South Korea Mobile App Development Market Research Report By Platform (IOS, Android) and By Application (E-commerce, Banking, Entertainment)- Forecast to 2035

South Korea Mobile App Development Market Overview

As per MRFR analysis, the South Korea Mobile App Development Market Size was estimated at 1.54 (USD Billion) in 2023.The South Korea Mobile App Development Market Industry is expected to grow from 1.89(USD Billion) in 2024 to 22.42 (USD Billion) by 2035. The South Korea Mobile App Development Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 25.226% during the forecast period (2025 - 2035).

Key South Korea Mobile App Development Market Trends Highlighted

Driven by a fast-changing technical environment and great smartphone penetration among its people, the South Korea Mobile App Development Market is showing interesting patterns. The growing need for mobile apps in many different fields like finance, healthcare, and education is among the most important factors influencing the industry. The government's drive for digital transformation, in accordance with its Fourth Industrial Revolution approach, which promotes innovation and technology breakthroughs, fuels this primarily. Furthermore, the active gaming market in South Korea has had a major influence on the app development business, which drives developers to commit to producing dynamic and immersive mobile experiences.

The emergence of 5G technology, which guarantees quicker and more consistent mobile communication, presents chances to be investigated in the South Korean market. This development lets developers design more complex apps using improved capabilities like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). Furthermore, the rising interest in IoT (Internet of Things) technologies offers another way for creators to innovate and meet the demands of smart homes and linked automobiles that are progressively common in metropolitan regions of South Korea. Inspired by the COVID-19 pandemic, demand for remote work and collaboration software has surged recently.

Businesses nowadays are concentrating on creating mobile apps that enable flawless project management and communication. Furthermore, as social commerce grows, there is a tendency to add e-commerce elements into social media channels so companies may more successfully contact customers. As it adjusts to technology developments and changing customer behavior, the South Korea Mobile App Development Market is expected to be constantly growing, therefore signalling a bright future for app developers in the area.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

South Korea Mobile App Development Market Drivers

Increasing Smartphone Adoption

The South Korea Mobile App Development Market Industry is witnessing remarkable growth driven by the increasing smartphone penetration in the country. According to government reports, approximately 95% of South Koreans own a smartphone as of 2023, with this number expected to rise. The Korean Communications Commission noted that younger demographics, especially those aged 18-34, show a smartphone usage rate of over 99%, which propels the demand for mobile applications.

Major companies like Samsung and LG remain at the forefront, continuously innovating smartphones that cater to diverse consumer needs. This high penetration rate lays a solid foundation for mobile app developers, creating a lucrative environment for new app creation and enhancing the existing app ecosystem, thereby directly fostering the growth of the South Korea Mobile App Development Market Industry.

Booming E-commerce Sector

The South Korea Mobile App Development Market Industry is significantly influenced by the rapid expansion of the e-commerce sector in the country. As per the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, e-commerce sales reached over 35 billion USD in 2022, showcasing a yearly growth of approximately 20%. 

This surge is primarily driven by consumer preferences shifting towards online shopping, with mobile applications being the preferred channel for many users.Major local players like Coupang and Gmarket are leading this transformation, often investing heavily in mobile app development to enhance user experiences. The growing trend of online shopping fosters the need for diverse mobile applications, thus propelling the South Korea Mobile App Development Market Industry forward.

Government Support for Digital Innovation

The South Korea Mobile App Development Market Industry benefits greatly from the government's focus on promoting digital innovation and technology. In recent years, the South Korean government has allocated significant funds for Research and Development (R&D) in the tech sector, reportedly increasing its budget for 2023 by 15% compared to the previous year, amounting to over 5 billion USD. 

This investment is aimed at enhancing mobile technologies and developing innovative applications that can meet global standards.Initiatives from organizations such as the Korea Creative Content Agency encourage startup ecosystem growth, which directly influences mobile app development. Consequently, this governmental support provides a conducive environment for developers, strengthening the advancement of the South Korea Mobile App Development Market Industry.

Growing Demand for Mobile Gaming

The South Korea Mobile App Development Market Industry is experiencing substantial growth due to the escalating demand for mobile gaming applications. As reported by the Korean Game Industry Agency, the revenue generated from mobile games exceeded 5 billion USD in 2022, reflecting a consistent increase as more users engage with mobile gaming content. 

South Korea has become one of the leading markets for mobile gaming, with a significant percentage of users (approximately 58%) regularly playing games on their smartphones.Prominent companies such as Netmarble and NCSoft are heavily investing in mobile game development, which not only amplifies the revenue stream but also fuels competitive innovation within the industry. This demand for gaming escalates the necessity for robust mobile applications and drives the growth of the South Korea Mobile App Development Market Industry.

South Korea Mobile App Development Market Segment Insights

Mobile App Development Market Platform Insights

The Platform segment of the South Korea Mobile App Development Market is characterized by dynamic growth driven by the widespread adoption of mobile technology across various demographics. With an overall market expected to reach significant values over the next decade, the South Korean landscape showcases the prominence of both Android and iOS platforms. Android, holding a substantial share of the user base, benefits from its open-source nature and wide range of devices, making it accessible to a diverse audience. 

This flexibility allows developers to optimize their apps for various hardware configurations, providing them with an edge in a competitive marketplace. Conversely, iOS, known for its strong brand loyalty among consumers, emphasizes premium quality and user experience. Apps developed for iOS often focus on performance and sleek design, attracting a high-value consumer segment willing to invest in premium applications. 

The South Korea Mobile App Development Market segmentation indicates that mobile app developers increasingly prioritize cross-platform functionalities to cater to both Android and iOS users, reflecting a growing trend in creating inclusive mobile experiences. The rapid advancement in technology, including the integration of artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things, is fortifying the capabilities of apps across these platforms, enhancing user engagement and functionality. 

Additionally, South Korea’s robust digital infrastructure, coupled with a high smartphone penetration rate, contributes to an environment conducive to mobile app innovation and growth. The increasing demand for mobile entertainment, banking, healthcare, and educational applications further fuels opportunities within the Platform segment. Moreover, collaborations with local enterprises and government initiatives to promote tech development provide a solid foundation for an evolving app landscape. As a result, the South Korea Mobile App Development Market continues to expand, driven by the growing consumption of digital content and mobile services that respond effectively to consumers’ needs on both dominant platforms.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Mobile App Development Market Application Insights

The South Korea Mobile App Development Market has seen substantial growth, particularly within the Application segment. This segment is significantly shaped by trends in digitalization and increased smartphone penetration across the nation, conducive to an expanding user base. Notably, the E-commerce arena stands out as a pivotal force, driven by South Korea's robust online shopping culture and the integration of mobile payment technologies. Similarly, the Banking sector benefits from a rapid shift towards mobile banking solutions, enhancing user convenience and accessibility while promoting financial literacy among younger audiences.

Furthermore, the Entertainment category plays a crucial role, with increasing demand for mobile games and streaming services reflecting changing consumer preferences for on-the-go access to entertainment options. Collectively, these segments illustrate the dynamism and transformative potential of the South Korea Mobile App Development Market, pointing to significant opportunities for innovation and growth in this fast-evolving landscape. The continued interest in improving user experience and service personalization will drive advancements within the market, establishing it as a key player in the regional and global economy.

South Korea Mobile App Development Market Key Players and Competitive Insights

The South Korea Mobile App Development Market has shown significant momentum over recent years, driven by the rapid digital transformation of businesses and an increasingly mobile-first consumer base. With a highly connected population, the prevalence of advanced smartphone technology, and a vibrant tech ecosystem, the competitive landscape is marked by innovation and aggressive strategies among key players. The market is characterized by a variety of stakeholders ranging from startups to well-established enterprises, each striving to capture consumer attention through unique applications that cater to diverse user needs. Additionally, the strong emphasis on creative design and functionality reflects the local culture's appreciation for quality and user experience, elevating the competitive dynamics within the industry.

FABCYCLE has carved out a notable presence within the South Korea Mobile App Development Market by focusing on environmentally conscious applications. With an emphasis on sustainability, FABCYCLE brings forth solutions that resonate well with the growing demographic of eco-aware consumers. Their strengths lie in their ability to integrate innovative technology with user-friendly interfaces, establishing themselves as a favored choice among users who prioritize sustainable practices. Moreover, the company's commitment to continuous improvement and adaptive design strategies allows it to stay ahead of trends, enhancing its competitive edge in a rapidly evolving market. The team behind FABCYCLE is made up of experienced developers and designers who ensure their offerings are not only functional but also engaging, which further solidifies their stature within the industry.

SK Telecom stands as a key player in the South Korea Mobile App Development Market, leveraging its extensive telecommunications infrastructure to enhance the delivery of mobile applications. The company offers a wide array of services that includes mobile gaming, social networking, and various utility applications aimed at improving user convenience and connectivity. SK Telecom's strengths are derived from its robust technological backbone, which facilitates seamless app performance and user experiences. 

Furthermore, the company actively engages in strategic partnerships and collaborations that allow it to expand its product portfolio, enhance innovation, and tap into emerging market trends. This proactive approach is reinforced by notable mergers and acquisitions that have bolstered its position in the mobile app sector, facilitating access to new technologies and expertise, ultimately contributing to its sustained competitive advantage in South Korea's dynamic market landscape.

Key Companies in the South Korea Mobile App Development Market Include:

• FABCYCLE


• SK Telecom


• LG Electronics


• Kakao


• Coupang


• Daum Communications


• Naver


• Mynet


• Zalora


• Line Corporation


• BlaBlaCar


• Netmarble


• Samsung Electronics


• NCSoft

South Korea Mobile App Development Market Industry Developments

Recent developments in the South Korea Mobile App Development Market showcase a vibrant ecosystem, with notable growth and innovation amongst key players. In September 2023, Kakao announced the expansion of its mobile payment services, capitalizing on the rise of digital transactions. 

Meanwhile, SK Telecom has been enhancing its mobile applications to incorporate Artificial Intelligence features, aimed at improving user experience. LG Electronics has been focusing on developing applications that aid in smart home integration, leveraging their extensive consumer electronics portfolio. 

Additionally, Samsung Electronics reported an increase in investment for Research and Development aimed at mobile applications that enhance device interconnectivity. In terms of mergers and acquisitions, in May 2023, Coupang finalized the acquisition of a smaller logistics app company to amplify its delivery capabilities. 

The valuation of mobile app development within the country has been projected to grow significantly, reinforcing South Korea's position as a leader in technology. The competitive landscape is further energized by Naver and Daum Communications, which are continually upgrading their platforms to capture market share in the growing demand for mobile solutions. Overall, the South Korean mobile app market continues to evolve rapidly, driven by technological advancements and strategic collaborations.

South Korea Mobile App Development Market Segmentation Insights

Mobile App Development Market Platform Outlook

• IOS


• Android

Mobile App Development Market Application Outlook

• E-commerce


• Banking


• Entertainment

 

Report Attribute/Metric Source:	Details
MARKET SIZE 2023	1.54(USD Billion)
MARKET SIZE 2024	1.89(USD Billion)
MARKET SIZE 2035	22.42(USD Billion)
COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR)	25.226% (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	FABCYCLE, SK Telecom, LG Electronics, Kakao, Coupang, Daum Communications, Naver, Mynet, Zalora, Line Corporation, BlaBlaCar, Netmarble, Samsung Electronics, NCSoft
SEGMENTS COVERED	Platform, Application
KEY MARKET OPPORTUNITIES	5G technology integration, E-commerce app growth, Health and fitness app demand, Enhanced gaming experiences, AI-powered personalized solutions
KEY MARKET DYNAMICS	High smartphone penetration, Growing demand for mobile games, Popularity of social media apps, Rising adoption of e-commerce, Government support for startups
COUNTRIES COVERED	South Korea