South Korea Seeds Market Reserach Report, 2030

The seed market in South Korea is a critical component of the nation's agricultural sector, playing a significant role in sustaining food production and supporting the livelihoods of farmers. Given the country's limited arable land and a growing population, the need for high-quality seeds that can enhance crop yields and resist diseases is more vital than ever. South Korea's agriculture primarily focuses on crops such as rice, vegetables, fruits, and grains, with rice being the most culturally and economically significant. The market has experienced a gradual shift from traditional seed varieties to hybrid and genetically modified seeds that offer higher productivity, improved resistance to pests and diseases, and better adaptability to changing climatic conditions. The South Korean government actively promotes agricultural innovation through various policies, subsidies, and research initiatives aimed at improving seed quality and increasing agricultural efficiency. The Rural Development Administration (RDA) plays a central role in seed research and development, collaborating with private companies, universities, and international organizations to create high-yielding, drought-tolerant, and disease-resistant seed varieties tailored to local agricultural conditions. The government's focus on food security, rural development, and technological advancement has further accelerated the modernization of the seed market, while advancements in precision agriculture and biotechnology have transformed the traditional practices of seed planting, enhancing productivity and sustainability. The rise of advanced agricultural practices, such as precision farming, smart agriculture, and hydroponics, has increased the demand for specialized seeds that cater to these modern techniques, further diversifying the seed market. According to the research report, " South Korea Seed Market Outlook, 2030," published by Bonafide Research, the South Korea Seed market is anticipated to add to more than USD 290 Million by 2025–30.The competitive landscape of South Korea's seed market is characterized by the presence of domestic seed companies, multinational corporations, research institutions, and governmental organizations collaborating to address the evolving needs of the agriculture sector. Prominent domestic players like Nongwoo Bio have established a strong foothold, while global giants such as Bayer CropScience, Syngenta, and Corteva Agriscience bring advanced research capabilities, innovative seed technologies, and extensive distribution networks. These companies compete to develop high-performing seeds that cater to the diverse agricultural needs of South Korean farmers, from conventional open-pollinated seeds to genetically modified and hybrid seeds. The growing awareness of environmental sustainability and health-conscious consumption has fueled a demand for organic seeds, leading to increased research and development of non-GMO, pesticide-free seed varieties. The stringent regulatory framework governing genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in South Korea presents challenges for multinational companies seeking to introduce GMO seeds into the market. The government enforces strict biosafety protocols to ensure ecological protection, public health, and food safety, while public sentiment remains cautious regarding genetically modified crops. As climate change continues to impact agriculture, there is a growing emphasis on developing seeds that can withstand unpredictable weather conditions, such as drought-resistant, salt-tolerant, and climate-resilient varieties, which are crucial for safeguarding agricultural output. Collaborative research efforts between universities, research institutions, and private agribusinesses drive the innovation of these advanced seed technologies, fostering sustainable agricultural practices that can address the challenges of limited arable land, changing environmental conditions, and a growing population. Additionally, the increasing popularity of urban farming, vertical agriculture, and indoor farming in metropolitan areas has led to a rising demand for specialized seeds that thrive in controlled environments, further expanding the scope of the seed market.

What's Inside a Actual Market Research`s industry report?

Asia-Pacific dominates the market and is the largest and fastest-growing market in the animal growth promoters industry globally

Download Sample

Genetically modified seeds, while recognized for their potential in improving crop yields, disease resistance, and overall agricultural efficiency, face significant regulatory restrictions due to strict biosafety laws and cautious consumer sentiment. South Korea has implemented stringent policies to regulate the cultivation, distribution, and import of GM seeds, largely driven by public apprehension about the long-term health and environmental impacts of genetically engineered crops. The limited use of GM seeds is primarily confined to research institutions, experimental agricultural projects, and controlled cultivation for non-food purposes. Nonetheless, there is a growing interest in biotechnology and genetic engineering aimed at addressing pressing agricultural challenges, such as climate change, pest infestations, and soil degradation. Research institutions and agricultural universities actively explore advanced genetic technologies to develop crops with enhanced resilience to extreme weather conditions and improved nutritional profiles. Conversely, conventional seeds dominate the South Korean seed market, reflecting a broader preference for traditional agricultural practices and natural cultivation methods. These seeds are extensively utilized by farmers across the country for staple crops and specialty produce, aligning with the government's initiatives to promote sustainable agriculture, food security, and rural development. The increasing consumer demand for organic, pesticide-free, and naturally cultivated products has further fueled the preference for conventional seeds, with domestic seed companies focusing on developing high-quality, hybrid, and disease-resistant varieties. Cereals and grains, including rice, barley, and wheat, are vital components of the market, with rice holding particular significance as the staple food for the majority of the population. The cultivation of rice is deeply embedded in South Korean culture, with substantial government investments aimed at developing high-yield, disease-resistant, and climate-adaptive rice varieties to support self-sufficiency and reduce reliance on imports. Advanced breeding programs focus on improving grain quality, taste, and cooking characteristics to meet consumer preferences while ensuring resilience to environmental stresses such as droughts, floods, and pests. Barley and wheat are also grown for traditional dishes, animal feed, and brewing purposes, contributing to the broader agricultural landscape. Oilseeds and pulses, such as soybeans, peanuts, and sesame, are crucial for South Korea's food industry, as they are essential ingredients in staple foods like tofu, soybean paste, soy sauce, and sesame oil. The demand for these crops extends to industrial applications, processed foods, and health products, driving efforts to enhance yield, pest resistance, and adaptability. Fruits and vegetables, including apples, pears, peppers, cabbages, and strawberries, play a significant role in domestic consumption and export markets. The production of high-quality fruits and vegetables is supported by greenhouse farming, controlled-environment agriculture, and advanced seed technologies that ensure consistency, improved taste, and disease resistance. Additionally, the "others" category includes specialty crops like ginseng, medicinal herbs, and ornamental plants, which hold cultural, medicinal, and economic value. These crops cater to niche markets and are increasingly popular for health products, traditional medicine, and functional foods. Commercial seeds are developed through rigorous research and breeding programs conducted by both domestic and international seed companies, focusing on improving crop yields, enhancing resistance to pests and diseases, and optimizing adaptability to various environmental conditions. These seeds are designed to maximize agricultural efficiency, support large-scale production, and meet the growing demand for high-quality produce in both domestic and export markets. The expansion of smart farming technologies, such as precision agriculture, hydroponics, and vertical farming, has further boosted the adoption of commercial seeds, especially for high-value crops like fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants. International collaborations and partnerships with global seed companies have facilitated the introduction of advanced seed technologies, including hybrid seeds, patented seed varieties, and genetically enhanced crops. However, saved seeds continue to hold cultural and practical significance, particularly among smallholder farmers, rural communities, and traditional agriculturalists. These seeds are often preserved from previous harvests and used for staple crops like rice, barley, and beans, maintaining local biodiversity, cultural heritage, and traditional farming practices. Saved seeds are valued for their adaptability to specific local conditions, cost-effectiveness, and the preservation of indigenous crop varieties that have been cultivated for generations. Government programs and non-profit organizations also promote the preservation of heirloom seeds, local crop varieties, and indigenous plant species to ensure biodiversity conservation and food sovereignty. The balance between commercial and saved seeds captures the multifaceted nature of South Korea's agricultural landscape, where modern technology and traditional wisdom coexist to create a resilient, adaptable, and sustainable seed market.

Make this report your own

We're excited to discuss your needs and our solutions. Let's schedule a call.

Ask an Expert

Nikita Jabrela

Business Development Manager

Considered in this report • Historic Year: 2019 • Base year: 2024 • Estimated year: 2025 • Forecast year: 2030 Aspects covered in this report • Seeds Market with its value and forecast along with its segments • Various drivers and challenges • On-going trends and developments • Top profiled companies • Strategic recommendation By Type • Genetically Modified Seed • Conventional Seed

Don’t pay for what you don’t need. Save 30%

Customise your report by selecting specific countries or regions

Specify Scope Now

By Crop Type • Cereals & Grains • Oilseeds & Pulses • Fruits & Vegetables • Others By Availability • Commercial Seeds • Saved Seeds The approach of the report: This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analyzing the government generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources. Intended audience This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to agriculture industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.