Korea Disposable Cutlery Market

Korea Disposable Cutlery Market 2025–2035

The disposable cutlery market in Korea is poised for significant expansion, reaching USD 51.5 million by 2035, with a CAGR of 7.1% from 2025 to 2035. The rising emphasis on sustainable dining solutions, along with an increase in food delivery services, convenience stores, and eco-conscious regulations, is driving market demand.

Key Market Trends Shaping the Industry

1. Shift Towards Sustainable & Biodegradable Cutlery

Consumers and businesses are increasingly adopting eco-friendly disposable cutlery, including bioplastics, sugarcane bagasse, bamboo, and cornstarch-based alternatives. Korea’s strict environmental regulations on single-use plastics are accelerating this transition.

2. Growth of Online & Takeout Food Services

With a booming online food delivery sector, led by platforms like Coupang Eats, Baedal Minjok, and Yogiyo, there is a sharp rise in the demand for high-quality disposable cutlery to maintain hygiene and convenience.

3. Rising Adoption in Hospitality & Tourism

Korea’s thriving tourism industry, especially in Seoul, Busan, and Jeju, is increasing the need for disposable utensils in hotels, restaurants, street food vendors, and food courts. The hospitality sector is actively seeking sustainable and cost-effective disposable dining solutions.

4. Urbanization & Lifestyle Changes Boosting Demand

Fast-paced urban lifestyles are leading to greater reliance on ready-to-eat meals, driving disposable cutlery consumption. Convenience stores, supermarkets, and quick-service restaurants are key contributors to this demand.

Market Breakdown & Segment Analysis

Category	Market Share (2025)	Growth Factors
Product Type
Disposable Spoons	57.9%	Preferred for soups, desserts & takeout meals
Disposable Forks	23.5%	Increasing popularity in fast food & Western cuisines
Disposable Knives	18.6%	Higher adoption in meat-based and full-course meals
End-Use Industry
Food Service Sector	60.6%	Dominance in restaurants, cafes & catering businesses
Institutional Food Services	22.7%	Hospitals, corporate cafeterias & schools driving demand
Household Usage	16.7%	Convenience-seeking consumers boosting at-home use
Fabrication Process
Thermoforming	46.5%	Cost-efficient and mass production-friendly
Injection Molding	34.8%	Preferred for premium & biodegradable cutlery
Die Cutting	18.7%	High precision & customization demand

Regional Insights: Key Growth Areas

South Gyeongsang: Industrial & Commercial Growth Hub

• Strong demand for disposable cutlery in corporate cafeterias, food service outlets, and retail chains.
• Manufacturing & logistics infrastructure in the region supports cutlery production & distribution.

North Jeolla: Sustainability-Focused Market

• The province’s agricultural sector and eco-conscious consumer base are driving demand for biodegradable disposable cutlery.
• Government policies promoting green alternatives are influencing business purchasing trends.

South Jeolla & Jeju: Rising Tourism Influence

• Coastal tourism & seafood-based restaurants boost the need for disposable utensils.
• Hospitality businesses seek hygienic, eco-friendly solutions to comply with growing environmental mandates.

Challenges & Restraining Factors

• Stringent government policies on plastic cutlery are increasing compliance costs.
• High price sensitivity among small businesses limits premium product adoption.
• Recycling infrastructure challenges hinder mass adoption of compostable alternatives.

Competitive Landscape: Leading Companies in Korea

The Korean disposable cutlery market features local and international manufacturers competing on product innovation, sustainability, and affordability.

Key Players Include:

• Hyunjin Co. Ltd
• Chang Sung Band Co. Ltd
• Anhui Jialong Knives Manufacturing Co. Ltd
• Anchor Packaging
• Apollo Funds
• Biopak
• D&W Fine Pack
• Dart Container Corporation
• Hotpack Global
• Pactiv Evergreen
• Gold Plast

Competitive Strategies in the Market:

• Sustainability Investments: Companies are launching fully biodegradable and compostable cutlery.
• Acquisitions & Mergers: Leading firms are acquiring startups specializing in eco-friendly solutions.
• Strategic Partnerships: Collaborations with food service chains & e-commerce platforms are expanding distribution networks.

➡ Contact our advisory team for an in-depth competitive analysis of emerging and established players in the market.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the projected value of the disposable cutlery market in Korea by 2025?
The market is estimated to be valued at USD 28.8 million in 2025, with sustained growth expected.

2. What is the expected CAGR of the disposable cutlery market in Korea?
The market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 7.1% from 2025 to 2035.

3. What will be the market size of Korea’s disposable cutlery industry by 2035?
By 2035, the industry is projected to reach USD 51.5 million.

4. Which segment dominates the disposable cutlery industry in Korea?
The food service sector remains the largest consumer, contributing to 60.6% of the market share.

5. What factors are driving demand for disposable cutlery in Korea?

• Government push for sustainable alternatives
• Growth of food delivery and takeout culture
• Rising urbanization and convenience-driven lifestyle
• Expansion of the hospitality and tourism sector

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