South Korea’s pork industry is projected to remain steady in 2026, with production, consumption, and imports all showing relatively stable trends despite ongoing challenges from animal disease and fluctuating global markets.
Pig Crop Holds Steady
Analysts expect the 2026 pig crop to reach 19.61 million head, almost identical to 2025. Lower beginning stocks are anticipated to be offset by improvements in sow productivity, helping maintain herd levels heading into the new year.
For comparison, the 2025 pig crop is estimated to finish about 1% below 2024, reflecting the lingering impact of disease pressures and herd-health management costs.
Production Flat but Resilient
South Korea’s 2026 pork production is forecast to remain close to 2025 volumes. Consistent slaughter numbers and sustained domestic demand continue to provide stability, even as producers contend with elevated disease-management expenses and stricter biosecurity protocols.
In 2025, production is expected to reach 1.43 million tonnes, a year-over-year decline of roughly 1.7%. Output is not expected to rebound significantly until animal-health risks are more fully contained.
Imports Expected to Stay Near Current Levels
With domestic production and consumption both relatively steady, pork imports in 2026 are projected to remain around 705,000 tonnes.
Import volumes in 2025 faced downward pressure from high global pork prices and tighter international availability. If those conditions extend into 2026, Korea may see further softness in its import needs, though overall demand for imported pork remains substantial.
Pork Remains Korea’s Leading Protein
South Korea continues to be one of the world’s most dedicated pork-consuming nations. Pork is firmly entrenched as the country’s top animal protein, with consumption for 2026 projected at 2.122 million tonnes — very close to the 2025 estimate of 2.144 million tonnes.
In 2024, per-capita pork consumption reached 30 kg, nearly double that of chicken and beef. This strong preference underscores the structural importance of pork to the national diet and the ongoing strength of the sector’s demand base.
Disease Pressure Limits Growth Potential
Despite strong consumer demand, the industry’s expansion potential remains restricted. Continuing cases of African swine fever and other animal-health challenges are preventing meaningful herd growth and placing limits on productivity gains.
Ongoing investment in biosecurity, improved farm management, and disease monitoring remains critical to preventing future disruptions.
A Stable, High-Demand Market Heading into 2026
South Korea enters 2026 with one of the most resilient pork markets in Asia. Strong domestic demand, steady production, and stable import requirements are expected to define the year ahead. While disease pressure continues to cap growth, Korea’s pork sector remains well-positioned through its disciplined management and entrenched consumer preference for pork.
