South Korea Retinal Drugs Market Overview
As per MRFR analysis, the South Korea Retinal Drugs Market Size was estimated at 145.11 (USD Million) in 2023. The South Korea Retinal Drugs Market Industry is expected to grow from 154.25(USD Million) in 2024 to 347.82 (USD Million) by 2035. The South Korea Retinal Drugs Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 7.672% during the forecast period (2025 - 2035)
Key South Korea Retinal Drugs Market Trends Highlighted
The South Korea Retinal Drugs Market is experiencing significant changes driven by several key factors. One of the primary market drivers is the increasing prevalence of retinal diseases, including diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration, which has been recognized as a growing health concern by South Korean health authorities. The aging population in South Korea is further fueling this demand, as older adults are more susceptible to vision impairment and related diseases.
Moreover, advancements in drug formulations and delivery methods are contributing to the market's revitalization, enabling more effective treatments with fewer side effects.There are numerous opportunities to be explored in this market, particularly with the rise of biopharmaceuticals. The South Korean government has implemented supportive regulations to boost the development and approval of innovative therapies, creating an environment conducive to research and development. Companies are also increasingly collaborating with local universities and research institutions to foster innovation in retinal drug development.
These partnerships can lead to breakthroughs that improve patient outcomes and drive market growth. Recent trends show a notable shift toward personalized medicine in retinal therapeutics, emphasizing targeted treatments based on individual patient profiles.The growing focus on patient-centric care is also prompting pharmaceutical companies to engage more with healthcare providers to ensure their products meet the specific needs of patients.
Digital health technologies, including telemedicine and mobile health applications, are being integrated into treatment plans, enhancing patient monitoring and adherence to therapy. The South Korean healthcare system's emphasis on technological integration is driving these modern trends, making the market dynamic and responsive to patient needs.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review
South Korea Retinal Drugs Market Drivers
Increasing Prevalence of Retinal Disorders
The rising incidence of retinal conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is driving substantial expansion in the South Korea retinal drugs market. According to the Korean Statistical Information Service, the percentage of people 65 and older in South Korea is predicted to climb to 24.9% by 2030, a result of the country's ageing population. Retinal medication demand is being driven by groups like the Korean Ophthalmological Society, which are promoting better screening and treatment practices in response.
The proactive approach taken by government agencies to finance ophthalmic research and the increased awareness of eye health issues support this expansion even more. According to a Korean National Health Insurance Service report, the number of instances with diabetic retinopathy has risen by almost 21% in the last five years, underscoring the critical need for efficient treatment alternatives on the market.
Advancements in Research and Development
The South Korea Retinal Drugs Market Industry benefits immensely from advancements in Research and Development (R&D). The South Korean government has been actively investing in R&D initiatives, directed towards the development of innovative therapeutic solutions for retinal diseases. According to the Ministry of Science and ICT, the country's investment in R&D reached approximately 5% of its GDP, prompting biopharmaceutical companies to accelerate their research efforts.
Companies like Novartis and Bayer have established R&D centers in South Korea focusing on retinal drugs, thus increasing the pipeline of new therapies. The introduction of novel biologics and gene therapies is expected to revolutionize treatment options and positively impact the market, giving rise to a competitive edge in the global landscape.
Supportive Regulatory Framework
A supportive regulatory framework in South Korea significantly enhances the growth of the South Korea Retinal Drugs Market Industry. The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) has streamlined the approval process for new drugs, leading to shorter time-to-market for innovative retinal therapies. The agency's initiatives, such as the Conditional Approval System introduced in 2020, allow for expedited access to critical treatments for patients with retinal disorders.
As a result, companies like HanAll Biopharma are actively pursuing the development and commercialization of retinal drugs. The positive collaboration between the pharmaceutical industry and government regulatory agencies has led to a more conducive environment for medical advancements, which in turn fuels market growth as more therapies gain approval and reach patients in need.
South Korea Retinal Drugs Market Segment Insights
Retinal Drugs Market Distribution Channel Insights
The Distribution Channel segment of the South Korea Retinal Drugs Market plays a crucial role in ensuring the availability and accessibility of retinal drugs to patients and healthcare providers. Hospital pharmacies are pivotal in this segment as they provide tailored medications directly to inpatients and outpatients, often managing complex prescriptions and therapies for retinal disorders.
Their integration with healthcare facilities facilitates efficient prescription handling and patient monitoring, making them a vital source of therapeutic access.Retail pharmacies, on the other hand, serve as an essential point of access for patients requiring retinal drugs, providing a convenient option for individuals to obtain their prescriptions.
They are often strategically located in urban areas, ensuring that patients can quickly access necessary medications. The rise of online pharmacies has transformed the retail landscape, offering an alternative that caters to a tech-savvy population seeking convenience and privacy in their pharmaceutical purchases. This channel is particularly important for patients who may face mobility challenges or wish to avoid in-person visits, highlighting its expanding role in the distribution of retinal drugs.
As the South Korean healthcare system continues to evolve, driven by technological advancements and a shift toward patient-centric care, each distribution channel adapts to meet the needs of varied patient demographics, thereby enhancing the overall efficacy of the South Korea Retinal Drugs Market.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Retinal Drugs Market Indication Insights
The South Korea Retinal Drugs Market is witnessing significant growth driven by various indications, with a focus on conditions such as Macular degeneration and Diabetic eye disease. Macular degeneration remains a critical indication as it is a leading cause of vision loss among the aging population in South Korea, emphasizing the need for effective treatment options. The increasing prevalence of Diabetic eye disease, attributed to the rising number of diabetes cases in the nation, is also a significant driver for the market. This condition commonly leads to complications affecting retinal health, making timely intervention vital.
Other indications are emerging, although they hold a smaller share of the market compared to the aforementioned conditions. The market landscape is influenced by ongoing Research and Development efforts, government initiatives to raise awareness of ocular health, and advancements in treatment modalities which address the diverse needs of patients. Overall, the South Korea Retinal Drugs Market segmentation highlights crucial areas where innovations can improve patient outcomes and potentially enhance quality of life for individuals facing these serious eye conditions.
South Korea Retinal Drugs Market Key Players and Competitive Insights
The South Korea Retinal Drugs Market has observed significant growth in recent years, driven by an increasing prevalence of retinal diseases, rising awareness about eye health, and advancements in pharmaceutical research and development. The competitive landscape of this market is characterized by numerous players engaged in the development and commercialization of innovative therapies targeting various retinal conditions such as age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal vein occlusion.
Companies are leveraging their research capabilities and forming strategic partnerships to enhance their product pipelines and expand their market presence. As the market evolves, competitive insights reveal the dynamics of innovation, market penetration strategies, and collaboration among key players striving to meet the growing demand for effective retinal treatments in South Korea.Hanmi Pharmaceutical holds a noteworthy position in the South Korean retinal drugs market, driven by its strong commitment to innovation and extensive research capabilities. The company's focus on developing high-quality treatments for ocular diseases positions it as a key player in this niche segment.
Hanmi Pharmaceutical leverages its expertise in biopharmaceuticals to enhance therapeutic options for retinal conditions. Its robust pipeline of potential products showcases the commitment to addressing unmet medical needs in the field of ophthalmology. Furthermore, the company's established distribution networks and partnerships with healthcare professionals ensure effective delivery and accessibility of its retinal drugs to patients, boosting its competitive edge within the South Korean market.Hugel has established itself as a significant player in the South Korean retinal drugs market, focusing on the development of innovative products aimed at treating various retinal diseases.
The company’s portfolio includes cutting-edge therapies that address critical needs in the ophthalmic domain, reflecting its dedication to advancing eye care. Hugel’s strengths lie in its comprehensive product development process and ability to bring advanced treatment options to market efficiently. The company has actively pursued strategic mergers and acquisitions to enhance its capabilities and expand its reach, solidifying its position in the competitive landscape.
Additionally, Hugel's commitment to research and development allows it to stay ahead of market trends, ensuring that it can respond effectively to the evolving needs of patients and healthcare providers in South Korea. The combination of strong product offerings and an innovative approach contributes to Hugel's growing footprint in the retinal drugs sector.
Key Companies in the South Korea Retinal Drugs Market Include
- Hanmi Pharmaceutical
- Hugel
- Lumenis
- Allergan
- Santen Pharmaceutical
- Daewon Pharmaceutical
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals
- Eisai
- Novartis
- Kowa Company
- Pfizer
- Celgene
- Roche
- Bayer
- Samsung Bioepis
South Korea Retinal Drugs Market Industry Developments
Recent developments in the South Korea Retinal Drugs Market indicate a dynamic landscape driven by competition among key players such as Hanmi Pharmaceutical, Hugel, and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals. In October 2023, Hanmi Pharmaceutical announced advancements in its retinal drug pipeline, focusing on innovative treatments for age-related macular degeneration, capitalizing on a growing demand for effective therapies. Hugel also revealed its plans to expand its portfolio, which includes novel retinal therapies aimed at improving patient outcomes.
The market's growth is underscored by significant increases in valuation, as companies like Novartis and Bayer report enhanced market presence due to strategic partnerships within the region. In terms of mergers and acquisitions, Santen Pharmaceutical completed the acquisition of a regional competitor in September 2023, bolstering its position within the sector. Continuous advancements in Research and Development among these companies, along with favorable regulatory support from the South Korean government aimed at enhancing healthcare access, are fueling market momentum. The South Korean retinal drugs market is projected to see enhanced investment and innovation, particularly as ocular diseases become more prevalent in the aging population.
South Korea Retinal Drugs Market Segmentation Insights
- Retinal Drugs Market Distribution Channel Outlook
- Hospital pharmacy
- Retail pharmacy
- Online Pharmacy
- Retinal Drugs Market Indication Outlook
- Macular degeneration
- Diabetic eye disease
- Others
Report Attribute/Metric Source: |
Details |
MARKET SIZE 2023 |
145.11(USD Million) |
MARKET SIZE 2024 |
154.25(USD Million) |
MARKET SIZE 2035 |
347.82(USD Million) |
COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR) |
7.672% (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 |
Hanmi Pharmaceutical, Hugel, Lumenis, Allergan, Santen Pharmaceutical, Daewon Pharmaceutical, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Eisai, Novartis, Kowa Company, Pfizer, Celgene, Roche, Bayer, Samsung Bioepis |
SEGMENTS COVERED |
Distribution Channel, Indication |
KEY MARKET OPPORTUNITIES |
Aging population driving demand, Increased prevalence of retinal diseases, Advancements in drug formulation, Growing interest in gene therapy, Expansion of healthcare infrastructure |
KEY MARKET DYNAMICS |
aging population, increasing prevalence of diabetes, advancements in drug formulations, rising healthcare expenditure, government support for innovation |
COUNTRIES COVERED |
South Korea |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
The South Korea Retinal Drugs Market is projected to be valued at 154.25 million USD in 2024.
By 2035, the South Korea Retinal Drugs Market is expected to reach a valuation of 347.82 million USD.
The market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 7.672% from 2025 to 2035.
In 2024, the Hospital pharmacy distribution channel is projected to hold the largest market share, valued at 63.0 million USD.
The Retail pharmacy segment is expected to be valued at 115.8 million USD by 2035.
Key players in the market include Hanmi Pharmaceutical, Allergan, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, and Roche.
The Online pharmacy segment is projected to reach a valuation of 91.42 million USD by 2035.
The Hospital pharmacy segment is anticipated to grow from 63.0 million USD in 2024 to 140.6 million USD in 2035.
Challenges may include regulatory hurdles and the entry of generic drugs affecting market dynamics.
Emerging trends include advancements in drug formulation and increased investment in research and development.