A Golden Opportunity in Korea’s Digital Marketplace:

South Korea’s e-commerce landscape is thriving like never before, making it a hotspot for global brands and local entrepreneurs alike. With a $230 billion market size in 2024, projected to reach $336 billion by 2027, this hyper-connected nation offers unparalleled potential for businesses willing to tap into its advanced digital ecosystem. From lightning-fast logistics to a tech-savvy consumer base, Korea’s e-commerce boom is driven by innovation, cultural preferences, and a robust infrastructure. Today we explore the key platforms dominating the market in 2025, why they matter, and how you can leverage them to succeed.

Why South Korea’s E-Commerce Market Is a Game-Changer:

South Korea’s e-commerce success stems from its status as one of the world’s most digitally advanced nations. With 95% smartphone ownership, consumers are always online, often using second devices for entertainment and shopping. The market’s growth is fueled by AI-driven personalization, live streaming commerce, and alternative payment methods. However, its unique digital ecosystem and consumer behaviors pose challenges for foreign entrants, making localization and platform selection critical.

Key drivers include:

• High-Speed Infrastructure: Full 5G deployment since 2019 and government initiatives like the National AI Strategy enhance the shopping experience.
• Consumer Trust: Local brands and tailored experiences resonate more than international ones, with platforms like Naver leading the charge.
• Mobile Dominance: Mobile shopping accounts for 75% of transactions, with USD 134.3 billion spent via phones in 2022 alone.

For businesses, this means adapting to local platforms is essential to unlock Korea’s lucrative market.

Key Platforms to Watch in 2025:

1. Coupang: The “Amazon of Korea”

• Overview: Launched in 2010, Coupang has grown into South Korea’s largest e-commerce platform, boasting over 23.4 million users in 2025 and USD 30.27 billion in revenue in 2024. Its Rocket Delivery service, offering same-day or next-day delivery with a 99.3% success rate, sets it apart.
• Why It Matters: The Rocket Wow membership provides free shipping, returns, and early morning food delivery, driving customer loyalty. Its 75% reusable packaging appeals to eco-conscious buyers.
• For Sellers: Ideal for everyday products (electronics, fashion, groceries) and international brands seeking rapid market entry. Coupang’s AI recommendations and logistics make it a powerhouse for B2C sales.

We recommend partnering with local experts to navigate its complex seller requirements and optimize for Rocket Delivery eligibility.

2. Naver Shopping: The Local Search Giant