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South Korea Activated Carbon Market

ID: MRFR/CnM/43987-HCR
111 Pages
Chitranshi Jaiswal
October 2025

South Korea Activated Carbon Market Research Report: By Product Type (Powdered, Granular, Others), By Raw Material (Coal, Coconut, Wood, Peat, Others), By Application (Liquid-Phase, Gas-Phase) andBy End User (Water Treatment, FoodBeverage Processing, PharmaceuticalMedical, Automotive, Air Purification, Mining, Textiles, Electronics, Others)- Forecast to 2035

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South Korea Activated Carbon Market Summary

As per Market Research Future analysis, the South Korea activated carbon market Size was estimated at 205.2 USD Million in 2024. The South Korea activated carbon market is projected to grow from 221.27 USD Million in 2025 to 470.4 USD Million by 2035, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.8% during the forecast period 2025 - 2035

Key Market Trends & Highlights

The South Korea activated carbon market is poised for growth driven by regulatory and technological advancements.

  • The market is witnessing a surge in demand for activated carbon in air and water treatment applications.
  • Technological innovations are enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of activated carbon production processes.
  • Consumer awareness regarding health and environmental issues is driving the adoption of activated carbon solutions.
  • Key market drivers include stringent environmental regulations and rising health concerns among the population.

Market Size & Forecast

2024 Market Size 205.2 (USD Million)
2035 Market Size 470.4 (USD Million)
CAGR (2025 - 2035) 7.83%

Major Players

Cabot Carbon Limited (GB), Calgon Carbon Corporation (US), Kuraray Co Ltd (JP), Haycarb PLC (LK), Carbotech AC GmbH (DE), Activated Carbon Technologies (AU), Evoqua Water Technologies LLC (US), Silcarbon Aktivkohle GmbH (DE)

South Korea Activated Carbon Market Trends

The activated carbon market in South Korea is currently experiencing notable growth, driven by increasing environmental regulations and a rising demand for air and water purification solutions. The government has implemented stringent policies aimed at reducing pollution levels, which has led to a heightened focus on the use of activated carbon in various applications, including industrial processes and municipal water treatment. Furthermore, the growing awareness among consumers regarding health and environmental issues is propelling the adoption of activated carbon products in residential settings. This trend indicates a shift towards more sustainable practices, as industries and households alike seek effective solutions for contaminant removal. In addition to regulatory influences, technological advancements are playing a crucial role in shaping the activated carbon market. Innovations in production methods and the development of specialized carbon types are enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of activated carbon in various applications. The market appears to be moving towards more customized solutions, catering to specific needs across different sectors. As South Korea continues to prioritize environmental sustainability, the activated carbon market is likely to expand further, presenting opportunities for both established players and new entrants in the industry.

Regulatory Drivers

The activated carbon market is significantly influenced by government regulations aimed at environmental protection. South Korea's commitment to reducing air and water pollution has led to increased demand for activated carbon in various applications, including industrial emissions control and water treatment.

Technological Innovations

Advancements in production technologies are enhancing the performance of activated carbon products. Innovations such as the development of specialized carbon types are improving adsorption capabilities, making activated carbon more effective in diverse applications.

Consumer Awareness

There is a growing awareness among consumers regarding the importance of clean air and water. This trend is driving the demand for activated carbon products in residential markets, as individuals seek effective solutions for improving indoor air quality and water safety.

Market Segment Insights

By Application: Water Treatment (Largest) vs. Air Purification (Fastest-Growing)

In the South Korea activated carbon market, Water Treatment leads with a significant market share, primarily driven by regulatory standards demanding high-quality water supply. Other sectors, such as Air Purification and Food and Beverage Processing, follow, with strong contributions to overall market dynamics. Air Purification is rapidly gaining traction, propelled by increasing awareness of air quality issues and health concerns, leading to innovative applications and technologies. Pharmaceuticals and Gold Recovery remain niche but critical segments, ensuring a diversified market landscape that caters to various industrial needs.

Water Treatment (Dominant) vs. Air Purification (Emerging)

Water Treatment plays a dominant role in the South Korea activated carbon market, given its critical importance in providing clean water for residential and industrial use. It encompasses various methods, including coagulation and filtration, making activated carbon crucial for removing contaminants. On the other hand, Air Purification is emerging as a significant segment, driven by rising pollution levels and health awareness. This segment includes air filtration systems and devices that utilize activated carbon for eliminating indoor air pollutants. Both segments are essential in addressing environmental and public health challenges, contributing to a robust demand for activated carbon.

By Type: Granular Activated Carbon (Largest) vs. Powdered Activated Carbon (Fastest-Growing)

The South Korea activated carbon market is primarily dominated by Granular Activated Carbon, which holds a significant market share due to its wide application in water treatment and air purification. Powdered Activated Carbon follows closely, exhibiting an increasing presence in the market as it finds applications in food processing and pharmaceuticals. Extruded Activated Carbon, while crucial, commands a smaller portion of the market, mainly being utilized in specialized filtration processes. Growth trends indicate a rising demand for sustainable and eco-friendly solutions, driving interest in Activated Carbon. The increasing emphasis on pollution control and water treatment efficiency is expected to enhance the adoption of both Granular and Powdered Activated Carbon. Additionally, the expansion of industries such as pharmaceuticals and food processing continues to support market growth, particularly for Powdered Activated Carbon, which is witnessing rapid advancements in its production techniques.

Granular Activated Carbon (Dominant) vs. Powdered Activated Carbon (Emerging)

Granular Activated Carbon stands out as the dominant segment in the South Korea activated carbon market, favored for its effective adsorption capabilities, making it ideal for various purification processes. Its robustness and effectiveness in removing impurities from liquids and gases make it indispensable for industries like municipal water treatment and air purification. On the other hand, Powdered Activated Carbon is an emerging segment that has gained traction due to its versatility and efficiency in smaller-scale applications, such as in industrial processes and air treatment systems. The growing preference for eco-friendly products has further accelerated its adoption, positioning it as a key player poised for significant growth in the near future.

By End-use: Industrial (Largest) vs. Residential (Fastest-Growing)

In the South Korea activated carbon market, the industrial segment holds the largest share, driven by extensive usage in water treatment and air purification applications. This dominance is complemented by the commercial segment, which is also notable due to increased demand from businesses needing efficient filtration solutions. Meanwhile, the residential segment, while smaller in market share, is rapidly gaining traction as more households adopt activated carbon products for their air and water purification needs. Growth trends in this segment are being propelled by rising environmental awareness and stricter regulatory requirements concerning air quality and water pollution. The industrial segment continues to benefit from large-scale applications in various industries, while the emerging residential market is expected to grow due to increasing consumer demand for sustainable and effective home filtration solutions. Continuous innovations and product developments are also energizing this segment’s expansion.

Industrial (Dominant) vs. Residential (Emerging)

The industrial segment is characterized by its large-scale applications across various sectors, particularly in water treatment and air purification processes. It emphasizes efficiency and effectiveness in filtering impurities. This segment's robust growth is supported by stringent regulations around water and air quality, compelling industries to adopt advanced filtration technologies. In contrast, the residential segment is emerging as a significant player, marked by a growing consumer trend towards healthier living environments. As awareness concerning indoor air quality increases, residential consumers are increasingly opting for activated carbon products, which provide convenient solutions for air and water filtration in homes. This shift presents unique opportunities for manufacturers to innovate and cater to the evolving needs of individual households.

By Production Method: Physical Activation (Largest) vs. Chemical Activation (Fastest-Growing)

In the South Korea activated carbon market, the market share distribution reveals that Physical Activation holds a significant share, making it the largest segment in terms of production method. This method has been traditionally favored due to its cost-effectiveness and ability to produce high-quality activated carbon suitable for various applications, including air and water purification. On the other hand, Chemical Activation is emerging as the fastest-growing segment, driven by the increasing demand for tailored adsorption properties in activated carbon products. This method allows for easier modification of surface properties, making it attractive for specialized applications. The growth of this segment is supported by advancements in chemical treatments and growing environmental regulations that favor high-performance activated carbon solutions.

Production Method: Physical Activation (Dominant) vs. Chemical Activation (Emerging)

Physical Activation is characterized by its established methods of producing activated carbon through physical processes such as carbonization and steam activation. This dominant segment is recognized for its reliability and effectiveness in various applications, including industrial, environmental, and food processing sectors. Conversely, Chemical Activation utilizes specific chemicals for activation, allowing manufacturers to produce activated carbon with tailored properties. This emerging segment is gaining traction due to its adaptability and ability to meet niche market needs, particularly in industries that require high-performance materials for unique applications. As regulations become stricter, the relevance of both methods may increase, presenting challenges and opportunities for producers.

Get more detailed insights about South Korea Activated Carbon Market

Key Players and Competitive Insights

The activated carbon market in South Korea is characterized by a competitive landscape that is increasingly shaped by innovation, sustainability, and strategic partnerships. Key players such as Calgon Carbon Corporation (US), Kuraray Co Ltd (JP), and Evoqua Water Technologies LLC (US) are actively pursuing strategies that emphasize technological advancements and environmental responsibility. These companies are not only focusing on enhancing their product offerings but are also investing in research and development to create more efficient and sustainable activated carbon solutions. This collective emphasis on innovation and sustainability appears to be a significant driver of growth within the market, fostering a competitive environment that encourages continuous improvement and adaptation.In terms of business tactics, companies are increasingly localizing manufacturing and optimizing supply chains to enhance operational efficiency. The market structure is moderately fragmented, with several key players holding substantial market shares while also facing competition from smaller, specialized firms. This fragmentation allows for a diverse range of products and services, catering to various industrial applications, including water treatment, air purification, and food processing. The collective influence of these key players is shaping market dynamics, as they strive to differentiate themselves through quality, sustainability, and technological advancements.

In October Calgon Carbon Corporation (US) announced the launch of a new line of activated carbon products designed specifically for the removal of emerging contaminants in water treatment applications. This strategic move underscores the company's commitment to addressing evolving environmental challenges and positions it as a leader in the sustainable water treatment sector. By focusing on innovative solutions that meet regulatory demands, Calgon Carbon is likely to enhance its market share and strengthen its competitive position.

In September Kuraray Co Ltd (JP) expanded its production capacity for activated carbon in South Korea, investing approximately $10 million in state-of-the-art manufacturing technology. This expansion not only reflects Kuraray's confidence in the growing demand for activated carbon but also highlights its strategy to enhance operational efficiency and reduce production costs. Such investments are crucial for maintaining competitiveness in a market that is increasingly driven by technological advancements and sustainability.

In August Evoqua Water Technologies LLC (US) entered into a strategic partnership with a leading South Korean environmental firm to develop advanced water treatment solutions utilizing activated carbon. This collaboration aims to leverage both companies' expertise to create innovative products that address local water quality issues. The partnership signifies a trend towards strategic alliances that enhance product offerings and market reach, allowing companies to better serve their customers and respond to regional demands.

As of November the activated carbon market is witnessing trends that emphasize digitalization, sustainability, and the integration of artificial intelligence in production processes. Strategic alliances are becoming increasingly important, as companies seek to combine resources and expertise to enhance their competitive edge. The shift from price-based competition to a focus on innovation, technology, and supply chain reliability is evident, suggesting that future differentiation will hinge on the ability to deliver high-quality, sustainable solutions that meet the evolving needs of customers.

Key Companies in the South Korea Activated Carbon Market include

Industry Developments

In recent months, the South Korea Activated Carbon Market has been experiencing notable developments and growth. The increasing demand for activated carbon solutions, particularly in air and water treatment applications, has led to significant interest from key players such as Kuraray and Calgon Carbon. In July 2023, Korea Activated Carbon expanded its production capacity to meet growing domestic and international demand, signaling a strategic move to solidify its market presence. Additionally, SGL Carbon announced an investment in advanced manufacturing technology in August 2023, aimed at improving the quality and production efficiency of its activated carbon products in South Korea.

Amid rising environmental concerns, companies like Gient and Haycarb are shifting focus toward sustainable practices, enhancing product offerings that cater to eco-friendly initiatives. Moreover, ongoing research and development activities among firms such as Sungshin Chemical and CPL Activated Carbons are promising to unlock new applications and utilize innovative technologies. Notably, the market is projected to reflect a steady growth trajectory, supported by increased investment and advancements by major industry players in the region, enhancing the overall valuation of the South Korean activated carbon landscape.

Future Outlook

South Korea Activated Carbon Market Future Outlook

The activated carbon market in South Korea is projected to grow at 7.83% CAGR from 2024 to 2035, driven by increasing environmental regulations and demand for air and water purification.

New opportunities lie in:

  • Development of advanced filtration systems for industrial applications.
  • Expansion into emerging markets with tailored activated carbon solutions.
  • Investment in R&D for innovative carbon capture technologies.

By 2035, the activated carbon market is expected to achieve substantial growth and innovation.

Market Segmentation

South Korea Activated Carbon Market Type Outlook

  • Granular Activated Carbon
  • Powdered Activated Carbon
  • Extruded Activated Carbon

South Korea Activated Carbon Market End-use Outlook

  • Industrial
  • Residential
  • Commercial

South Korea Activated Carbon Market Application Outlook

  • Water Treatment
  • Air Purification
  • Food and Beverage Processing
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Gold Recovery

South Korea Activated Carbon Market Production Method Outlook

  • Physical Activation
  • Chemical Activation

Report Scope

MARKET SIZE 2024205.2(USD Million)
MARKET SIZE 2025221.27(USD Million)
MARKET SIZE 2035470.4(USD Million)
COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR)7.83% (2025 - 2035)
REPORT COVERAGERevenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
BASE YEAR2024
Market Forecast Period2025 - 2035
Historical Data2019 - 2024
Market Forecast UnitsUSD Million
Key Companies Profiled["Cabot Carbon Limited (GB)", "Calgon Carbon Corporation (US)", "Kuraray Co Ltd (JP)", "Haycarb PLC (LK)", "Carbotech AC GmbH (DE)", "Activated Carbon Technologies (AU)", "Evoqua Water Technologies LLC (US)", "Silcarbon Aktivkohle GmbH (DE)"]
Segments CoveredApplication, Type, End-use, Production Method
Key Market OpportunitiesGrowing demand for sustainable water treatment solutions drives innovation in the activated carbon market.
Key Market DynamicsRising demand for air and water purification drives innovation and competition in the activated carbon market.
Countries CoveredSouth Korea
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FAQs

What is the expected market size of the South Korea Activated Carbon Market in 2024?

The South Korea Activated Carbon Market is expected to be valued at 205.2 million USD in 2024.

What will be the market value of the South Korea Activated Carbon Market in 2035?

In 2035, the South Korea Activated Carbon Market is projected to reach a value of 615.6 million USD.

What is the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for the South Korea Activated Carbon Market from 2025 to 2035?

The market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 10.503 percent during the period from 2025 to 2035.

Which product type holds the largest market share in the South Korea Activated Carbon Market?

Granular activated carbon is anticipated to hold the largest market share, valued at 85.0 million USD in 2024.

What will be the market size for powdered activated carbon in 2035?

The market size for powdered activated carbon is expected to reach 210.0 million USD in 2035.

Who are the key players in the South Korea Activated Carbon Market?

Some major players in the market include Kuraray, Gient, and Calgon Carbon.

What is the estimated value of the 'Others' product segment in the South Korea Activated Carbon Market in 2024?

The estimated value of the 'Others' product segment is 50.2 million USD in 2024.

What growth opportunities exist in the South Korea Activated Carbon Market?

The market offers growth opportunities driven by increasing demand for air and water purification applications.

What is the projected market size for granular activated carbon in 2035?

Granular activated carbon is projected to have a market size of 255.0 million USD in 2035.

What impact do emerging trends have on the South Korea Activated Carbon Market?

Emerging trends, such as advancements in manufacturing processes, are expected to positively impact market growth and innovation.

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