The South Korea clothes market was valued at USD 30.65 Billion in 2025. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.42% during the forecast period of 2026-2035 to reach a value of USD 42.90 Billion by 2035. This growth trajectory is underpinned by ongoing retail expansion, increased investment in manufacturing infrastructure, and the sustained popularity of Korean pop culture. Recent developments highlight the sector’s momentum. Notably, in June 2023, Youngone Corporation commenced construction of 11 new production facilities within the Evertop Textile & Apparel Complex, signaling continued capacity expansion and confidence in long-term demand.
The market is expanding rapidly, driven by the global influence of K-culture, technological innovation, and a strong governmental focus on sustainability. The continued international popularity of K-pop and K-dramas significantly shapes fashion trends, with brands leveraging celebrity partnerships and digital platforms to accelerate product cycles and enhance market responsiveness.
A key motivator of the South Korea clothes market growth is the government’s Textile and Fashion Industry Competitiveness Strategy, which promotes innovation and sustainable practices across the sector. The initiative includes an investment of USD 22.18 million in fiber-to-fiber recycling, plant-based vegan leather, and biodegradable materials. Additionally, over 200 SMEs will receive support for waste heat recovery systems, while new carbon emissions standards and eco-design guidelines will foster more sustainable production processes.
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Historical Period
Forecast Period
According to 2024 data, South Korea is the world’s 9th largest wellness market. As a result, there is a significant demand for outdoor sports clothing. In 2022, as part of the wellness sector, the physical activity segment reached a value of USD 29.7 billion, accounting for 11.0% growth during the 2020-2022 period.
The idea of circular economy is gaining popularity in the clothing market, highlighting the importance of reducing waste, reusing materials, and recycling. As a result, at the local level, smaller brands such as Pado of Seoul and Eclatto have partnered with local artisans to produce products from discarded materials.
The rising popularity of e-commerce is influencing the South Korea clothes market. In 2024, the South Korean e-commerce market is expected to grow by 10.2%, totaling a value of USD 125.8 billion. Key multi-brand global online retailers include Amazon.com and eBay, and domestic retailers include Coupang.com and Naver.com.
Compound Annual Growth Rate
3.42%
Value in USD Billion
2026-2035
*this image is indicative*
| South Korea Clothes Market Report Summary | Description | Value |
| Base Year | USD Billion | 2025 |
| Historical Period | USD Billion | 2019-2025 |
| Forecast Period | USD Billion | 2026-2035 |
| Market Size 2025 | USD Billion | 30.65 |
| Market Size 2035 | USD Billion | 42.90 |
| CAGR 2019-2025 | Percentage | 1.40% |
| CAGR 2026-2035 | Percentage | 3.42% |
| CAGR 2026-2035 - Market by Distribution Channels | Online | 7.06% |
| CAGR 2026-2035 - Market by End Use | Women | 3.91% |
The global influence of K-culture, particularly K-pop, K-dramas, and Korean celebrities, continues to significantly shape South Korea clothes market trends. In 2024, Tommy Hilfiger’s collaboration with BLACKPINK’s Jisoo for its Fall collection demonstrated the strategic value of Korean celebrity partnerships in engaging a global, trend-focused audience. The campaign, amplified across digital platforms, enhanced brand visibility and reinforced the global appeal of Korean fashion aesthetics. This synergy has fueled demand for streetwear and casual apparel, contributing to South Korea’s high per capita clothing consumption.
South Korea’s fashion market is rapidly evolving, driven by domestic innovation and global brand expansion. Emerging labels like 87MM and Hyein Seo are gaining international recognition for their streetwear aesthetics, with celebrities such as Rihanna showcasing Korean designs. Simultaneously, luxury brands including Dior, Burberry, and Moncler are expanding their children’s lines in Korean department stores, capitalizing on the “ten pocket” phenomenon, where extended families invest in premium kids’ apparel, boosting growth in the South Korea clothes market. Korean fashion is also gaining traction in Western markets, supported by increased media visibility and high-profile collaborations, reflecting its growing influence in the global fashion landscape.
Significant investments in fashion e-commerce sector are accelerating digital transformation, boosting the South Korea clothes market expansion. In December 2024, Alibaba invested approximately USD 56 million in Ably Corporation, a leading online platform with over 8.7 million monthly active users, specializing in men’s and women’s apparel. Ably’s rapid growth, marked by around USD 740 million in transactions, and its focus on emerging and small brands have positioned it as a key domestic player. Alibaba’s investment is expected to support Ably’s global expansion, enhance technological capabilities, and elevate the international profile of Korean fashion, underscoring the importance of strategic partnerships and innovation.
South Korea clothes market dynamics is being transformed by significant investment in physical retail from both global and local brands. In October 2024, Burberry opened a flagship store in Seoul, featuring its latest collections and immersive experiences tailored to Korean consumers. This increase in flagship and concept store openings enhances consumer access to exclusive products, intensifies competition, and reinforces South Korea’s position as a premier fashion retail hub in Asia.
Sustainability is emerging as a key motivator of the South Korea clothes market growth, with both international and domestic brands advancing eco-friendly initiatives to address growing consumer demand for responsible apparel. In 2025, BBC Studios partnered with Cowell Fashion to introduce an eco-conscious outdoor clothing line in South Korea, inspired by BBC Earth. The collection includes windbreakers, hoodies, shorts, and caps, all produced using Global Recycled Standard-certified materials and sustainable manufacturing practices. Available through nine retail locations and online channels, the range aims to enhance accessibility and appeal to environmentally conscious, younger consumers, reinforcing the market’s shift toward sustainable fashion.
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The EMR’s report titled “South Korea Clothes Market Report and Forecast 2026-2035” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:
Market Breakup by Type
Key Insight: Outer clothing demand in the country is fueled by high consumer spending on fashion, the pervasive influence of K-pop and Korean media, and a strong demand for stylish, functional, and seasonal apparel. The rapid rise of e-commerce and omni-channel retail has made trendy outerwear more accessible, while athleisure and outdoor activity trends continue to boost South Korea clothes market revenue. Meanwhile, the inner clothing category is experiencing accelerated growth due to a heightened consumer focus on comfort, wellness, and self-care.
Market Breakup by Fabric Type
Key Insight: Knit fabrics remain dominant in the South Korea clothes market due to their comfort, stretchability, and suitability for casual wear, sportswear, and inner clothing. Their popularity is further reinforced by the rise of athleisure and home-centric lifestyles, as well as continuous innovations in fabric blends and functional properties. Woven fabrics, known for their durability and structure, are preferred for formal wear, outerwear, and fashion-forward apparel, benefiting from South Korea’s strong fashion culture and demand for high-quality, tailored garments. While non-woven fabrics hold a smaller share in clothing, their demand is rapidly growing, driven by increased applications in medical, hygiene, and technical textiles.
Market Breakup by Application
Key Insight: Casual wear’s dominance in the South Korea clothes industry is due to the influence of K-pop, Korean dramas, and a cultural shift toward relaxed dress codes, particularly with the rise of remote work and social media. Sportswear is experiencing rapid growth, driven by increasing health consciousness, outdoor activities, and the mainstreaming of fitness culture, with brands innovating in both style and functionality, while safety wear is also growing due to industrial growth, stricter workplace regulations, and rising demand for protective clothing in sectors like manufacturing and emergency services.
Market Breakup by End Use
Key Insight: The women’s category largely drives the South Korea clothes market value, due to high fashion consciousness, frequent wardrobe updates, and strong influence from K-pop idols and celebrities. Women’s apparel brands are quick to adopt global trends, offer diverse styles, and leverage digital marketing, resulting in consistently high demand. The men’s clothing category is experiencing steady growth, capturing a growing share of the market as evolving fashion attitudes, increased spending power, and the rise of men’s grooming, and lifestyle trends encourage more frequent apparel purchases.
Market Breakup by Distribution Channels
Key Insight: Retail stores have traditionally been the dominant distribution channel in South Korea, supported by a dense network of shopping malls, department stores, and specialty boutiques that provide consumers with the ability to experience products firsthand and receive personalized service. However, the South Korea clothes market is rapidly evolving as online stores gain significant traction, fueled by high internet penetration, widespread smartphone adoption, and the convenience of digital shopping.
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By type, outer clothing owing to strong consumer interest in fashion
Outer clothing leads the South Korea clothes market revenue, driven by strong consumer interest in fashion, the influence of K-pop and Korean dramas, and frequent wardrobe updates. The category, which includes casual wear, outerwear, and sportswear, benefits from a well-established retail infrastructure and a culture that emphasizes visible, trend-driven style. Seasonal changes and the popularity of layering further boost sales, providing additional growth opportunities. Both domestic and international brands aggressively compete by offering a wide range of styles and innovative designs.
Inner clothing is fueled by rising demand for comfort and wellness-oriented products. Innovations in fabric technology, such as moisture-wicking and skin-friendly materials, are attracting consumers seeking both functionality and luxury. The shift toward home-centric lifestyles and increased health awareness have made underwear, loungewear, and basics more important in daily life, accelerating demand in the South Korea clothes market. Online and home shopping channels have expanded accessibility, while domestic brands aggressively market new collections.
| CAGR 2026-2035 - Market by | End Use |
| Women | 3.91% |
| Men | XX% |
| Kids | XX% |
By fabric type, knit fabrics dominate the market due to their versatility, comfort, and adaptability
Knit fabrics largely boost the South Korea clothes market scope due to their versatility, comfort, and adaptability across various clothing categories. Popular in casual wear, sportswear, and innerwear, knit fabrics are favored for their stretchability and breathability, aligning with consumer preferences for comfort and functionality. The rise of athleisure and home-centric lifestyles has further popularized knitwear, making it a staple in wardrobes. Ongoing innovations in fabric blends and finishes continue to enhance the appeal of knits, ensuring their leading position in the market.
Growth of the non-woven fabrics category in the South Korea clothes market is propelled by rising demand in medical, hygiene, and technical textile applications. Continued health and safety awareness, along with innovations in sustainable and biodegradable non-wovens, are expanding their use beyond clothing into personal care and industrial sectors. As manufacturers invest in new production technologies and diversify their product offerings, non-woven fabrics are expected to see sustained, rapid growth, making them an increasingly important part of the South Korean textile landscape.
By application, casual wear dominates the market with a cultural shift toward relaxed dress codes and versatile, comfortable clothing
Casual wear represents the largest application category, reflecting a cultural shift toward relaxed dress codes and versatile, comfortable clothing. The influence of K-pop, Korean dramas, and social media trends has made streetwear, athleisure, and everyday apparel highly desirable. The rise of remote work and changing lifestyle preferences have further fueled demand for casual clothing. Both domestic and international brands compete in this space, frequently launching new collections to capture consumer attention. As a result, casual wear consistently commands the highest South Korea clothes market share and remains a central focus for fashion retailers and designers.
Sportswear is the fastest growing application, driven by increasing health consciousness and participation in fitness and outdoor activities. Korean consumers are embracing active lifestyles, leading to greater demand for functional, stylish, and technologically advanced sports apparel. Brands are responding with innovative designs, moisture-wicking fabrics, and versatile athleisure collections that blur the line between workout gear and everyday wear.
By end use, women represent the dominant consumer base
Women’s clothing is the largest end use category in the South Korea clothes market, driven by high fashion engagement, frequent wardrobe updates, and the influence of celebrities and social media. Korean women are quick to adopt new trends and seek diverse styles, from casual to formal and everything in between. Brands cater to this demand with frequent product launches and targeted marketing campaigns.
Kids’ clothing demand is supported by rising parental spending on quality and branded apparel. Korean parents prioritize both style and functionality, seeking comfortable, durable, and often character-themed clothing for their children. This category is also benefiting from an increase in dual-income households and a growing focus on premium and eco-friendly kids’ wear.
| CAGR 2026-2035 - Market by | Distribution Channels |
| Retail Stores | XX% |
| Online | 7.06% |
By distribution channel, retail stores dominate the market with a dense network of shopping malls, department stores, and specialty boutiques
Retail stores remain the largest distribution channel driving the South Korea clothes market revenue, supported by a dense network of shopping malls, department stores, and specialty boutiques. Korean consumers value the ability to physically inspect products, try on clothing, and enjoy personalized service, especially for luxury and premium purchases. Retail stores also serve as important brand showcases, offering curated experiences and exclusive collections.
Online stores represent the fastest growing distribution channel, driven by high internet penetration, smartphone adoption, and the convenience of digital shopping. E-commerce platforms offer a wide selection, competitive pricing, and fast delivery, appealing to technology oriented Korean consumers. Features like virtual fitting rooms and personalized recommendations have enhanced the digital experience.
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The market is marked by intense competition and a high level of fragmentation. Key factors driving competition among South Korea clothes market players include quality, innovation, and significant investments in marketing. Successfully sourcing and distributing products, along with creating appealing merchandising and presentations, both in-store and on digital platforms, plays a crucial role in attracting customers.
Furthermore, South Korea clothes companies are focusing on product diversification, digital transformation, and sustainability initiatives. Both domestic brands and international players are investing in retail expansion, e-commerce, and celebrity collaborations to capture market share. Market growth is propelled by rising disposable incomes, K-culture influence, and increased adoption of sustainable fashion practices. The dynamic competitive environment fosters rapid adaptation to evolving consumer preferences, supporting steady sector expansion through 2025 and beyond.
Established in 1987, 87MM Co., Ltd. is a South Korean fashion brand established by Park Ji Woon and Kim Won Joong. The company operates under the brand name 87MM_SEOUL, known for its clean-cut and versatile apparel that reflects diverse environments and experiences.
Founded in 1949, UNIQLO Korea, officially known as FRL Korea Co., Ltd., is a joint venture between Fast Retailing and Lotte Shopping. UNIQLO Korea imports and sells clothing under the "UNIQLO" and "GU" brands within South Korea. Globally, UNIQLO is renowned for its innovative products, such as HEATTECH, which provides warmth without bulk, and AIRism, offering breathable comfort.
Acmé de la vie (ADLV), established in 2017, is a South Korean streetwear brand that has gained significant popularity among young adults. ADLV's collaborations with popular K-pop artists and influencers have further enhanced its appeal within the Korean region, boosting the growth of the South Korea clothes market. The brand's focus on affordability and quality has contributed to its widespread acceptance among fashion-conscious consumers in the country.
Founded in 2008, Beyond Closet Co., Ltd. is a South Korean fashion brand established by designer Ko Tae Yong. The brand's name reflects the concept of exploring personal identity through clothing, viewing the closet as a space that reveals one's personality, emotions, and lifestyle. Beyond Closet draws inspiration from American classic and preppy styles, offering fresh reinterpretations each season through witty graphics and vibrant colors.
*Please note that this is only a partial list; the complete list of key players is available in the full report. Additionally, the list of key players can be customized to better suit your needs.*
Another key player in the market includes Five Space Co.,Ltd., among others.
Explore the latest trends shaping the South Korea clothes market 2026-2035 with our in-depth report. Gain strategic insights, future forecasts, and key market developments that can help you stay competitive. Download a free sample report or contact our team for customized consultation on South Korea clothes market trends 2026.
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*While we strive to always give you current and accurate information, the numbers depicted on the website are indicative and may differ from the actual numbers in the main report. At Expert Market Research, we aim to bring you the latest insights and trends in the market. Using our analyses and forecasts, stakeholders can understand the market dynamics, navigate challenges, and capitalize on opportunities to make data-driven strategic decisions.*
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The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.42% between 2026 and 2035.
Key strategies driving the market include heavy investment in digital retail channels, collaborations between K-fashion brands and global designers, sustainability-focused collections, and the use of AI-driven personalization to enhance customer engagement.
High quality and safety standards and celebrity collaborations are the key trends in the market.
The dominant type of clothes in the industry are inner clothing and outer clothing.
The leading distribution channels in the market are retail stores and online stores.
The key players in the market include 87MM Inc., FRL Korea Co., LTD., Acme de la vie Co., Ltd., Beyond Closet Co., Ltd., and Five Space Co., Ltd among others.
In 2025, the South Korea clothes market reached an approximate value of USD 30.65 Billion.
The South Korea clothes market is estimated to witness healthy growth in the forecast period of 2026-2035 to reach a value of around USD 42.90 Billion by 2035.
The key challenges are intense price competition from global fast-fashion giants, rising production costs, supply chain disruptions, and the growing pressure to balance sustainability commitments with profitability.
Explore our key highlights of the report and gain a concise overview of key findings, trends, and actionable insights that will empower your strategic decisions.
| REPORT FEATURES | DETAILS |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Historical Period | 2019-2025 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2035 |
| Scope of the Report |
Historical and Forecast Trends, Industry Drivers and Constraints, Historical and Forecast Market Analysis by Segment:
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| Breakup by Type |
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| Breakup by Fabric Type |
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| Breakup by Application |
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| Breakup by End Use |
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| Breakup by Distribution Channels |
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| Market Dynamics |
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| Trade Data Analysis |
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| Competitive Landscape |
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| Companies Covered |
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