South Korea Paper Cup Market
South Korea Paper Cup Market Analysis & Future Growth 2025-2035
Market Overview & Growth Projections
The paper cup market in South Korea is expected to witness substantial growth, with a projected valuation of USD 339 million by 2025, reaching USD 673 million by 2035, at a CAGR of 8.1%. The increasing demand for eco-friendly disposable packaging, particularly in coffee shops, convenience stores, and quick-service restaurants (QSRs), is a key factor driving the expansion of the market. With stringent government regulations phasing out single-use plastics, businesses are increasingly adopting sustainable and biodegradable paper cups.
| Market Attributes |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Market Size in 2025 | USD 339 million |
|
Market Size in 2035 | USD 673 million |
|
CAGR (2025 – 2035) | 8.1% |
Key Market Trends Driving Growth
1. Shift Toward Sustainable & Biodegradable Paper Cups
- PLA-coated & compostable paper cups are expected to account for 48% of total market sales by 2035.
- South Korea’s ban on plastic straws, lids, and cups is accelerating demand for eco-friendly paper alternatives.
2. Growth in Coffee Culture & On-the-Go Beverage Consumption
- The foodservice industry, led by coffee chains and convenience stores, represents over 70% of paper cup demand.
- The increasing preference for takeout beverages, particularly among working professionals, is fueling the growth of double-wall insulated and ripple-wall cups.
3. Increasing Demand for Custom-Printed & Branded Paper Cups
- Custom-printed paper cups with company logos, QR codes, and promotions are in high demand, enhancing brand visibility and customer engagement.
- South Korean coffee chains, such as Ediya Coffee and Caffé Bene, are investing in branded biodegradable paper cups.
Segment & Category Analysis
1. Leading Material Types in the Paper Cup Market
| Material Type |
Market Share (2025) |
|---|---|
Paperboard | 56.1% |
Kraft Paper |
26.8% |
Molded Fiber |
17.1% |
- Paperboard remains the dominant material, as it offers durability, recyclability, and high printability.
- Molded fiber and kraft paper cups are gaining traction, driven by sustainability concerns and consumer preferences.
2. Top Applications in the Paper Cup Market
| Application |
Market Share (2025) |
|---|---|
Hot Beverages (Coffee, Tea, Cocoa) | 72.8% |
Cold Beverages (Bubble Tea, Juices, Smoothies) |
18.2% |
Food Packaging (Ice Cream, Yogurt, Snacks) |
9.0% |
- Hot beverage cups hold the majority share, driven by South Korea’s strong coffee culture and café expansion.
- Cold beverage cups are growing in popularity, fueled by demand for bubble tea, fruit-based drinks, and smoothies.
3. Key Product Types for Paper Cups
| Product Type |
Market Share (2025) |
|---|---|
|
Single-Wall Paper Cups |
40.4% |
|
Double-Wall Insulated Paper Cups |
39.2% |
|
Ripple-Wall Cups |
20.4% |
- Double-wall insulated cups are in high demand, particularly in coffee shops and takeaway outlets.
- Ripple-wall cups are preferred for premium beverages, offering better insulation and grip.
Geographical Insights: Key Growth Regions in South Korea
| Region |
CAGR (2025 – 2035) |
|---|---|
|
Seoul & Gyeonggi Province |
8.3% |
|
Busan & South Gyeongsang |
7.8% |
|
Jeju & South Jeolla |
7.5% |
|
Daegu & North Jeolla |
7.2% |
1. Seoul & Gyeonggi Province: The Largest Consumer Market
- Seoul leads the demand, with high penetration of coffee chains, fast-food outlets, and vending machines.
- Eco-friendly initiatives in Gyeonggi Province are pushing businesses toward recyclable paper cup solutions.
2. Busan & South Gyeongsang: Emerging Market for Sustainable Packaging
- Busan’s strong tourism and hospitality industry are increasing the adoption of customized paper cups.
- South Gyeongsang is a major manufacturing hub, supplying export-grade paper cups to Asian markets.
Competitive Landscape: Key Players & Market Strategy
Leading Market Players
- Dong Hwa Industry Co., Ltd.
- Kumho Paper Cup Co., Ltd.
- DongBang Co., Ltd.
- Daesung Paper Cup Co., Ltd.
- Woosung Paper Co., Ltd.
- Hwaseung Industries Co., Ltd.
- Hwasung Paper Co., Ltd.
Recent Industry Developments
- February 2024: DongBang Co., Ltd. launched a new line of PLA-coated biodegradable paper cups, targeting high-end coffee brands.
- May 2024: Dong Hwa Industry Co., Ltd. expanded its production capacity, introducing custom-printed recyclable cups.
- August 2024: Kumho Paper Cup Co., Ltd. developed lightweight yet durable paper cups, reducing raw material usage by 15%.
📢 Contact our advisory team for insights on emerging and established players shaping the South Korean paper cup market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the projected market size of the paper cup industry in South Korea?
The market is expected to reach USD 339 million by 2025, expanding to USD 673 million by 2035.
2. What is the estimated CAGR for the industry?
The market is projected to grow at a 8.1% CAGR from 2025 to 2035.
3. Which material type dominates the market?
Paperboard (56.1%) holds the highest share, followed by Kraft Paper (26.8%).
4. What factors are driving paper cup demand in South Korea?
Key factors include eco-friendly packaging mandates, high coffee consumption, and the growth of the food delivery sector.
5. Which regions will experience the highest growth?
Seoul & Gyeonggi Province (8.3% CAGR) and Busan & South Gyeongsang (7.8% CAGR) are leading, driven by expansion in QSRs, coffee chains, and tourism.
Final Takeaway: Capitalize on Emerging Opportunities
The South Korean paper cup market is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by sustainability regulations, growing consumer demand for takeaway beverages, and innovative packaging solutions. Companies investing in biodegradable materials, custom branding, and smart packaging technology will secure a competitive edge in this dynamic industry.
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