You are viewing: South Korea Propylene Oxide Market analysis
Part of: Propylene Oxide Market (Global)

The South Korea Propylene Oxide Market was valued at $500.8 Million in 2025 and projected to reach to $627.1 Million by 2030, representing a compound annual growth rate of 4.6%. South Korea's propylene oxide market is poised for steady expansion through 2030, driven by sustained demand from the polyurethane foam and specialty chemicals sectors.

South Korea Propylene Oxide Market (2025-2030) : Size and Share
logo-mobile
CAGR of
cagr-Chart
USD Million
MARKET SNAPSHOT
Market Size in USD 26.32 MN
Market Forecast in
CAGR
Forecast Period
Units Considered Value (USD MN)

South Korea Propylene Oxide Market Trends and Insights

  • South Korea's chemical manufacturing sector, driven by robust demand from polyurethane foam, glycol ethers, and specialty chemical applications, continues to support steady market expansion.
  • The country's advanced industrial base and export-oriented economy position South Korea as a key regional player in propylene oxide production and consumption. During the 2025–2030 forecast period, South Korea's propylene oxide market will benefit from increasing applications in automotive, construction, and consumer goods sectors.
  • South Korea's commitment to sustainable manufacturing and chemical innovation is expected to drive adoption of propylene oxide in high-performance polyols and eco-friendly formulations.
  • Regional supply chain integration within Asia Pacific and South Korea's strategic partnerships with global chemical producers will further support market growth and competitiveness..

Key Market Statistics

  • CAGR (2025-2030) 4.6% CAGR
  • Market Size, 2025 ~USD 500.8 Million
  • Forecast, 2030 ~USD 627.1 Million
  • Country South Korea

South Korea Propylene Oxide Market Overview

Market Size & Growth :

South Korea's propylene oxide market is valued at USD 500.8 million in 2025, with projected growth to USD 627.1 million by 2030, reflecting a steady CAGR of 4.6%.

Key End-Use Applications :

Polyurethane foam production, glycol ethers manufacturing, and specialty chemicals drive demand in South Korea's propylene oxide market, supported by the country's advanced chemical processing capabilities.

Industrial Strength :

South Korea's robust chemical manufacturing sector and established petrochemical infrastructure position the country as a significant propylene oxide consumer in the Asia-Pacific region.

Market Drivers :

Growing demand from automotive, construction, and consumer goods industries in South Korea fuels propylene oxide consumption for foam insulation, coatings, and adhesive applications.

South Korea Propylene Oxide Market Dynamics

  • The country's advanced manufacturing base and export-oriented chemical industry support consistent market growth at 4.6% CAGR.
  • Increasing applications in automotive lightweighting, energy-efficient building materials, and high-performance coatings will continue to bolster market demand. The South Korean market benefits from strong domestic consumption and regional export opportunities across Asia-Pacific.
  • Investment in green chemistry and sustainable propylene oxide production methods aligns with the country's environmental regulations and corporate sustainability goals.
  • Strategic partnerships between local chemical manufacturers and international suppliers will further strengthen market competitiveness and innovation capabilities..

Related Ecosystem

Bulk Chemicals And Inorganics

Top Technologies
  • Corrosion Inhibitors
  • Glycol Ethers
  • Acetic Acid
  • Acetone
  • Ammonium Nitrate
Top Companies
  • Basf se
  • DOW CHEMICAL COMPANY
  • Exxon Mobil Corporation
  • AZELIS HOLDINGS SA
  • Sinopec limited

    Key Takeaways

    • South Korea's propylene oxide market is valued at USD 500.8 million in 2025 and will reach USD 627.1 million by 2030.
    • South Korea's market will expand at a 4.6% CAGR, driven by polyurethane foam and specialty chemical demand.
    • South Korea's advanced manufacturing capabilities and export focus position it as a regional supply hub for propylene oxide.
    • South Korea's emphasis on sustainable chemistry and high-performance applications will accelerate market growth through 2030.

    Propylene Oxide Market Report Scope

    Report Metric Details
    Base Year 2025
    Fastest Growing Segment POLYETHER POLYOLS (Application)
    Forecast Period 2025–2030
    Growth Rate CAGR of 4.9% from 2025 to 2030
    Largest Segment POLYETHER POLYOLS (Application)
    Market Size Base Year (Billions) ~USD 14.86 (2025)
    Revenue Forecast (Billions) ~USD 18.88 (2030)
    Segments Covered Application, End-Use Industry, Production Process

    South Korea Propylene Oxide Market Report Segmentation

    3 segment dimensions are covered across the global market.

    By Application

    • Glycol Ether Applications
    • Glycol Ethers
    • Other Applications
    • Polyether Polyols
    • Propylene Glycol

    By End-Use Industry

    • Automotive
    • Building & Construction
    • Chemical & Pharmaceutical
    • Electronics
    • Other End-Use Industries
    • Packaging
    • Textile & Furnishing

    By Production Process

    • Chlorohydrin Process
    • Cumene-Based Process
    • Hydrogen Peroxide Process
    • Styrene Monomer Process
    • Tba Co-Product Process

    Target Audience

    • Chemical Manufacturers & Producers : South Korean and international propylene oxide producers need market-specific data to optimize production capacity, pricing strategies, and competitive positioning in this 4.6% CAGR growth market.
    • Polyurethane & Foam Manufacturers : South Korean foam and polyurethane producers require detailed propylene oxide supply forecasts and cost trends to secure raw materials and plan production expansion through 2030.
    • Investment & Private Equity Firms : Investors evaluating opportunities in South Korea's chemical sector need comprehensive market analysis, growth drivers, and competitive intelligence to assess acquisition and expansion targets.
    • Supply Chain & Procurement Managers : Corporate procurement teams in South Korea's automotive, construction, and consumer goods industries need market intelligence to negotiate supplier contracts and manage propylene oxide sourcing.
    • Market Research & Strategy Consultants : Business consultants advising South Korean chemical companies require detailed market data, trend analysis, and forecasts to develop competitive strategies and market entry plans.

    Key Companies in the South Korea Propylene Oxide Market

    CompanyHQOwnershipStrongest segments
    MOL GROUPHungaryPublic CompanyRefined fuels (gasoline, diesel, heating oil, bunker, JET A-1, LPG/autogas),Petrochemicals and black products (bitumen, HFO, petrolcoke, residues),Retail convenience, mobility solutions, and digital services,
    DOWUnited StatesPublic CompanyPackaging & Specialty Plastics,Industrial Intermediates & Infrastructure,Performance Materials & Coatings,
    SHELLUnited KingdomPublic CompanyIntegrated Gas (including LNG and GTL),Upstream (oil, gas, and NGLs),Marketing (mobility, lubricants, commercial fuels, EV charging),
    BASFGermanyPublic CompanyChemicals,Materials,Industrial Solutions,
    AGC INC.United StatesPublic CompanyHigh-horsepower and row-crop tractors,Utility and compact tractors,Combines and harvesting equipment,
    REPSOLSpainPublic CompanyIndustrial (refining, trading, wholesale fuels, hydrogen and synthetic fuels),Customer (mobility/gas stations, power and gas retail, lubricants, LPG, biofuels),Upstream (oil and gas exploration and production, low-carbon geological solutions),
    TOKUYAMA CORPORATIONJapanPublic CompanyChemicals Products (chlor-alkali, PVC, solvents, basic inorganics),Cement and Building Materials,Electronics Advanced Materials (poly-Si, silica, AIN, BN, high-purity chemicals),
    SUMITOMO CHEMICAL CO., LTD.JapanPublic CompanyEssential & Green Materials,Agro & Life Solutions,Sumitomo Pharma,
    SKCNew ZealandPublic CompanyLand-based Gaming (casinos),Hotels, Conventions, and Attractions,Food & Beverage,
    EVONIKGermanyPublic CompanyAdvanced Technologies,Custom Solutions,Infrastructure,
    SABICSaudi ArabiaPublic CompanyCommodity petrochemicals (olefins, methanol, aromatics, glycols, MTBE, CO2),Polyolefins (PE and PP, including compounds),Specialties and engineering thermoplastics,
    BALCHEM CORP.United StatesPublic CompanyHuman Nutrition & Health,Animal Nutrition & Health,Specialty Products,
    INDORAMA VENTURES PUBLIC COMPANY LIMITEDThailandPublic CompanyCombined PET (PET value chain and specialty PET-related chemicals, including recycling),Fibers (polyester, rayon, nylon, polypropylene, composites, worsted wool),Indovinya (specialty chemical solutions and integrated surfactants),
    PCC SEGermanyPrivate CompanyPolyols and polyurethane systems,Surfactants and derivatives,Chlorine, monochloroacetic acid, and chlorine derivatives,

    MOL GROUP

    MOL GROUP is a Hungarian public company founded in 1991 with 24,744 employees, operating as an integrated oil and gas company.

    DOW

    DOW is a United States-based public company established in 1897 with 34,600 employees, operating in the chemical and materials science industry.

    SHELL

    SHELL is a United Kingdom-based public company founded in 1897 with 84,000 employees, operating as a major integrated energy and petrochemicals company.

    BASF

    BASF is a German public company established in 1865 with 106,428 employees, operating as a leading global chemical and materials manufacturer.

    AGC INC.

    AGC INC. is a United States-based public company founded in 1990 with 22,000 employees, operating in the chemical and specialty materials industry.

    REPSOL

    REPSOL is a Spanish public company founded in 1927 with 24,881 employees, operating as an integrated oil and gas company.

    TOKUYAMA CORPORATION

    TOKUYAMA CORPORATION is a Japanese public company established in 1918 with 6,390 employees, operating in the chemical and materials manufacturing sector.

    SUMITOMO CHEMICAL CO., LTD.

    SUMITOMO CHEMICAL CO., LTD. is a Japanese public company founded in 1913 with 27,491 employees, operating as a diversified chemical manufacturer.

    SKC

    SKC is a New Zealand-based public company founded in 1994 with 4,500 employees, operating in the chemical and materials industry.

    EVONIK

    EVONIK is a German public company established in 1847 with 30,643 employees, operating as a specialty chemicals and advanced materials manufacturer.

    SABIC

    SABIC is a Saudi Arabian public company founded in 1976 with 35,000 employees, operating as a global petrochemicals and chemicals manufacturer.

    BALCHEM CORP.

    BALCHEM CORP. is a United States-based public company established in 1967 with 1,368 employees, operating in specialty ingredients and chemical products.

    INDORAMA VENTURES PUBLIC COMPANY LIMITED

    INDORAMA VENTURES PUBLIC COMPANY LIMITED is a Thai public company founded in 1994 with 22,027 employees, operating as a petrochemicals and specialty chemicals manufacturer.

    PCC SE

    PCC SE is a German private company founded in 1993 with 3,115 employees, operating in the chemical and specialty chemicals sector.

    Reasons to Buy this Report

    • Country-Specific Market Sizing : Obtain precise market valuation for South Korea (USD 500.8M in 2025) with detailed 5-year forecasts to support accurate business planning and investment decisions in this key Asian market.
    • Competitive Landscape Intelligence : Understand South Korea's unique competitive dynamics, local manufacturer strategies, and market consolidation trends specific to the propylene oxide industry in this advanced economy.
    • End-Use Application Breakdown : Access detailed segmentation of South Korean demand across polyurethane foam, glycol ethers, and specialty chemicals to identify high-growth application segments and customer opportunities.
    • Regulatory & Sustainability Insights : Gain insights into South Korea's chemical regulations, environmental standards, and green chemistry initiatives that shape propylene oxide production and market opportunities.
    • Regional Trade & Supply Chain Data : Analyze South Korea's import/export patterns, supply chain relationships, and regional distribution networks to optimize sourcing and market entry strategies in Asia-Pacific.

    Frequently asked questions

    What is the current size of South Korea's propylene oxide market?

    South Korea's propylene oxide market is estimated at USD 500.8 million in 2025.

    What is the projected market size for South Korea by 2030?

    South Korea's propylene oxide market is forecast to reach USD 627.1 million by 2030.

    What is the CAGR for South Korea's propylene oxide market?

    South Korea's propylene oxide market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.6% from 2025 to 2030.

    Which industries drive propylene oxide demand in South Korea?

    South Korea's propylene oxide demand is primarily driven by polyurethane foam manufacturing, glycol ether production, automotive, construction, and specialty chemical applications.

    How does South Korea's market compare to the global propylene oxide market?

    South Korea's propylene oxide market grows at 4.6% CAGR, slightly below the global CAGR of 4.9%, reflecting regional market maturity and competitive dynamics.

    RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

    The research methodology used to estimate the current size of the propylene oxide market consisted of four major activities. Extensive secondary research was performed to acquire detailed information about the market, peer markets, and parent markets. These findings, assumptions, and metrics were verified through primary research with experts from both the demand and supply sides of the propylene oxide value chain. Both top-down and bottom-up approaches were used to estimate the total market size. The estimation of market sizes for various segments and subsegments in the market was finalized using full market segmentation and data triangulation techniques.

    Secondary Research

    The research methodology for estimating and forecasting the propylene oxide market begins with gathering data on key vendors’ revenues by doing secondary research. The secondary research process involves consulting a range of secondary sources, including Hoover’s, Bloomberg Businessweek, Factiva, the World Bank, and industry-specific journals. These secondary sources encompass annual reports, press releases, investor presentations, white papers, certified publications, articles from recognized authors, regulatory notifications, trade directories, and databases. Also, vendor offerings are taken into consideration to inform market segmentation.

    Primary Research

    The propylene oxide market comprises several stakeholders, including raw material suppliers, processors, end-product manufacturers, and regulatory organizations, throughout the supply chain. The demand side of this market is characterized by the development of various industries, including mobility, power, chemicals, industrial, and grid injection, among others. The supply side is characterized by advancements in technology and a wide range of diverse applications. Various primary sources from both the supply and demand sides of the market were interviewed to obtain qualitative and quantitative information. The following is the breakdown of the primary respondents:

    Propylene Oxide Market Size, and Share

    To know about the assumptions considered for the study, download the pdf brochure

    Market Size Estimation

    The top-down and bottom-up approaches have been used to estimate and validate the total size of the propylene oxide market. These approaches have also been used extensively to estimate the size of various dependent market subsegments. The research methodology used to estimate the market size included the following.

    The following segments provide details about the overall market size estimation process employed in this study:

    • Extensive primary and secondary research was done to identify the key players.
    • The value chain and market size in terms of value of the propylene oxide market were determined through primary and secondary research.
    • All percentage shares, splits, and breakdowns were collected through secondary sources and verified through primary sources.
    • All possible parameters that affect the market were covered in this research study and are viewed in extensive detail, verified through primary research, and analyzed to obtain the final quantitative and qualitative data.
    • The study of reports, reviews, and newsletters of top market players, along with extensive interviews for opinions from key leaders, such as CEOs, directors, and marketing executives, is included in this research.

     Propylene oxide Market Size: Bottom-Up Approach

    Propylene Oxide Market Size, and Bottom-Up Approach

    Data Triangulation

    After estimating the overall market size using the above estimation process, the market was split into various segments and subsegments. Data triangulation and market segmentation techniques, along with the market engineering process, were employed to obtain precise market analysis data for each segment and its subsegments.

    Objectives of the Report

    • To define, describe, and forecast the size of the propylene oxide market, in terms of volume and value; based on application, production process, end–use industry, and region
    • To provide detailed information regarding the key factors, such as drivers, restraints, opportunities, and industry–specific challenges, influencing the growth of the propylene oxide market
    • To strategically analyze micromarkets with respect to individual growth trends, prospects, and their contribution to the total market
    • To analyze opportunities in the market for stakeholders and provide a competitive landscape of the market leaders
    • To project the size of the market and its submarkets, in terms of value and volume, with respect to five main regions (along with their respective key countries), namely, North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa
    • To provide ecosystem analysis, case study analysis, value chain, patent analysis, technology analysis, pricing analysis, Porter’s five forces analysis, key stakeholders and buying criteria, investment and funding scenario, trade analysis, impact of AI/Gen AI and 2025 US tariff, key conferences and events, regulatory bodies, government agencies, and regulations pertaining to the market under study
    • To strategically profile the key players and comprehensively analyze their core competencies
    • To analyze competitive developments such as mergers & acquisitions, product launches, and research & development in the propylene oxide market
    • To provide the macroeconomic outlook for all regions considered under the study

    Available Customizations

    With the given market data, MarketsandMarkets offers customizations according to the client-specific needs.

    The following customization options are available for the report:

    • Additional country-level analysis of the propylene oxide market
    • Profiling of additional market players (up to five)

     

    Product Analysis

    •  Product matrix, which provides a detailed comparison of each company’s product portfolio.

    Get the Full Propylene Oxide Market Report

    Full forecast, segment splits, and company analysis for all Propylene Oxide Market.

    Need a Tailored Report?

    Customize this report to your needs

    Get 10% FREE Customization

    Customize This Report
    Fact checked
    DMCA.com Protection Status