South Korea Live Streaming Market Overview
As per MRFR analysis, the South Korea Live Streaming Market Size was estimated at 1.43 (USD Billion) in 2023. The South Korea Live Streaming Market Industry is expected to grow from 1.8(USD Billion) in 2024 to 22.18 (USD Billion) by 2035. The South Korea Live Streaming Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 25.65% during the forecast period (2025 - 2035).
Key South Korea Live Streaming Market Trends Highlighted
South Korea's Live Streaming Market is remarkably expanding due to various factors. The growing number of internet users and increasing use of mobile devices have created favorable conditions for live streaming services. The young population, which accounts for a large share of users on social media and digital audiences, also affects live streaming trends. This group prefers active and friendly content, so companies are doing their best to improve the user experience. Furthermore, more than 90% of South Koreans use the internet, which enables platforms to provide automated, convenient streaming services.
The convergence of live-streaming and e-commerce is one of the opportunities that can be explored in the South Korea Live Streaming Market. Shopping through live streaming broadcasts is more entertaining as brands can sell their products through direct interaction with customers. Moreover, there is a latent opportunity from the increased number of local creators, which can lead to more niche content that can foster community engagement. The frequent use of well-known influencers and stars is another way to strengthen the audience's interest in live broadcasting and drawing attention to live streaming events. There is an increase in content variety, with multiple genres, such as gaming, beauty, and education, being popularized.
South Korea streaming services are now prioritizing user-generated content, which invites audiences to actively participate in the creation and sharing of their personal live streams. Furthermore, new technologies such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are also starting to shape the production and consumption of live streaming content and make it more engaging. This overall strategy on content consumption is suitable for the South Korean population, which is deeply cultured and advanced with technology, confirming a great potential opportunity in the live streaming industry.

South Korea Live Streaming Market Drivers
Rising Internet Penetration and Mobile Usage
The South Korea Live Streaming Market industry is witnessing significant growth due to the continued rise in internet penetration and mobile device usage among the population. With over 95% of South Korea's population having access to the internet, there is a growing trend for users to engage in live streaming platforms. According to government statistics, the number of smartphone users in South Korea surged to approximately 47 million in 2022, reflecting a steady increase of approximately 2% annually over the last five years.This high rate of connectivity and mobile accessibility enables consumers to participate more actively in live streaming, whether for entertainment, e-commerce, or social interaction. Major organizations such as Naver and Kakao are leveraging this trend by enhancing their streaming services, thus ensuring that users have easy access to live content. This collective movement is creating a robust ecosystem that further fuels the growth of the South Korea Live Streaming Market.
Popularity of E-Sports and Online Gaming
The South Korea Live Streaming Market industry is significantly driven by the escalating popularity of e-sports and online gaming. In 2023, the e-sports market in South Korea was valued at around USD 1.1 billion, witnessing a compound growth rate reflecting the engagement of thousands of spectators tuning into live streams of competitive gaming events. Organizations such as the Korea e-Sports Association are at the forefront of promoting and organizing various tournaments, which are increasingly broadcast live on streaming platforms.This phenomenon not only captures the interest of gaming enthusiasts but also opens new revenue streams for sponsors and streaming services through advertising and partnerships. The South Korean government has also recognized the potential of e-sports, investing in infrastructure to enhance the viewing experience, further driving live streaming growth in the region.
Shift to Remote Work and Digital Events
The pandemic has accelerated the transition to remote work and digital events, significantly influencing the South Korea Live Streaming Market industry. Many businesses have turned to live streaming to host meetings, webinars, and promotional events to reach a wider audience without geographical constraints. A survey conducted by the Ministry of Science and ICT indicated that 72% of companies experienced a seamless transition to remote work setups, with many adopting live streaming practices to ensure business continuity.Large firms like Samsung have embraced these technologies, hosting product launches and corporate events via live streams, showcasing innovations, and engaging with customers in real-time. This shift is fostering a culture of digital communication, contributing to the continuous growth and expansion of the live streaming market in South Korea.
Increasing Investment in Content Creation and Influencer Marketing
The South Korea Live Streaming Market industry is further bolstered by increasing investments in content creation and influencer marketing. In 2022, local brands allocated a notable portion of their budgets towards collaborations with influencers, utilizing live streaming as a platform to enhance direct engagement with consumers. Over 70% of marketing professionals reported a significant return on investment from live streaming campaigns, demonstrating the effectiveness of this medium in reaching target audiences.Agencies like YG Entertainment are actively promoting their artists through live streaming sessions, capitalizing on the draw of celebrity influencers to attract viewers. Such collaboration between brands and content creators is creating a vibrant landscape that drives user engagement and solidifies the South Korea Live Streaming Market as a key player in the regional digital economy.
South Korea Live Streaming Market Segment Insights
Live Streaming Market Component Outlook Insights
The South Korea Live Streaming Market has shown a significant upward trend, reflecting a growing consumer base and the increasing importance of live streaming technology in various sectors such as entertainment, education, and retail. Within the Component Outlook, the market consists of vital components like Platforms and Services, each playing a pivotal role in shaping the overall ecosystem. Platforms, which serve as the primary medium for content distribution, have significantly transformed how audiences engage with digital content.
The rising popularity of mobile devices and high-speed internet has led to an increase in platform usage, enabling users to access live streaming content seamlessly.Services, on the other hand, encompass a wide array of functionalities that enhance the user experience, including live chat, analytics, and monetization options. The ongoing demand for high-quality content and interactive features drives innovation within these service offerings, ensuring that providers remain competitive.
As the South Korean government continues to promote digital content and e-commerce initiatives, the integration of advanced technologies like 5G and artificial intelligence will further revolutionize the live streaming sector.Opportunities abound in creating tailored experiences for niche markets, which could lead to substantial revenue growth for overall industry players. With the South Korean audience demonstrating a profound preference for engaging with live-streamed content, businesses aiming to capitalize on the South Korea Live Streaming Market must prioritize robust platforms and innovative services to meet the growing demand.

Live Streaming Market End-User Outlook Insights
The South Korea Live Streaming Market is experiencing robust growth, driven by a diverse range of end-users. The segment encompasses Media Entertainment, Esports, Events, Education, Retail, Government, and Other sectors. Media Entertainment remains a key player as streaming platforms are redefined through original content and interactive viewer experiences, capitalizing on the nation’s digital-savvy consumer base. Additionally, the Esports industry has gained momentum, with South Korea being a global leader, fostering community engagement and competitive tournaments, drawing in huge audiences.
Events, particularly virtual concerts and conferences, have become integral for interaction in recent years, while the Education sector is leveraging live streaming for remote learning solutions, making education more accessible. Retail businesses are increasingly integrating live streaming for enhanced customer engagement, creating a unique shopping experience. The Government also recognizes the potential of streaming in communication and public services, enhancing transparency and accessibility. The South Korea Live Streaming Market data reflects a continual evolution of user interaction and content delivery, with significant opportunities lying ahead in bridging these sectors through innovative technologies and platforms, thereby catering to a wide audience spectrum.
South Korea Live Streaming Market Key Players and Competitive Insights
The South Korea Live Streaming Market has become increasingly competitive, characterized by the rapid evolution of technology, consumer preferences, and the growing demand for digital content. Factors such as high-speed internet penetration, the proliferation of smartphones, and a young, tech-savvy population have contributed to the market's expansion. This landscape attracts both domestic and international players, each vying for a share of the pie by offering innovative platforms and unique content tailored to local tastes. As live streaming becomes synonymous with entertainment, social interaction, and information sharing, companies are increasingly focusing on enhancing user experience, integrating advanced features, and establishing strategic partnerships to solidify their position in this dynamic environment.
Tcast has established itself as a prominent player in the South Korea Live Streaming Market, leveraging its strength in providing a diverse range of content, including live broadcasts of shows, sports events, and real-time interaction with audiences. The company has created a strong brand presence thanks to its focus on local content that resonates well with Korean audiences. Tcast's commitment to user engagement, along with its reliable streaming quality, allows it to foster a loyal subscriber base. The platform's strategic collaborations with content creators and local production houses further enhance its offerings, ensuring a rich and varied viewing experience for its audience.
Additionally, Tcast has successfully utilized social media platforms to promote its live events and engage with viewers, thus expanding its reach and visibility in the competitive live streaming landscape.Tving stands out in the South Korea Live Streaming Market by providing a robust portfolio of on-demand and live content, encompassing various genres such as dramas, variety shows, and movies. One of Tving's key strengths lies in its strategic partnerships with major production companies, allowing it to offer exclusive content and attract a larger audience. The platform's user-friendly interface and personalized recommendations contribute to a superior user experience, setting it apart from competitors. Tving continues to innovate by incorporating advanced technology, such as AI-driven content suggestions and interactive features, to enhance viewer engagement. Additionally, the company has made significant moves in the merger and acquisition space, aligning with other streaming services to strengthen its market position and expand its content library. This combination of strategic offerings and continuous adaptation to consumer trends positions Tving as a formidable competitor in the South Korean live streaming sector.
Key Companies in the South Korea Live Streaming Market Include
- Tcast
- Tving
- Naver
- Watcha
- Vlive
- Melon
- Dlive
- AfreecaTV
- LG Uplus
- Genie Music
- Facebook
- SK Telecom
- Kakao
- YouTube
- Twitch
South Korea Live Streaming Market Industry Developments
The South Korea Live Streaming Market has witnessed notable developments recently. In December 2023, it was reported that Tving expanded its partnerships with major content creators to enhance its live streaming offerings. Meanwhile, AfreecaTV has seen significant growth in viewership, leading to a surge in advertising revenues. In November 2023, LG Uplus announced a new live streaming package targeting sports enthusiasts, aiming to leverage the popularity of e-sports. The valuation for Dlive has shown a marked increase amid its rising user base, which reflects a broader trend in consumer preference for interactive streaming experiences.
Moreover, in January 2023, Kakao completed an acquisition of a smaller streaming service, further consolidating its position in the market. Notably, Melon has experienced growth through exclusive music streaming rights, which has attracted a larger subscriber base. The overall market sentiment in South Korea is buoyant, with companies like Naver and YouTube continuously innovating their offerings. The last two to three years have shown a shift in consumer behavior towards more live and interactive content, leading to richer engagement and increased competition among major players such as Twitch and SK Telecom.
Live Streaming Market Segmentation Insights
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Live Streaming Market Component Outlook
- Platforms
- Services
-
Live Streaming Market End-User Outlook
- Media Entertainment
- Esports
- Events
- Education
- Retail
- Government
- Others
Report Scope:
Report Attribute/Metric Source: |
Details |
MARKET SIZE 2018 |
1.43(USD Billion) |
MARKET SIZE 2024 |
1.8(USD Billion) |
MARKET SIZE 2035 |
22.18(USD Billion) |
COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR) |
25.65% (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 |
Tcast, Tving, Naver, Watcha, Vlive, Melon, Dlive, AfreecaTV, LG Uplus, Genie Music, Facebook, SK Telecom, Kakao, YouTube, Twitch |
SEGMENTS COVERED |
Component Outlook, End-User Outlook |
KEY MARKET OPPORTUNITIES |
Mobile gaming integration, Influencer marketing expansion, E-commerce live streaming growth, Virtual events and concerts, Educational content delivery |
KEY MARKET DYNAMICS |
increased mobile penetration, demand for interactive content, rise of e-sports, social media integration, diverse content creators |
COUNTRIES COVERED |
South Korea |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
The South Korea Live Streaming Market is expected to be valued at 1.8 USD Billion in 2024.
By 2035, the South Korea Live Streaming Market is projected to be valued at 22.18 USD Billion.
The expected CAGR for the South Korea Live Streaming Market from 2025 to 2035 is 25.65 percent.
The Platforms component of the South Korea Live Streaming Market is expected to reach 8.75 USD Billion by 2035.
The Services segment is projected to be valued at 13.43 USD Billion in the South Korea Live Streaming Market by 2035.
Some key players in the South Korea Live Streaming Market include Tcast, Naver, and AfreecaTV.
In 2024, the value of the Platforms component in the South Korea Live Streaming Market is expected to be 0.72 USD Billion.
Increased internet penetration and growing demand for on-demand content are driving the growth of the South Korea Live Streaming Market.
Emerging trends in the South Korea Live Streaming Market include interactive content and the rise of user-generated streams.
Intense competition among major players like YouTube and Twitch is fostering innovation and improvement in service offerings in the South Korea Live Streaming Market.