South Korea Spreads Market Overview, 2031

The spreads market in South Korea has seen a profound shift, moving from traditional savory options to more diverse and international flavors, as the country becomes more open to global food trends. In the past, spreads in South Korea were largely limited to savory products such as kimchi paste or gochujang (fermented chili paste), which were essential components of daily meals. However, in recent years, the market has evolved dramatically as Western influences have permeated the food culture. Products like peanut butter, jam, and hazelnut spread have gained a foothold in the Korean market, particularly in urban areas like Seoul, where younger consumers are more open to trying new and exotic flavors. International brands such as Skippy and Nutella have capitalized on this trend, making their mark in the local spreads market. Additionally, there has been a rising demand for healthier, more nutritious alternatives, which has spurred innovations in low-sugar, organic, and plant-based spreads. South Korean brands like Paldo have introduced nut-based spreads and fruit preserves that cater to the growing interest in plant-based diets and wellness. The popularity of veganism and lactose-free products is also helping drive this shift, as more consumers seek options that align with their health-conscious lifestyles. Moreover, the concept of banchan (side dishes) in Korean cuisine is expanding to include spreads, offering consumers new ways to incorporate savory spreads into everyday meals, from breads to rice dishes. This changing landscape reveals the dynamic transformation of the South Korean spreads market, as it embraces both traditional flavors and new, global innovations.

According to the research report, "South Korea Millets Market Outlook, 2031," published by Bonafide Research, the South Korea Millets market is anticipated to add to more than USD 600 Million by 2026–31. In South Korea, the spreads market is seeing a rapid transformation with increased consumer demand for healthier, more functional products, along with new flavor profiles that align with evolving tastes. One of the most significant developments in the market has been the growing popularity of plant-based and organic spreads. As more consumers seek healthier options, brands like The Vegan Spoon have emerged, offering plant-based spreads made from organic ingredients, catering to the increasing number of vegans and health-conscious consumers in South Korea. The rise of wellness trends, including low-carb and gluten-free diets, has also led to the growth of alternative spreads that are high in protein and free from artificial additives. Dumex, known for its dairy products, introduced a range of spreads fortified with probiotics, meeting the demand for functional food products that support gut health. Similarly, Korea Yakult entered the spread market with yogurt-based spreads, capitalizing on the growing trend of probiotics and gut-friendly products. Another notable shift has been the rise of Western-style sweet spreads, such as chocolate and hazelnut spreads, which have become staples in many South Korean households, especially among younger generations. International brands like Nutella have seen success, but local companies such as Lotte and CJ CheilJedang are not far behind, offering their own versions of chocolate and hazelnut spreads that appeal to Korean tastes. Retailers like Emart and Lotte Mart have responded to these shifts by increasing the variety of spreads available on their shelves, from traditional jam and butter options to new, innovative products.

In South Korea, spreadable fats such as butter, margarine, and cheese are integral to the country's culinary habits. Brands like Seoul Dairy and Lotte dominate the butter and margarine market, catering to both traditional and modern preferences, with margarine products particularly popular for use in baking and cooking. While butter is a traditional favorite, margarine has gained a foothold due to its affordability and versatility. Fruit jam and preserve spreads are also widely consumed, with Ottogi and CJ CheilJedang offering an extensive range of jams made from popular fruits like strawberry, grape, and peach. These jams are typically enjoyed with toast or as fillings for pastries such as Hotteok, a sweet Korean pancake. Nut-based spreads, especially peanut butter, have grown significantly in South Korea, driven by an increasing interest in healthy snacks and Western food trends. International brands like Jif and Skippy have been met with strong demand, while local brands like Dongsuh also cater to domestic preferences. Chocolate spreads are highly popular, particularly Nutella, which is often used by younger consumers for breakfast or snacks, typically spread on bread or paired with fruit. Savory spreads are also common, with products like Kimchi and Gochujang (Korean red chili paste) being used as spreads or condiments in sandwiches and rice dishes. Honey-based spreads are also gaining popularity, with local producers such as Cheonggukjang offering honey-based products that cater to the growing interest in natural sweeteners. These diverse products reflect the unique combination of global influences and traditional Korean culinary culture in the country’s spreads market.

In South Korea, conventional spreads continue to dominate the market, with traditional butter, margarine, and fruit jams being core pantry staples in households. Well-known brands like Seoul Dairy and Lotte remain favorites among consumers, with their familiar flavors and long-standing presence in the market. However, there has been a noticeable shift towards organic and plant-based spreads, driven by increasing consumer awareness around health and sustainability. Organic products are becoming more popular, with brands like Oisix offering organic fruit jams and spreads free from artificial additives. These products align with the growing demand for clean-label foods, which is particularly prominent among South Korea’s more health-conscious consumers. Plant-based spreads are also on the rise, largely driven by the younger generation, who are becoming more attuned to vegan and vegetarian diets. Oatly and Miyoko’s Creamery have gained a foothold in the plant-based butter market, which is a response to growing concerns about the environmental and ethical issues surrounding animal farming. The increasing popularity of plant-based alternatives is further reflected in the rise of plant-based nut butters, with local brands such as Café24 offering almond and cashew butter spreads. While still a smaller segment, the plant-based and organic trends are gaining momentum, especially in major cities like Seoul, where the demand for sustainable and health-conscious products is more pronounced.

In South Korea, hypermarkets and supermarkets remain the dominant distribution channels for spreads, with large retail chains like E-Mart, Homeplus, and Lotte Mart offering an extensive selection of spreadable products. These large retail outlets carry a variety of spreads, from traditional butter and margarine to healthier, organic, and plant-based alternatives. E-Mart, in particular, has a wide range of domestic and imported spreads available, catering to the diverse tastes of South Korean consumers. Convenience stores such as CU, 7-Eleven, and GS25 also play an important role in the distribution of spreads, especially for smaller, on-the-go portions. These stores are particularly popular among younger consumers, who frequently pick up single-serve peanut butter or fruit jam packages for quick consumption during the day. Online retailing is rapidly growing in South Korea, with e-commerce platforms such as Coupang and Gmarket offering a wide variety of spreads to consumers. The convenience of home delivery, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, has further boosted the online shopping trend in South Korea, with many consumers preferring to order their spreads online rather than visiting physical stores. Foodservice channels also contribute to the distribution of spreads, particularly with popular Korean spreads like Kimchi and Gochujang being used in cafes, restaurants, and snack shops across the country. Direct sales through artisanal markets and local producers are gaining popularity as well, particularly in urban areas where there is a growing interest in premium, organic, and handmade spreads.



Considered in this report
• Historic Year: 2020
• Base year: 2025
• Estimated year: 2026
• Forecast year: 2031

Aspects covered in this report
• Spreads 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 Product Type
• Spreadable Fats (Butter, Margarine & Cheese)
• Fruit Jam & Preserve Spreads
• Nut Based Spreads
• Chocolate Spreads
• Savory Spreads
• Honey Based Spreads

By Nature
• Conventional
• Organic / Plant Based

By Distribution Channel
• Hypermarket & Supermarket
• Convenience Store
• Online
• Others (Foodserive & Direct Sales)