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South Korea Naphthalene Market

ID: MRFR/CnM/47230-HCR
200 Pages
Chitranshi Jaiswal
October 2025

South Korea Naphthalene Market Research Report By Source (Coal Tar, Petroleum), By Application (Plasticizer, Pesticide, Surfactant & Wetting Agent) and By End-User Industry (Agriculture, Building & Construction, Textile, Chemical, Polymer, Pharmaceutical) - Forecast to 2035

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South Korea Naphthalene Market Infographic
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South Korea Naphthalene Market Summary

As per Market Research Future analysis, the South Korea naphthalene market Size was estimated at 14.8 USD Million in 2024. The South Korea naphthalene market is projected to grow from 15.23 USD Million in 2025 to 20.3 USD Million by 2035, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.9% during the forecast period 2025 - 2035

Key Market Trends & Highlights

The South Korea naphthalene market is experiencing a robust growth trajectory driven by industrial demand and sustainability initiatives.

  • The largest segment in the South Korea naphthalene market is chemical manufacturing, which is witnessing rising demand for naphthalene-based products.
  • Technological advancements are fostering innovations that enhance the efficiency of naphthalene applications across various industries.
  • The fastest-growing segment is the textile industry, which is increasingly adopting naphthalene for its dyeing and finishing processes.
  • Key market drivers include the expansion of the textile industry and regulatory support for chemical industries, which are propelling market growth.

Market Size & Forecast

2024 Market Size 14.8 (USD Million)
2035 Market Size 20.3 (USD Million)
CAGR (2025 - 2035) 2.91%

Major Players

BASF SE (DE), ExxonMobil Chemical (US), Koppers Inc. (US), Kraton Corporation (US), Kuwait Aromatics Company (KW), Nippon Steel Chemical & Material Co., Ltd. (JP), RÜTGERS Group (DE), SABIC (SA), Shandong Jianxin Chemical Co., Ltd. (CN)

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South Korea Naphthalene Market Trends

The naphthalene market in South Korea is currently experiencing notable developments driven by various factors. The demand for naphthalene, primarily utilized in the production of phthalic anhydride, is on the rise due to its applications in plastics, dyes, and other chemical products. This trend appears to be influenced by the growing industrial sector, which is increasingly relying on naphthalene derivatives for manufacturing processes. Furthermore, the regulatory landscape surrounding chemical production is evolving, prompting manufacturers to adopt more sustainable practices. This shift may lead to innovations in production methods, potentially enhancing efficiency and reducing environmental impact. In addition, the naphthalene market is witnessing a shift towards more eco-friendly alternatives. As environmental concerns gain prominence, industries are exploring options that minimize carbon footprints. This trend could reshape the competitive landscape, as companies that invest in sustainable practices may gain a competitive edge. Moreover, the ongoing advancements in technology are likely to facilitate the development of new applications for naphthalene, further expanding its market potential. Overall, the naphthalene market in South Korea appears poised for growth, driven by industrial demand, regulatory changes, and a focus on sustainability.

Rising Demand in Industrial Applications

The naphthalene market is experiencing increased demand from various industrial sectors. This growth is largely attributed to the expanding use of naphthalene in the production of phthalic anhydride, which is essential for manufacturing plastics and other chemical products. As industries continue to evolve, the reliance on naphthalene derivatives is expected to strengthen, indicating a robust market trajectory.

Shift Towards Sustainable Practices

There is a noticeable trend towards sustainability within the naphthalene market. As environmental regulations become stricter, manufacturers are compelled to adopt greener production methods. This shift not only addresses regulatory compliance but also aligns with consumer preferences for eco-friendly products, potentially influencing market dynamics.

Technological Advancements and Innovations

Technological progress is playing a crucial role in shaping the naphthalene market. Innovations in production techniques and applications are emerging, which may enhance efficiency and open new avenues for naphthalene use. This trend suggests that ongoing research and development could significantly impact market growth and diversification.

Market Segment Insights

By Source: Coal Tar (Largest) vs. Petroleum (Fastest-Growing)

In the South Korea naphthalene market, Coal Tar holds a significant share, dominating the source segment due to its established production capabilities and the historical reliance on coal-based materials. Conversely, Petroleum, while currently smaller in market share compared to Coal Tar, is emerging rapidly, driven by technological advancements and a shift towards more efficient production methods. The growth of the Petroleum segment is fueled by increasing demand for naphthalene derivatives in various applications, including the production of dyes and surfactants. As industries seek to reduce their environmental impact, Petroleum's versatility and lower emissions present it as an attractive alternative. Innovations in extraction and refining processes further bolster its potential, positioning it as the fastest-growing source in the market.

Source: Coal Tar (Dominant) vs. Petroleum (Emerging)

Coal Tar, as the dominant source in the South Korea naphthalene market, is characterized by its robust supply chain and established usage in traditional applications like road repair and chemical manufacturing. Its prevalence is linked to the abundance of coal resources and the historical significance of coal tar pitch in various industrial processes. On the other hand, Petroleum is emerging as a vital source due to its flexibility and compatibility with modern production technologies. As environmental regulations tighten, the naphthalene derivatives derived from Petroleum are gaining traction, appealing to manufacturers looking for sustainable solutions. Both sources have unique attributes, yet the trend indicates a gradual shift towards Petroleum as industries prioritize sustainability and efficiency.

By Application: Plasticizers (Largest) vs. Surfactant & Wetting agents (Fastest-Growing)

In the South Korea naphthalene market, the application segment is primarily characterized by plasticizers, pesticides, and surfactant & wetting agents. Among these, plasticizers hold the largest market share, driven by the increasing demand in construction and automotive industries. Pesticides also contribute significantly, albeit at a smaller scale, as regulatory trends shift toward sustainable agricultural practices. In contrast, surfactant & wetting agents have emerged as a notable segment, appealing particularly to manufacturers seeking enhanced performance in formulations. Growth trends in the application segment reveal an increasing focus on eco-friendly and efficient product formulations. As regulations become more stringent, manufacturers are pivoting towards surfactants and biodegradable plasticizers. This shift is largely fueled by rising consumer awareness and preference for sustainable solutions. Consequently, while plasticizers remain dominant, surfactant & wetting agents are on a rapid growth trajectory, underpinned by innovation and a shift towards greener alternatives in various applications.

Plasticizers (Dominant) vs. Surfactant & Wetting agents (Emerging)

Plasticizers are predominantly utilized in the production of flexible polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and other materials that require enhanced durability and flexibility. They are foundational in the construction and automotive sectors, providing essential properties that enhance the performance of end-products. In contrast, surfactant & wetting agents play a crucial role in improving the wetting and dispersion qualities of various formulations across industries such as detergents, personal care, and agrochemicals. This emerging segment is gaining traction due to its versatility and performance-enhancing capabilities, making it increasingly attractive to innovative manufacturers aiming to meet evolving consumer demands for both functionality and sustainability.

By End-User Industry: Chemical (Largest) vs. Agriculture (Fastest-Growing)

In the South Korea naphthalene market, the end-user industry is significantly dominated by the chemical sector, which holds the largest share. This segment includes various applications, such as solvent production and as an intermediate in chemical synthesis, reflecting robust demand driven by industrial activities. Following closely, other segments like building & construction and textile also contribute notably, albeit on a smaller scale in comparison to chemicals, which remains the backbone of market demand. The growth trends in the South Korea naphthalene market reveal a notable rise in the agriculture sector, labeled as the fastest-growing segment. This surge is primarily attributed to the increasing usage of naphthalene in agrochemicals, driven by the growing need for crop protection products and soil enhancement. As agricultural practices evolve and technological advancements enhance the efficacy of naphthalene-based products, this segment is expected to witness substantial growth, coupled with rising demand for sustainable agricultural solutions.

Chemical: Dominant vs. Agriculture: Emerging

The chemical segment remains dominant within the South Korea naphthalene market due to its extensive application range, including the production of various specialty chemicals and solvents. This sector benefits from established manufacturing infrastructures and robust industrial demand, ensuring sustained performance. Conversely, the agriculture segment is rapidly emerging, fueled by innovations in agricultural technologies and environmental considerations influencing farming practices. Naphthalene's role as a key ingredient in agricultural formulations for pest and disease control positions it as a crucial ally in modern farming, facilitating improved crop yields and sustainable practices, thus capturing the market's attention as a vital area of future growth.

Get more detailed insights about South Korea Naphthalene Market

Key Players and Competitive Insights

The naphthalene market exhibits a competitive landscape characterized by a blend of established players and emerging companies, driven by increasing demand across various applications such as plastics, dyes, and pharmaceuticals. Key growth drivers include the rising need for high-performance materials and the ongoing shift towards sustainable production methods. Major companies like BASF SE (Germany), ExxonMobil Chemical (US), and SABIC (Saudi Arabia) are strategically positioned to leverage their extensive R&D capabilities and The naphthalene market presence. Their focus on innovation and sustainability initiatives appears to shape the competitive environment, fostering a landscape where technological advancements and eco-friendly practices are paramount.In terms of business tactics, companies are increasingly localizing manufacturing to reduce lead times and optimize supply chains. The market structure is moderately fragmented, with a mix of large multinational corporations and smaller regional players. This fragmentation allows for diverse competitive strategies, as key players like Koppers Inc. (US) and Kuwait Aromatics Company (Kuwait) adopt tailored approaches to meet local market demands while maintaining global standards.

In October BASF SE (Germany) announced the launch of a new naphthalene-based product line aimed at enhancing the performance of construction materials. This strategic move underscores BASF's commitment to innovation and sustainability, as the new products are designed to reduce environmental impact while improving material durability. Such initiatives not only strengthen BASF's market position but also align with the growing trend towards sustainable construction practices.

In September ExxonMobil Chemical (US) expanded its naphthalene production capacity in South Korea, investing approximately $50 million in state-of-the-art technology. This expansion is significant as it enables ExxonMobil to meet the increasing demand for naphthalene derivatives in the region, particularly in the automotive and electronics sectors. The investment reflects a strategic focus on enhancing operational efficiency and responsiveness to market needs, positioning ExxonMobil favorably against competitors.

In August SABIC (Saudi Arabia) entered into a strategic partnership with a local South Korean firm to develop innovative naphthalene applications for the textile industry. This collaboration is indicative of SABIC's strategy to penetrate niche markets and diversify its product offerings. By leveraging local expertise, SABIC aims to enhance its competitive edge and foster innovation in textile manufacturing, which is increasingly seeking sustainable solutions.

As of November the naphthalene market is witnessing trends that emphasize digitalization, sustainability, and the integration of AI technologies. Strategic alliances among key players are shaping the competitive landscape, facilitating knowledge sharing and resource optimization. The shift from price-based competition to a focus on innovation and supply chain reliability is evident, suggesting that companies will increasingly differentiate themselves through technological advancements and sustainable practices. This evolution indicates a promising future for the naphthalene market, where competitive dynamics will be defined by the ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences and regulatory landscapes.

Key Companies in the South Korea Naphthalene Market include

Industry Developments

In recent months, the South Korea Naphthalene Market has seen various developments impacting key players such as LG Chem, OCI, and Lotte Chemical. As of October 2023, the growth trajectory of the naphthalene sector has been influenced by increased demand in the manufacturing of specialty chemicals and plastics, which are critical for various industries like automotive and construction. Additionally, in August 2023, ShinEtsu Chemical announced expansions in naphthalene production capacity to cater to rising domestic needs.

Several companies are reportedly focusing on Research and Development activities to innovate naphthalene-based products, aiming to enhance application fields. In terms of mergers and acquisitions, no significant transactions involving the key players in this market were reported in the last few months. However, over the past two years, Daelim Industrial has pursued strategic partnerships to enhance its naphthalene offerings. Government initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable chemical production are also shaping the market landscape. Overall, the evolving regulatory framework in South Korea is expected to further influence market dynamics and the operational strategies of its major players.

Future Outlook

South Korea Naphthalene Market Future Outlook

The naphthalene market is projected to grow at 2.91% CAGR from 2025 to 2035, driven by increasing demand in various applications and advancements in production technologies.

New opportunities lie in:

  • Development of eco-friendly naphthalene derivatives for specialty applications.
  • Expansion of distribution networks to enhance market reach and customer access.
  • Investment in R&D for innovative naphthalene-based products targeting emerging industries.

By 2035, the naphthalene market is expected to achieve robust growth, reflecting evolving industry dynamics.

Market Segmentation

South Korea Naphthalene Market Source Outlook

  • Coal Tar
  • Petroleum

South Korea Naphthalene Market Application Outlook

  • Plasticizers
  • Pesticides
  • Surfactant & Wetting agents

South Korea Naphthalene Market End-User Industry Outlook

  • Agriculture
  • Building & Construction
  • Textile
  • Chemical
  • Polymer
  • Pharmaceutical

Report Scope

MARKET SIZE 2024 14.8(USD Million)
MARKET SIZE 2025 15.23(USD Million)
MARKET SIZE 2035 20.3(USD Million)
COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR) 2.91% (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 BASF SE (DE), ExxonMobil Chemical (US), Koppers Inc. (US), Kraton Corporation (US), Kuwait Aromatics Company (KW), Nippon Steel Chemical & Material Co., Ltd. (JP), RÜTGERS Group (DE), SABIC (SA), Shandong Jianxin Chemical Co., Ltd. (CN)
Segments Covered Source, Application, End-User Industry
Key Market Opportunities Growing demand for naphthalene in specialty chemicals and advanced materials presents significant market opportunities.
Key Market Dynamics Rising demand for naphthalene in South Korea driven by expanding applications in chemicals and plastics industries.
Countries Covered South Korea
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FAQs

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

The South Korea Naphthalene Market is expected to be valued at approximately 14.8 million USD in 2024.

What will be the market size of the South Korea Naphthalene Market by 2035?

By 2035, the South Korea Naphthalene Market is projected to reach a value of around 20.5 million USD.

What is the expected CAGR for the South Korea Naphthalene Market from 2025 to 2035?

The anticipated CAGR for the South Korea Naphthalene Market during the period from 2025 to 2035 is 3.006 %.

Which segment is expected to dominate the South Korea Naphthalene Market in 2024?

In 2024, the Petroleum segment is expected to dominate the South Korea Naphthalene Market with a value of approximately 8.8 million USD.

How much is the Coal Tar segment valued at in the South Korea Naphthalene Market for 2024?

The Coal Tar segment of the South Korea Naphthalene Market is valued at around 6.0 million USD in 2024.

Who are the major players in the South Korea Naphthalene Market?

Key players in the South Korea Naphthalene Market include SOil, ShinEtsu Chemical, OCI, Mitsubishi Gas Chemical, and Lotte Chemical.

What is the projected value of the Coal Tar segment in the South Korea Naphthalene Market by 2035?

By 2035, the Coal Tar segment of the South Korea Naphthalene Market is expected to be valued at approximately 8.1 million USD.

What growth opportunities exist in the South Korea Naphthalene Market?

Growth opportunities in the South Korea Naphthalene Market are driven by increasing demand for naphthalene in various applications.

What significant challenges does the South Korea Naphthalene Market face?

The South Korea Naphthalene Market faces challenges such as fluctuating raw material prices and environmental regulations.

What are the applications driving growth in the South Korea Naphthalene Market?

Applications such as solvents, plastics, and pharmaceuticals are key drivers of growth in the South Korea Naphthalene Market.

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