South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market Research Report By Application (Gaming, Education, Retail, Healthcare, Real Estate), By Device Type (Smartphones, Tablets, Wearable Devices, Smart Glasses), By Technology (Marker-Based Augmented Reality, Markerless Augmented Reality, Projection-Based Augmented Reality, Superimposition-Based Augmented Reality) and By End Use (Individual Users, Enterprise Users, Government)- Forecast to 2035

South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market Overview

As per MRFR analysis, the South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market Size was estimated at 267.75 (USD Million) in 2023.The South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market Industry is expected to grow from 388.15(USD Million) in 2024 to 1,354 (USD Million) by 2035. The South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 12.029% during the forecast period (2025 - 2035)

Key South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market Trends Highlighted

The South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market is undergoing substantial growth, which is being driven by the increasing prevalence of smartphones and high-speed internet connectivity. The demand for mobile augmented reality applications in a variety of sectors, such as education, entertainment, and retail, has been further fueled by the government of South Korea's active promotion of digital and technological advancements. Consumers are increasingly pursuing immersive experiences that augmented reality offers, such as virtual try-ons in fashion and cosmetics, which enhances online purchasing experiences, due to the tech-savvy population. 

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of mobile games that have integrated augmented reality features, which have enraptured users. The proliferation of AR-enhanced gaming applications has incited developers and brands to allocate additional resources to this technology, thereby fostering a flourishing ecosystem in South Korea. Additionally, local businesses are investigating educational opportunities by incorporating augmented reality into classrooms, which enables innovative learning methods. This trend demonstrates the potential to enhance student engagement and retention rates. 

South Korea continues to be a leader in the adoption of technology, which presents opportunities for further innovation in mobile AR solutions that are customized to the distinctive preferences of its population. The emphasis on improving the user experience through augmented reality is becoming increasingly important as businesses strive to distinguish themselves in a competitive marketplace. Additional opportunities for development and innovation in the South Korean market are presented by the potential for collaboration with industries such as healthcare, real estate, and tourism.

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

South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market Drivers

Growing Mobile Penetration and Smartphone Adoption

The South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market Industry is experiencing significant growth driven by the high penetration of mobile devices and the increasing adoption of smartphones. As of early 2023, South Korea has one of the highest mobile penetration rates globally, with approximately 98 percent of the population owning a smartphone. According to the Ministry of Science and ICT, there has been a 15 percent increase in smartphone users from 2019 to 2022.

This trend fosters the demand for augmented reality applications, as consumers seek immersive experiences via their smartphones. Companies like Samsung and LG are contributing to this trend by launching new devices equipped with advanced capabilities for augmented reality experiences. The consistent rise in mobile ownership enhances the potential for augmented reality applications in various sectors including gaming, retail, and education, thereby providing a robust foundation for the South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market.

Increased Investment in Research and Development

Investment in Research and Development (R&D) for augmented reality technologies is a significant driver for the South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market Industry. The South Korean government has initiated several funding programs aimed at enhancing technological innovation in the field of augmented reality. For instance, the government announced a funding of 100 million USD in 2022 to support technology startups specializing in augmented reality.

This level of investment is aimed at fostering more innovative solutions and applications that meet the diverse needs of consumers and industries. Additionally, established firms such as Naver and Kakao are key players in driving advancements in mobile augmented reality applications, thereby promoting further economic growth in this sector.

Growing Demand for Interactive Marketing Solutions

The rise of e-commerce and the increasing demand for interactive marketing solutions have fueled the growth of the South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market Industry. According to a report from the South Korean Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy, e-commerce sales in South Korea reached 162 billion USD in 2022, representing a 20 percent increase from the previous year. 

Retailers are turning to augmented reality technologies to enhance customer engagement and provide interactive shopping experiences, making it easier for consumers to visualize products in their environment before making a purchase.Major retail firms such as Shinsegae and Lotte are integrating augmented reality features into their online platforms, thereby driving market growth as these innovative strategies capture consumer attention and improve sales conversion rates.

Enhancements in Technology and Infrastructure

The technological advancements and developments in infrastructure are crucial market drivers for the South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market Industry. The rollout of 5G networks across South Korea has been a game changer, providing faster internet speeds and reduced latency, which are essential for delivering seamless augmented reality experiences. According to the Korea Information Society Development Institute, the implementation of 5G is expected to reach 90 percent coverage nationwide by 2025.

This upgrade in communication technology serves as a catalyst for various applications of augmented reality in sectors like healthcare, education, and entertainment. Companies like KT Corporation and SK Telecom are at the forefront of this transformation, ensuring that the infrastructure supports the high demand for advanced mobile augmented reality solutions.

South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market Segment Insights:

Mobile Augmented Reality Market Application Insights

The South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market demonstrates a dynamic landscape centered around the Application segment, which includes diverse areas such as Gaming, Education, Retail, Healthcare, and Real Estate. This segment is witnessing significant growth, driven by the rapid adoption of mobile devices and advancements in augmented reality technology. In Gaming, the immersive experiences provided by augmented reality applications are reshaping how users engage with entertainment, allowing them to interact with virtual elements in real space.Education is also embracing mobile augmented reality, as it enhances learning experiences, making concepts more tangible and engaging for students. Retail is leveraging augmented reality to offer virtual try-ons and interactive product visualizations; such innovations enhance customer experience and increase sales conversions. 

The Healthcare industry is using augmented reality applications for training simulations and real-time surgical assistance, improving patient outcomes and medical training practices. Finally, in Real Estate, augmented reality facilitates virtual property tours, allowing potential buyers to visualize spaces without physical presence, which has gained traction especially post-pandemic.The increasing penetration of smartphones and internet access in South Korea further fuels these applications, leading to a rise in innovative solutions aimed at consumers and industry professionals alike. Additionally, the South Korean government has shown interest in fostering the development of augmented reality technologies, recognizing their potential impact on various sectors. Overall, the Application segment within the South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market is poised for substantial growth, driven by technological advancements, changing consumer behavior, and heightened interest across multiple fields.

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

Mobile Augmented Reality Market Device Type Insights

The Device Type segment of the South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market showcases a blend of technology and innovation that underlines the growing importance of mobile augmented reality applications. In particular, smartphones lead the segment due to their widespread usage and advanced camera capabilities, which facilitate immersive augmented reality experiences. This dominance is fueled by an increasing consumer preference for on-the-go access to augmented reality features for both entertainment and practical applications, such as navigation and shopping.Tablets also contribute significantly, offering a larger screen for augmented content, thereby enhancing user engagement and experience in areas like education and interactive marketing. 

Wearable devices, including smartwatches and fitness trackers, are gaining traction as they redefine how users interact with augmented reality, blending physical and digital realms seamlessly. Smart glasses remain a niche but evolving segment, promising hands-free augmented interactions that could revolutionize industries like healthcare, manufacturing, and gaming.Overall, the segmentation analysis within the South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market reflects a trend towards devices that enhance user experience, supported by a growing ecosystem of applications and content tailored to different device capabilities.

Mobile Augmented Reality Market Technology Insights

The South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market, focusing on the Technology segment, showcases a diverse range of applications that enhance user experience in various fields such as education, gaming, and retail. Among these applications, Marker-Based Augmented Reality utilizes specific visual markers to trigger the display of digital information, making it significant in interactive marketing initiatives. Conversely, Markerless Augmented Reality offers flexibility as it does not rely on any predefined markers, thus facilitating its integration into everyday life scenarios, particularly in navigation and tourism.

Projection-Based Augmented Reality, on the other hand, stands out for its ability to project digital content onto physical surfaces, creating immersive experiences in exhibitions and artistic installations. Finally, Superimposition-Based Augmented Reality enhances real-world views by overlaying additional information, which plays a critical role in training and assembly processes within industries. The segmentation of the South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market is indicative of the growing demand for innovative technology solutions that drive engagement and functionality across numerous sectors, aligning with the country's ambitious stance on technological advancement.

Mobile Augmented Reality Market End Use Insights

The South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market is experiencing significant growth across various end-use categories, primarily involving Individual Users, Enterprise Users, and Government. The surge in smartphone adoption and the increasing availability of augmented reality applications are driving the market dynamics for Individual Users, who seek enhanced interactive experiences. This segment is significantly contributing to the market's expansion as consumers increasingly embrace AR for gaming, education, and social interactions. 

On the other hand, the Enterprise Users segment is gaining traction as businesses recognize the potential of augmented reality for improving operational efficiency and employee training programs, thereby playing a crucial role in transforming business processes.The Government segment is also becoming increasingly relevant, with applications in public safety, urban planning, and education, as governmental bodies push for modernization and improved citizen engagement through technological innovations. With South Korea being at the forefront of technology adoption and innovation, the demand for augmented reality applications across these segments reflects a broader trend of digital transformation and enhanced user engagement, setting the stage for future growth in the South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market.

South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market Key Players and Competitive Insights

The competitive insights of the South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market reveal a dynamic landscape characterized by rapid technological advancements, strong consumer interest, and a growing ecosystem of developers and content creators. This market is fueled by high smartphone penetration rates and increasing demand for immersive experiences across varied applications. Companies are focusing on enhancing user experiences and integrating augmented reality (AR) into everyday life, including entertainment, education, and retail. Collaboration among businesses, startups, and academic institutions is fostering innovation, driving competition, and leading to novel solutions that capture the attention of consumers. 

As the industry continues to mature, players in the market are striving to differentiate themselves by offering unique features, strategic partnerships, and leveraging artificial intelligence to optimize AR experiences.In the context of Naver's presence in the South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market, the company has established a strong foothold by leveraging its robust digital platform and integrating AR features into its existing services. Naver’s strengths lie in its extensive user base and its ability to utilize data analytics to create personalized and engaging user experiences. The company has successfully incorporated AR into various applications, such as navigation and e-commerce, enhancing customer interaction and satisfaction. Naver's innovative approach to content creation and distribution has positioned it favorably among competitors, enabling it to tap into a growing demand for AR technology, especially in urban areas where digital integration enhances everyday tasks.

SK Telecom plays a significant role in the South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market, focusing on delivering high-quality AR content and services through its advanced telecommunication infrastructure. The company has been proactive in developing and deploying AR technologies, emphasizing applications in entertainment, retail, and education. SK Telecom's strength lies in its extensive 5G network, which facilitates seamless AR experiences for users. The company has also engaged in strategic partnerships and collaborations to expand its AR offerings, ensuring a competitive edge in the ever-evolving market landscape. Initiatives such as mergers and acquisitions have allowed SK Telecom to integrate innovative AR capabilities into its services, fostering growth and establishing a leading position in the South Korean market. Their commitment to innovation and user engagement continues to keep them at the forefront of mobile augmented reality advancements.

Key Companies in the South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market Include

• Naver
• SK Telecom
• Unity Technologies
• Daum Communications
• Google
• Epic Games
• Apple
• Samsung
• LG Electronics
• Microsoft
• Oculus
• Kakao

South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market Industry Developments

In June 2023, Naver introduced its AR Cloud service, which is designed to facilitate the sharing of augmented reality experiences across urban environments. This initiative drives home the organization's emphasis on spatial computing and scalable AR infrastructure.In 2024, SK Telcom introduced 'ChangdeokARirang', an AR application that utilizes 5G technology to provide users with captivating excursions of Changdeokgung Palace. 

Ultra-low latency and authentic AR content are provided by the service, which utilizes 5G edge cloud, ARCore, Lighting Estimation, and Cloud Anchor technology. This includes a fabled Haechi guide to optimize storytelling.SK Telecom also introduced AR and VR services for esports enthusiasts in 2024. These services include 'Jump AR', which teleports users into the esports arena, and 'VR Replay' and 'LCK VR Live Broadcasting', which provide immersive, 360-degree viewing experiences via 5G networks.

South Korea Mobile Augmented Reality Market Segmentation Insights

Mobile Augmented Reality Market Application Outlook

• • Gaming
  • Education
  • Retail
  • Healthcare
  • Real Estate

Mobile Augmented Reality Market Device Type Outlook

• • Smartphones
  • Tablets
  • Wearable Devices
  • Smart Glasses

Mobile Augmented Reality Market Technology Outlook

• • Marker-Based Augmented Reality
  • Markerless Augmented Reality
  • Projection-Based Augmented Reality
  • Superimposition-Based Augmented Reality

Mobile Augmented Reality Market End Use Outlook

• • Individual Users
  • Enterprise Users
  • Government

 

Report Attribute/Metric Source:	Details
MARKET SIZE 2023	267.75(USD Million)
MARKET SIZE 2024	388.15(USD Million)
MARKET SIZE 2035	1354.0(USD Million)
COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR)	12.029% (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 Million
KEY COMPANIES PROFILED	Naver, SK Telecom, Unity Technologies, Daum Communications, Google, Epic Games, Apple, Samsung, Snap Inc., LINE Corporation, Neowiz, LG Electronics, Microsoft, Oculus, Kakao
SEGMENTS COVERED	Application, Device Type, Technology, End Use
KEY MARKET OPPORTUNITIES	Increased gaming adoption, Enhanced retail experiences, Education and training innovations, Remote collaboration tools, Tourism and cultural enhancements
KEY MARKET DYNAMICS	Increasing smartphone penetration, Growing gaming industry, Rising demand for immersive experiences, Advancements in AR technology, Government support and investment
COUNTRIES COVERED	South Korea