Written by The South Korea market size for fragrances and perfume reached a value of more than USD 456.43 million in 2024. The South Korea fragrances and perfume market size is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.3% between 2025 and 2034, reaching a value of USD 791.16 million by 2034. With the rise in disposable incomes, a flourishing beauty and wellness culture, and an increasing demand for personal care products, the South Korean fragrance market is set to witness significant growth. This expansion is being propelled by shifting consumer preferences, innovations in product offerings, and the growing prominence of e-commerce and retail distribution channels. In this blog post, we will explore the key trends, product segments, and market dynamics driving the growth of South Korea’s fragrance and perfume industry.
Market Segmentation and Key Trends
The South Korean fragrance market is diverse, encompassing a wide range of products that cater to various consumer preferences. The market can be broadly segmented by product type, fragrance composition, consumer group, and distribution channels. Understanding these segments helps us better grasp how different factors are influencing the market and what opportunities lie ahead.
By Product Type
- Parfum or Extrait
Parfum, also known as extrait, is the most concentrated form of fragrance, containing between 20% to 40% perfume oils. It is typically more expensive than other forms due to its high concentration and longer-lasting fragrance. The demand for parfum in South Korea is driven by consumers seeking luxury, exclusivity, and high-quality fragrance experiences.
The trend toward more personalized and niche luxury perfumes has boosted the popularity of parfums, particularly among consumers with a high disposable income. Brands like Chanel and Dior have a strong presence in this segment, offering unique scents that appeal to sophisticated consumers. - Eau de Parfum (EDP)
Eau de Parfum (EDP) contains a perfume oil concentration of 15% to 20%, making it less intense than parfum but still long-lasting. EDPs are among the most popular fragrance products in South Korea due to their versatile nature, balancing luxury and affordability. They appeal to both daily users and those seeking a more refined scent experience.
In recent years, EDP offerings have become more accessible, with Korean brands such as Amorepacific and global players like Chanel and Gucci expanding their EDP lines to cater to the growing demand. - Eau de Toilette (EDT)
Eau de Toilette (EDT) typically contains around 5% to 15% perfume oils and is known for its lighter scent. EDTs are ideal for everyday wear and are often more affordable than EDPs and parfums. In South Korea, the demand for EDTs is driven by young consumers and those looking for fresh, everyday fragrances. Brands like Calvin Klein, Hugo Boss, and Davidoff are well-established in this category.
As consumer preferences evolve, there has also been an increase in the availability of unisex EDTs, which cater to a growing segment of individuals who prefer gender-neutral scents. - Others (Eau de Cologne, Body Sprays, etc.)
The “Others” segment includes eau de cologne, body mists, and other scented products. While not as concentrated as EDT or EDP, these products offer a refreshing and affordable alternative for consumers. Body mists and eau de cologne are particularly popular among younger demographics, offering an accessible entry point into the fragrance market. With the rise in athleisure and self-care trends, body sprays and mists have found a steady consumer base in South Korea.
By Type
- Natural Fragrances
Natural fragrances, derived from essential oils, plants, flowers, and other organic sources, are gaining popularity among consumers who are more health-conscious and environmentally aware. With increasing concern about chemicals in personal care products, many consumers in South Korea are seeking natural alternatives. The clean beauty movement, which focuses on organic and cruelty-free products, is also driving this demand.
South Korean consumers are increasingly turning to organic perfumes that use botanicals like jasmine, lavender, and rose, aligning with the country’s growing demand for wellness-focused and eco-friendly products. - Synthetic Fragrances
Synthetic fragrances continue to dominate the market in South Korea. These fragrances are crafted using artificial ingredients, providing a wide range of scent options at varying price points. While synthetic fragrances are often less expensive than natural perfumes, they remain a popular choice due to their longevity, intensity, and consistency.
Big global players like Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, and Prada leverage synthetic fragrances to create iconic scents that appeal to South Korean consumers, particularly those seeking luxury at a relatively affordable price.
By Consumer Group
- Men
The male fragrance market in South Korea is witnessing considerable growth, with an increasing number of men embracing personal grooming and fragrances. Previously, fragrances for men were dominated by woody and spicy scents, but there is now a growing demand for more fresh, floral, and citrus-based fragrances.
Brands like Giorgio Armani, Dior, and Jo Malone are catering to this shift by offering a wider range of fragrances specifically targeted at men. Additionally, the growing acceptance of unisex fragrances is fueling the demand for versatile scents that appeal to both men and women. - Women
Women continue to dominate the fragrance market in South Korea, with floral, fruity, and oriental fragrances being the most sought-after choices. Women’s preferences are constantly evolving, with a shift towards more sophisticated, complex fragrances.
International brands such as Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent, and Lancôme, along with local players like Innisfree, have capitalized on these trends by offering a diverse range of women’s fragrances that cater to all tastes—from light and airy to deep and sensual scents. - Unisex
The unisex fragrance market is growing rapidly in South Korea, driven by changing perceptions around gender norms and an increasing preference for neutral, inclusive products. Unisex fragrances are often crafted with a blend of both floral and woody notes, appealing to consumers who do not wish to be confined to traditionally gendered scent profiles.
As younger consumers embrace individuality and inclusivity, the demand for unisex perfumes from brands like Le Labo, Maison Margiela, and local brands like 1st Lab is expected to rise.
By Distribution Channel
- Online Retail
E-commerce has become a major distribution channel for fragrances in South Korea. The convenience of online shopping, along with the ability to compare prices and find rare or niche fragrances, has contributed to the growth of online retail. Platforms like Coupang, Gmarket, and global e-commerce giants like Amazon are playing a significant role in making fragrances more accessible to consumers.
Social media, especially Instagram and YouTube, has also contributed to the rise of online fragrance sales, with influencers showcasing their favorite scents and reviewing products. - Brick-and-Mortar Stores
Despite the surge in online shopping, traditional brick-and-mortar stores remain an essential part of the fragrance market in South Korea. Major department stores, including Lotte, Shinsegae, and Hyundai, continue to offer a wide range of perfumes. The in-store experience, where customers can test and sample fragrances, is highly valued in the fragrance industry, especially for luxury products.
The in-store environment allows consumers to interact with products, receive personalized recommendations, and experience the scents before making a purchase. - Specialty Stores and Duty-Free Stores
Specialty fragrance boutiques and duty-free shops also play a significant role in the South Korean fragrance market. Duty-free stores in South Korea, particularly in airports, attract international tourists looking for premium fragrances. This segment is expected to continue growing as international tourism rebounds post-pandemic.
Competitive Landscape
The South Korean fragrance market is highly competitive, with both international and local players vying for consumer attention. Key international brands like Chanel, Dior, and Estée Lauder dominate the premium and luxury fragrance categories. At the same time, South Korean brands such as Innisfree, Amorepacific, and The Face Shop are gaining ground with their locally produced fragrances and eco-friendly offerings.
Local players are increasingly launching their own lines of perfumes and leveraging Korea’s global pop culture, including K-pop, to market their products. The increasing popularity of K-beauty products is expected to spill over into the fragrance market, with South Korean brands continuing to expand their presence.