South Korea Dietary Supplements Market Summary

The South Korea dietary supplements market size was estimated at USD 4.11 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.4% from 2025 to 2030. As one of the most rapidly aging populations in the world, South Korea is experiencing a substantial increase in demand for dietary supplements designed to address age-related health issues. These include products targeting joint support, cognitive function, and bone density. Adults across the country are increasingly adopting preventive approaches by using supplements to manage and delay the onset of chronic illnesses, positioning them as a major driving force behind market growth.

In addition to demographic factors, the rising prevalence of lifestyle-related health conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension is accelerating the adoption of dietary supplements. These diseases are often associated with shifts in dietary patterns and sedentary lifestyles that are prevalent in urban settings. As a result, consumers are becoming more health-conscious and turning to supplements as a convenient and natural way to support disease prevention and improve overall well-being.

Key Market Trends & Insights

• South Korean consumers are playing an active role in transforming the dietary supplements landscape by prioritizing preventive care over reactive treatment. This change in behavior has been magnified by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which heightened awareness of immune health and prompted more people to adopt daily wellness routines. The post-pandemic environment has particularly influenced demand for supplements that support immunity, stress relief, and recovery from fatigue, leading to increased product innovation and market expansion.
• The vitamins segment emerged as the dominant category in the South Korea dietary supplements market in 2024. This dominance reflects a strong public emphasis on illness prevention and is further supported by widespread vitamin deficiencies, especially among elderly individuals and office workers who typically spend less time outdoors. Deficiencies in vitamins D, C, and B-complex are particularly common and have prompted higher consumption of supplements to bridge nutritional gaps and maintain long-term health.
• The tablets segment held the largest revenue share, accounting for 33.2% in 2024. Tablets remain a preferred format for many consumers due to their ease of use, long shelf life, portability, and standardized dosage. These characteristics make tablets a reliable and convenient choice for daily consumption, particularly among older adults and those managing multiple supplement regimens.
• The over-the-counter (OTC) segment led the South Korea dietary supplements market in 2024. Consumers increasingly purchase dietary supplements from pharmacies, health food stores, and online retailers without the need for prescriptions. This trend is driven by rising health literacy and the desire for self-directed health management. South Koreans are empowered to make informed decisions regarding products for fatigue, immune support, and stress, which aligns with their proactive approach to daily health maintenance.
• In terms of application, the immunity segment was the leading category in 2024. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly influenced consumer behavior, placing immune health at the forefront of personal wellness priorities. Ongoing concerns related to pollution, extended working hours, inadequate sleep, and fast-paced lifestyles have led to a heightened need for immunity-boosting supplements that can support the body’s resilience against daily stressors.
• Adults represented the largest consumer group in the South Korean dietary supplements market, accounting for a revenue share of 63.4% in 2024. This demographic, especially individuals aged 30 to 59, is particularly focused on managing health issues such as stress, low energy, aging-related changes, and metabolic functions. Their purchasing power and health consciousness make them a central target for dietary supplement brands and retailers.
• Offline distribution channels dominated the market with a 73.9% revenue share in 2024. South Korean consumers continue to favor physical retail options such as pharmacies, clinics, and health stores for purchasing supplements. These locations offer the advantage of face-to-face consultations with pharmacists, enabling consumers to make confident and well-informed choices. The preference for trusted professional guidance and tangible product verification reinforces the dominance of offline channels in the market.

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Market Size & Forecast

• 2024 Market Size: USD 4.11 Billion
• 2030 Projected Market Size: USD 7.38 Billion
• CAGR (2025 - 2030): 10.4%

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

Some of the key companies operating in the market include Amway Corp.; Abbott; Bayer AG; Glanbia plc; and others.

• Amway Korea, leveraging its Nutrilite brand since the 1990s, offers scientifically backed, plant-based supplements for immune support, wellness, and beauty, aligning with Korean consumer preferences and building strong trust.
• Herbalife International, Inc. (functioning as Korea Herbalife Co., Ltd. in South Korea) focuses on nutrition, weight management, and sports performance through its direct-selling model. Despite MLM scrutiny, its functional nutrition products, personalized consultations, and local campaigns have fostered a loyal customer base and strong brand trust in the market.

Key Players

• Amway Corp.
• Abbott
• Bayer AG
• Glanbia plc
• Pfizer Inc.
• NU SKIN
• GlaxoSmithKline plc
• Herbalife International, Inc.

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Conclusion

The South Korea dietary supplements market is thriving, driven by its aging population, rising health awareness, and a shift toward preventive care. With chronic lifestyle diseases on the rise, adults increasingly turn to supplements for immune support, energy, and age-related health concerns. Vitamins and tablets dominate due to their convenience and effectiveness, while OTC availability and offline retail strengthen consumer access. The pandemic's impact has solidified a culture of wellness and daily supplementation. As innovation continues and health consciousness deepens, South Korea's dietary supplements market is set for sustained growth, cementing its place as a dynamic sector in the broader health industry.