Overview:

The South Korean stevia market is expected to reach USD 18.5 million value in 2025. The industry is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 9.7% from 2025 to 2035, achieving an estimated value of USD 45.9 million by the end of the forecast period.

Robust industry expansion is being driven by the increasing demand for natural, low-calorie, and healthier sweetener options. As consumer awareness about the health risks associated with excessive sugar consumption, such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular issues, grows, a significant shift towards health-conscious food choices is occurring within Korea.

The long-recognized health hazards of traditional sugar consumption have led many consumers to seek alternative sweeteners that offer sweetness without the caloric impact. Stevia, a botanical sweetener derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, has emerged as a preferred alternative due to its calorie-free nature, low glycemic index, and perceived superiority over artificial sweeteners and conventional sugar.

Consequently, this botanical derived product is increasingly being incorporated into a wide array of food applications, spanning from beverages and dairy products to baked goods and processed items, reflecting its growing acceptance and versatility.

Beyond evolving consumer preferences, initiatives by the Korean government aimed at promoting healthier dietary habits have played a crucial role in bolstering industry development. Stevia extract has received regulatory approval for use in food and beverage products within South Korea, further facilitating its broader application across the sector.

As statutory measures and public health campaigns encourage a move towards healthier eating, food manufacturers are finding it essential to integrate natural ingredients such as this plant-based sweetener into their product formulations to attract and retain health-aware consumer segments.

Furthermore, global inclinations towards clean-label products and plant-derived ingredients have influenced the South Korean food and beverage landscape, aligning well with the expanding industry for botanical sweeteners. The sustained trend towards natural and organic components, coupled with a focus on ethical and sustainable sourcing practices, is propelling this industry’s expansion.

With these trends expected to continue, the plant-derived sweetener is poised to become a fundamental ingredient in the South Korean food industry, offering consumers a viable and healthier option for reducing their sugar intake.