the use of high-performance plastics to achieve enhanced thermal stability and aesthetic appeal.

    Overall, the South Korea Automotive Plastics Market data indicates a robust growth trajectory, consistently aligned with the innovations in automotive technology and design, while catering to the increasing environmental regulations and consumer demands for sustainability in automotive manufacturing.As the automotive industry continues to evolve, there is an expanding range of innovations and applications within the segments of polypropylene, polyurethane, and PVC, highlighting their significance in contributing to advanced vehicle designs and lighter materials.

    This direction not only facilitates enhanced performance but also encourages opportunities for manufacturers to explore and develop new material formulations that meet the stringent specifications of modern automotive design. The market growth is supported by favorable government policies that promote sustainability within the automotive sector, further enhancing the competitiveness of South Korean automotive plastics on a global scale.Emerging trends such as electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous driving technology also open new avenues for the use of advanced plastics, with a strong emphasis on weight reduction, recyclability, and durability, ensuring that plastics remain an essential component of automotive engineering methodologies.

    Automotive Plastics Market Application Insights

    Automotive Plastics Market Application Insights

    The South Korea Automotive Plastics Market is increasingly defined by its diverse application spectrum, which includes Interior, Exterior, Under the Hood, Powertrain, and Others. The Interior segment plays a crucial role in enhancing vehicle aesthetics and comfort, incorporating elements such as dashboard components, seating, and trims that contribute to weight reduction and design flexibility.

    Meanwhile, the Exterior segment focuses on bumpers and body panels, where plastics offer durability and resistance to environmental factors, appealing to manufacturers seeking lightweight materials for improved fuel efficiency.The Under the Hood and Powertrain applications are essential for performance, as these plastics endure high temperatures and pressures, contributing to improved vehicle efficiency and reduced overall weight. Moreover, the inclusion of other applications highlights innovation, with advanced materials being utilized in various automotive systems.

    As South Korea continues to advance in automotive technology, the growing emphasis on sustainability further drives the development of these application areas within the automotive plastics segment, influencing market dynamics and opportunities for growth.The increasing integration of advanced manufacturing techniques and a shift towards electric vehicles in South Korea are expected to strengthen the demand within this market, showcasing a significant transformation in automotive design and engineering.

    Get more detailed insights about South Korea Automotive Plastics Market Research Report - Forecast by 2035

    Regional Insights

    Key Players and Competitive Insights

    The competitive landscape of the South Korea Automotive Plastics Market is characterized by dynamic growth driven by advancements in automotive technology and an increasing demand for lighter, more fuel-efficient vehicles. As automakers shift toward the use of advanced materials to enhance performance and sustainability, the role of automotive plastics has become more critical. This market is driven by a mix of domestic production and international player involvement, where local and global manufacturers are keenly competing to capture market share.

    The growing emphasis on electric vehicles and the resultant demand for innovative automotive components further intensifies competition among key players, making it a fertile ground for new entrants and established companies alike.Samsung SDI, a prominent player in the South Korea Automotive Plastics Market, leverages its strong market position by focusing on high-quality products that meet the rigorous demands of the automotive industry. The company's capabilities in battery production and materials science contribute to its strength in developing advanced composite plastics that enhance vehicle performance while reducing weight.

    Samsung SDI's innovation in this sector is substantiated by its commitment to research and development, ensuring that it stays ahead of emerging trends. Its established local manufacturing capabilities contribute to a robust supply chain, allowing for efficient logistics and quicker response times to market changes, thereby enhancing its competitive edge in the domestic market.SABIC has made a significant impact on the South Korea Automotive Plastics Market through its diverse range of innovative materials and solutions tailored for the automotive sector.

    Offering advanced polymers and specialty thermoplastics, SABIC supports automakers in achieving lightweight and durable designs that comply with regulatory standards while enhancing aesthetic appeal and functionality. The company’s extensive market presence is underscored by various strategic partnerships and collaborations within the local automotive industry, positioning itself as a go-to supplier for high-performance automotive plastics. SABIC has also been active in mergers and acquisitions, strengthening its technological capabilities and expanding its portfolio of high-performance materials. By continually investing in sustainability and product innovation, SABIC enhances its reputation, making it a formidable competitor in the South Korean automotive plastics space.

    Key Companies in the South Korea Automotive Plastics Market market include

    Industry Developments

    Recent developments in the South Korea Automotive Plastics Market reflect a growing emphasis on sustainability and innovation. Companies like Hyundai Motor Group and LG Chem are increasingly adopting eco-friendly materials for vehicle manufacturing, responding to consumer demand for greener alternatives. Additionally, the market has observed notable investments in research and development as firms aim to enhance material performance and reduce weight for improved fuel efficiency. In September 2023, Samsung SDI announced advancements in battery technology that incorporate lightweight plastic components, further contributing to sustainable automotive design.The market landscape has also been shaped by significant mergers and acquisitions.

    In June 2023, Hanwha Total completed its acquisition of a local plastics manufacturing facility to expand its product offerings, positioning itself in the automotive segment. Throughout the past two years, companies such as BASF and Dupont have introduced innovative polymer solutions aimed at meeting stringent automotive regulations, driving competition. Overall, the South Korean automotive plastics sector is becoming increasingly dynamic, reflecting broader trends in technology, sustainability, and market consolidation among key players like JSR Corporation, Kraton Corporation, and Lotte Chemical.

    Market Segmentation

    Outlook

    • INTERIOR
    • Exterior
    • Under the hood
    • Powertrain
    • Others

    Report Scope

    Report Attribute/Metric Source: Details
    MARKET SIZE 2018 1.2(USD Billion)
    MARKET SIZE 2024 1.5(USD Billion)
    MARKET SIZE 2035 3.0(USD Billion)
    COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR) 6.504% (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 Samsung SDI, SABIC, Korea Engineering Plastics, Hyundai Motor Group, Hanwha Total, Dupont, JSR Corporation, LG Chem, Toray Industries, Celanese, Kraton Corporation, Mitsubishi Chemical, Lotte Chemical, BASF, Asahi Kasei
    SEGMENTS COVERED Type, Application
    KEY MARKET OPPORTUNITIES Lightweight materials for fuel efficiency, Advanced composites for electric vehicles, Sustainable bio-based plastics adoption, Increased demand for interior aesthetics, Growth in automotive electronics integration
    KEY MARKET DYNAMICS rising environmental regulations, increasing lightweight materials demand, technological advancements in manufacturing, growth in electric vehicles, consumer preference for customization
    COUNTRIES COVERED South Korea

    Market Highlights

    Author
    Chitranshi Jaiswal
    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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    FAQs

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

    The South Korea Automotive Plastics Market is expected to be valued at 1.5 billion USD in 2024.

    What will be the market valuation of the South Korea Automotive Plastics Market by 2035?

    By 2035, the market is projected to grow to a valuation of 3.0 billion USD.

    What is the anticipated compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for the South Korea Automotive Plastics Market from 2025 to 2035?

    The market is expected to experience a CAGR of 6.504% from 2025 to 2035.

    Which companies are considered key players in the South Korea Automotive Plastics Market?

    Major players in the market include Samsung SDI, SABIC, Korea Engineering Plastics, Hyundai Motor Group, and Hanwha Total.

    How is the South Korea Automotive Plastics Market segmented by type in 2024?

    The market is divided into four key segments: Polypropylene valued at 0.45 billion USD, Polyurethane at 0.3 billion USD, PVC at 0.4 billion USD, and Others at 0.35 billion USD in 2024.

    What growth opportunities are present in the South Korea Automotive Plastics Market?

    With increasing demand for lightweight and durable materials, the market presents growth opportunities particularly in the segments of Polypropylene and Polyurethane.

    What market size is projected for Polypropylene in the South Korea Automotive Plastics Market by 2035?

    The market size for Polypropylene is projected to reach 0.9 billion USD by 2035.

    What are the challenges faced by the South Korea Automotive Plastics Market?

    Challenges in the market include the need for recycling solutions and regulatory pressures on plastic use.

    What is the expected market value for PVC in the South Korea Automotive Plastics Market by 2035?

    The market value for PVC is forecasted to be 0.8 billion USD by 2035.

    What impact does the global economic scenario have on the South Korea Automotive Plastics Market?

    The global economic landscape can influence raw material prices and demand fluctuations in the automotive plastics sector.

    1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
    2. Market Overview
    3. Key Findings
    4. Market Segmentation
    5. Competitive Landscape
    6. Challenges and Opportunities
    7. Future Outlook
    8. MARKET INTRODUCTION
    9. Definition
    10. Scope of the study
    11. Research Objective
    12. Assumption
    13. Limitations
    14. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
    15. Overview
    16. Data Mining
    17. Secondary Research
    18. Primary Research
    19. Primary Interviews and Information Gathering Process
    20. Breakdown of Primary Respondents
    21. Forecasting Model
    22. Market Size Estimation
    23. Bottom-Up Approach
    24. Top-Down Approach
    25. Data Triangulation
    26. Validation
    27. MARKET DYNAMICS
    28. Overview
    29. Drivers
    30. Restraints
    31. Opportunities
    32. MARKET FACTOR ANALYSIS
    33. Value chain Analysis
    34. Porter's Five Forces Analysis
    35. Bargaining Power of Suppliers
    36. Bargaining Power of Buyers
    37. Threat of New Entrants
    38. Threat of Substitutes
    39. Intensity of Rivalry
    40. COVID-19 Impact Analysis
    41. Market Impact Analysis
    42. Regional Impact
    43. Opportunity and Threat Analysis
    44. South Korea Automotive Plastics Market, BY Type (USD Billion)
    45. Polypropylene
    46. Polyurethane
    47. PVC
    48. Others
    49. South Korea Automotive Plastics Market, BY Application (USD Billion)
    50. INTERIOR
    51. Exterior
    52. Under the hood
    53. Powertrain
    54. Others
    55. Competitive Landscape
    56. Overview
    57. Competitive Analysis
    58. Market share Analysis
    59. Major Growth Strategy in the Automotive Plastics Market
    60. Competitive Benchmarking
    61. Leading Players in Terms of Number of Developments in the Automotive Plastics Market
    62. Key developments and growth strategies
    63. New Product Launch/Service Deployment
    64. Merger & Acquisitions
    65. Joint Ventures
    66. Major Players Financial Matrix
    67. Sales and Operating Income
    68. Major Players R&D Expenditure. 2023
    69. Company Profiles
    70. Samsung SDI
    71. Financial Overview
    72. Products Offered
    73. Key Developments
    74. SWOT Analysis
    75. Key Strategies
    76. SABIC
    77. Financial Overview
    78. Products Offered
    79. Key Developments
    80. SWOT Analysis
    81. Key Strategies
    82. Korea Engineering Plastics
    83. Financial Overview
    84. Products Offered
    85. Key Developments
    86. SWOT Analysis
    87. Key Strategies
    88. Hyundai Motor Group
    89. Financial Overview
    90. Products Offered
    91. Key Developments
    92. SWOT Analysis
    93. Key Strategies
    94. Hanwha Total
    95. Financial Overview
    96. Products Offered
    97. Key Developments
    98. SWOT Analysis
    99. Key Strategies
    100. Dupont
    101. Financial Overview
    102. Products Offered
    103. Key Developments
    104. SWOT Analysis
    105. Key Strategies
    106. JSR Corporation
    107. Financial Overview
    108. Products Offered
    109. Key Developments
    110. SWOT Analysis
    111. Key Strategies
    112. LG Chem
    113. Financial Overview
    114. Products Offered
    115. Key Developments
    116. SWOT Analysis
    117. Key Strategies
    118. Toray Industries
    119. Financial Overview
    120. Products Offered
    121. Key Developments
    122. SWOT Analysis
    123. Key Strategies
    124. Celanese
    125. Financial Overview
    126. Products Offered
    127. Key Developments
    128. SWOT Analysis
    129. Key Strategies
    130. Kraton Corporation
    131. Financial Overview
    132. Products Offered
    133. Key Developments
    134. SWOT Analysis
    135. Key Strategies
    136. Mitsubishi Chemical
    137. Financial Overview
    138. Products Offered
    139. Key Developments
    140. SWOT Analysis
    141. Key Strategies
    142. Lotte Chemical
    143. Financial Overview
    144. Products Offered
    145. Key Developments
    146. SWOT Analysis
    147. Key Strategies
    148. BASF
    149. Financial Overview
    150. Products Offered
    151. Key Developments
    152. SWOT Analysis
    153. Key Strategies
    154. Asahi Kasei
    155. Financial Overview
    156. Products Offered
    157. Key Developments
    158. SWOT Analysis
    159. Key Strategies
    160. References
    161. Related Reports
    162. South Korea Automotive Plastics Market SIZE ESTIMATES & FORECAST, BY TYPE, 2019-2035 (USD Billions)
    163. South Korea Automotive Plastics Market SIZE ESTIMATES & FORECAST, BY APPLICATION, 2019-2035 (USD Billions)
    164. PRODUCT LAUNCH/PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT/APPROVAL
    165. ACQUISITION/PARTNERSHIP
    166. MARKET SYNOPSIS
    167. SOUTH KOREA AUTOMOTIVE PLASTICS MARKET ANALYSIS BY TYPE
    168. SOUTH KOREA AUTOMOTIVE PLASTICS MARKET ANALYSIS BY APPLICATION
    169. KEY BUYING CRITERIA OF AUTOMOTIVE PLASTICS MARKET
    170. RESEARCH PROCESS OF MRFR
    171. DRO ANALYSIS OF AUTOMOTIVE PLASTICS MARKET
    172. DRIVERS IMPACT ANALYSIS: AUTOMOTIVE PLASTICS MARKET
    173. RESTRAINTS IMPACT ANALYSIS: AUTOMOTIVE PLASTICS MARKET
    174. SUPPLY / VALUE CHAIN: AUTOMOTIVE PLASTICS MARKET
    175. AUTOMOTIVE PLASTICS MARKET, BY TYPE, 2024 (% SHARE)
    176. AUTOMOTIVE PLASTICS MARKET, BY TYPE, 2019 TO 2035 (USD Billions)
    177. AUTOMOTIVE PLASTICS MARKET, BY APPLICATION, 2024 (% SHARE)
    178. AUTOMOTIVE PLASTICS MARKET, BY APPLICATION, 2019 TO 2035 (USD Billions)
    179. BENCHMARKING OF MAJOR COMPETITORS

    South Korea Automotive Plastics Market Segmentation

    Automotive Plastics Market By Type (USD Billion, 2019-2035)
    • Polypropylene
    • Polyurethane
    • PVC
    • Others
    Automotive Plastics Market By Application (USD Billion, 2019-2035)
    • INTERIOR
    • Exterior
    • Under the hood
    • Powertrain
    • Others
    Report Infographic
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    “I am very pleased with how market segments have been defined in a relevant way for my purposes (such as "Portable Freezers & refrigerators" and "last-mile"). In general the report is well structured. Thanks very much for your efforts.”

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    Case Study

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