As per MRFR analysis, the South Korea E-Waste Management Market Size was estimated at 1.82 (USD Billion) in 2023.The South Korea E-Waste Management Market is expected to grow from 1.94(USD Billion) in 2024 to 4.64 (USD Billion) by 2035.
The South Korea E-Waste Management Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 8.246% during the forecast period (2025 - 2035).
The market for e-waste management in South Korea is expanding significantly due to rising consumer electronics use and the quick development of technology, which raises device turnover. Sustainable disposal methods are becoming increasingly important as a result of citizens' increased awareness of environmental concerns.
Regulations have been put in place by the government to promote appropriate disposal of electronic trash and responsible recycling. Public awareness campaigns and governmental assistance have encouraged companies and consumers to take an active role in e-waste recycling programs. The South Korean e-waste management market offers significant prospects for investigation.
Businesses are being compelled by the emergence of the circular economy to produce sustainable materials that can be recycled and repurposed in new goods. Furthermore, specialist recycling facilities that can securely and effectively handle complicated electronic equipment are needed as the tech sector continues to develop.
By forming alliances between public and commercial organizations, e-waste management infrastructure may be strengthened through improved collection and processing technologies. Current patterns show that the waste management industry is moving toward the use of cutting-edge technologies.
E-waste recycling procedures are incorporating cutting-edge techniques like blockchain and artificial intelligence to improve efficiency and traceability. The creation of intelligent e-waste recycling bins that increase accessibility and convenience for residents is facilitated by South Korea's dedication to technology.
Additionally, the burgeoning market for used tech devices and the developing trend of upcycling electronics are changing consumer perceptions of e-waste and highlighting the significance of sustainable behaviors in daily life.
Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
The South Korean government has implemented stringent regulations and policies aimed at improving e-waste management. The Act on the Resource Circulation of Electrical and Electronic Equipment and Vehicles came into effect to ensure efficient disposal and recycling of electronic wastes.
As a result, it has led to significant investment in recycling technologies and infrastructure. According to the Ministry of Environment in South Korea, the e-waste recycling rate has increased to approximately 25% from 15% over the last five years.
Such regulatory frameworks are supported by notable organizations like the Korea Electronics Association, which advocates for better environmental practices among manufacturers and consumers alike.
Enhanced compliance with these regulations is expected to foster growth in the South Korea E-Waste Management Market, consequently leading to more sustainable practices and higher market valuation in the coming years.
The consumer electronics market in South Korea has been steadily expanding, driving the generation of e-waste. It is projected that the electronics market will continue to grow at a rate of about 6% annually through 2025, according to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE). This increases the need for effective e-waste management solutions as more products become obsolete.
Major electronics manufacturers, such as Samsung Electronics and LG Electronics, are actively promoting recycling programs and sustainability initiatives. Their commitment to environmental responsibility not only boosts brand reputation but also encourages responsible disposal by consumers, thereby enhancing the South Korea E-Waste Management Market's growth trajectory.
Public awareness about the environmental impact of e-waste is increasingly on the rise in South Korea, helping to drive the E-Waste Management Market. Recent surveys indicated that approximately 70% of South Koreans are now aware of e-waste recycling programs, up from 40% five years ago, as noted by various local media outlets.
This growing concern is spurred by campaigns from non-governmental organizations and local municipalities promoting responsible electronics disposal practices.
Organizations like the Korean Environmental Industry Association (KEIA) have also been instrumental in educating the public on the benefits of e-waste recycling. As consumer behavior shifts towards more sustainable practices, demand for efficient e-waste management solutions is anticipated to soar in the South Korea E-Waste Management Market.
The Service Type segment within the South Korea E-Waste Management Market has become a focal point for addressing the increasing volumes of electronic waste generated in the region. As technology continues to advance rapidly and consumer electronics become more prevalent, the importance of effective e-waste management services has never been greater.
Material Recovery stands out prominently in this segment, ensuring that valuable materials from discarded electronics are efficiently recovered and reused, which not only helps in conserving critical natural resources but also minimizes environmental impact.
Refurbishment plays a crucial role as well, extending the life cycle of electronic devices, thereby reducing the urgency of manufacturing new products and encouraging a culture of reusing rather than discarding. This practice aligns with South Korea's commitment to sustainable development and responsible consumption.
Recycling also forms a central component of this market, converting obsolete electronics into raw materials which can be utilized in the production of new devices. This not only contributes to a circular economy but also reduces the strain on landfills, a significant concern in densely populated areas.
Furthermore, Disposal services are essential for ensuring that e-waste is managed in compliance with environmental regulations, preventing hazardous materials from leaching into the environment.
The logistics aspect of e-waste management cannot be overlooked, as it is vital in streamlining the processes of collection, transportation, and processing of electronic waste, ensuring that these materials are handled efficiently and responsibly.
In South Korea, where regulatory frameworks are increasingly stringent regarding e-waste management, these service types are not just essential for operational efficiency but are integral to complying with government policies aimed at environmental protection and sustainability.
The growing recognition of e-waste as a resource rather than just waste dovetails with international norms and the South Korean government's initiatives to address electronic waste systematically.
The overarching trends indicate a robust market with significant potential for growth as both consumers and companies increasingly prioritize sustainable practices in managing electronic waste, thereby creating numerous opportunities for advancements in technology and service delivery within the South Korea E-Waste Management Market.
Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
The Source of E-Waste segment in the South Korea E-Waste Management Market holds significant importance, driven by the increasing adoption of advanced technologies and consumer electronics in everyday life.
Household appliances contribute a considerable share of e-waste due to the rapid replacement cycle of items like refrigerators and washing machines as consumers upgrade to energy-efficient models. Consumer electronics, particularly smartphones and laptops, constantly evolve with frequent model releases, resulting in substantial e-waste generation.
IT Equipment, used across industries for business operations, adds to the e-waste landscape as companies upgrade their devices to maintain competitiveness. Telecommunications equipment, including outdated routers and telephones, also contributes to this segment, reflecting the technology transition and upgrades that occur in urban settings.
Industrial Equipment represents both a challenge and an opportunity as older machinery is phased out for more sustainable options, necessitating efficient disposal methods. The South Korean government has actively implemented policies to enhance recycling and reduce e-waste through initiatives like extended producer responsibility, impacting how each source is managed.
Innovative recycling methods and increased consumer awareness are shaping the market dynamics in this segment, driving growth and improving responsible disposal practices.
The 'South Korea E-Waste Management Market' is characterized by its diverse End-user segment, which includes Residential, Commercial, Industrial, and Government sectors. Each of these segments plays a pivotal role in driving the market growth.
The Residential segment often contributes a significant portion of e-waste, as tech adoption among households continues to rise, leading to increased disposal of outdated electronics. The Commercial sector also represents a major share, as businesses seek compliance with environmental regulations and strive for sustainability, creating opportunities for e-waste recycling and management services.
Industrial users engage in responsible disposal practices to mitigate environmental impact while improving their corporate responsibility. The Government segment has established strict laws and initiatives for e-waste collection and recycling, promoting responsible practices and aiding in public awareness campaigns, which significantly enhances e-waste management efficiency.
Overall, the growth drivers in the End-user segmentation stem from increasing awareness of environmental issues, technological advancements, and the government's proactive role in enforcing regulations, all contributing to the robust dynamics of the 'South Korea E-Waste Management Market'.
The South Korea E-Waste Management Market shows a diversified Material Type segmentation, which includes Metals, Plastics, Glass, and Circuit Boards. Metals are crucial in e-waste due to their recyclability and economic value, contributing significantly to the overall sustainability efforts in the region.
Plastics represent a growing concern owing to their environmental impact, leading to increased initiatives for recycling and recovery programs by the government. Glass materials, commonly found in electronic devices, are also targeted for recycling to minimize waste and reduce landfill dependency, reflecting South Korea's commitment to a circular economy.
Circuit Boards are vital given their complexity and the presence of precious metals, making efficient processing methods essential for maximizing recovery. The rising awareness of e-waste issues and the implementation of stringent regulations play a significant role in driving advancements in managing these materials.
This focus not only aligns with global sustainability goals but also enhances job creation and economic growth within the South Korean E-Waste Management Market. The continuous innovation in recycling technology highlights the need for effective systems to handle these material types responsibly.
The South Korea E-Waste Management Market is characterized by rapid growth and evolving competitive dynamics, primarily driven by increasing awareness regarding sustainability and stringent government regulations aimed at minimizing electronic waste.
The market is marked by the presence of several key players who are continuously innovating to offer effective e-waste recycling solutions. A blend of technological advancements and public initiatives has set the tone for a healthier environmental approach to managing e-waste.
This landscape not only embraces environmentally friendly practices but also promotes the circular economy by recovering valuable materials from discarded electronics, positioning South Korea as a leader in e-waste management within the global context.
Samsung SDI has established a significant footprint within the South Korea E-Waste Management Market, primarily due to its robust technological capabilities and commitment to sustainable practices. The company specializes in the recycling of lithium-ion batteries and other electronic components, aligning with the country's emphasis on eco-friendly solutions.
Its advanced recycling technologies and facilities contribute to lower environmental impact by ensuring that valuable materials are efficiently recovered and reintroduced into the manufacturing process.
Furthermore, Samsung SDI has garnered a reputation for its innovation, allowing it to stay ahead of regulatory requirements and expectations regarding sustainability, making it a formidable competitor in the local market.
Samsung Electronics plays a pivotal role in the South Korea E-Waste Management Market through its comprehensive approach to electronic waste recycling. As a leading manufacturer of consumer electronics, the company actively engages in initiatives designed to minimize e-waste, such as take-back programs for its products and collaboration with local authorities on e-waste collection drives.
Samsung Electronics boasts a diverse portfolio that includes smartphones, televisions, and home appliances, which generates significant electronic waste. The company’s strengths lie in its extensive market presence and brand recognition, which foster consumer trust in its recycling initiatives.
Recent mergers and acquisitions have allowed Samsung Electronics to enhance its recycling capabilities and forge strategic partnerships with specialized e-waste management firms, further solidifying its leadership position in the South Korean market.
The South Korean Ministry of Environment recognized Samsung Display and LG Electronics' flagship facilities for attaining almost 100% landfill diversion through material recycling and circular-design activities in December 2024 by awarding them Platinum 'Zero Waste to Landfill' certificates.
Additionally, Samsung has a number of closed-loop recycling facilities where it uses the Resource Circulation Act to remove magnesium and indium from decommissioned digital signs.
The government proposed in July 2024 to extend obligatory recycling to almost all electronic items by 2025, extending EPR legislation to encompass emerging e-waste categories (such as drones, hair dryers, and e-cigarettes). This strengthens the requirements already in place for Pro AV trash, which mandate that producers recycle 70% of its weight.
South Korea classed expended EV batteries as recyclable resource materials in March 2025, making it easier to incorporate them into recycling or second-life uses (such stationary storage) without the need for risky classification procedures.
The nation has also made significant investments in intelligent recycling infrastructure: With optical conveyors and AI robotics, Seoul's state-of-the-art sorting facility processes 1,500 tons per day, producing 1.2 trillion tons of waste annually. Meanwhile, Envac Korea logistics systems now manage collection throughout smart-city developments in Seoul, Busan, and Sejong.
Large chip manufacturers, like as Samsung and SK Hynix, increasingly finance municipal recovery networks and take part in EPR take-back programs. At its Suwon factory, Hanwha Group is testing AI-driven e-waste deconstruction with plans to expand to a nationwide rollout by 2026.
| Report Attribute/Metric Source: | Details |
| MARKET SIZE 2023 | 1.82(USD Billion) |
| MARKET SIZE 2024 | 1.94(USD Billion) |
| MARKET SIZE 2035 | 4.64(USD Billion) |
| COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR) | 8.246% (2025 - 2035) |
| REPORT COVERAGE | Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends |
| BASE YEAR | 2024 |
| MARKET FORECAST PERIOD | 2025 - 2035 |
| HISTORICAL DATA | 2019 - 2024 |
| MARKET FORECAST UNITS | USD Billion |
| KEY COMPANIES PROFILED | Samsung SDI, Samsung Electronics, SK hynix, EcoMovement, Korea EWaste Center, EnviroServ, Gongju Recycling, EWaste Plus, LG Electronics, Recycling Partners, Taejin Group, Hanwha Group, Korea Resource Recovery Corporation, Korea Waste Management Corporation, Korea Electronic Recycling |
| SEGMENTS COVERED | Service Type, Source of E-Waste, End User, Material Type |
| KEY MARKET OPPORTUNITIES | Increased recycling infrastructure investment, Government regulations promoting e-waste recycling, Growing awareness of environmental sustainability, Expanding electronics market driving waste generation, Innovative e-waste disposal solutions development |
| KEY MARKET DYNAMICS | rising electronic consumption, stringent regulations, consumer awareness campaigns, recycling technology advancements, product lifecycle management |
| COUNTRIES COVERED | South Korea |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
The expected market size of the South Korea E-Waste Management Market in 2024 is 1.94 USD billion.
By 2035, the projected market value for the South Korea E-Waste Management Market is 4.64 USD billion.
The expected CAGR for the South Korea E-Waste Management Market from 2025 to 2035 is 8.246%.
By 2035, the Recycling service type is expected to be the largest segment in the South Korea E-Waste Management Market, valued at 1.55 USD billion.
Key players in the South Korea E-Waste Management Market include Samsung SDI, Samsung Electronics, SK hynix, EcoMovement, and LG Electronics.
The anticipated growth rate for the Material Recovery segment in the South Korea E-Waste Management Market is expected to reach 1.05 USD billion by 2035.
Challenges such as stringent regulations, technological changes, and environmental concerns could impact the growth of the South Korea E-Waste Management Market.
Urbanization is expected to drive increased E-waste generation, thus contributing to the growth of the South Korea E-Waste Management Market.
In 2024, the market size for the Refurbishment service type in the South Korea E-Waste Management Market was valued at 0.32 USD billion.
Growth opportunities within the South Korea E-Waste Management Market include increasing consumer awareness, government initiatives, and advancements in recycling technologies.
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Team Lead - Research she holds an experience of about 6+ years in market research and business consulting, working under the spectrum of information communication technology, telecommunications and semiconductor domains. aarti conceptualizes and implements a scalable business strategy and provides strategic leadership to the clients. her expertise lies in market estimation, competitive intelligence, pipeline analysis, customer assessment, etc.
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