South Korea Injection Molding Machines Market Size & Outlook, 2025-2033

South Korea Injection Molding Machines Market Size

The South Korea injection molding machines market size was valued at USD 414.3 million in 2024 and is expected to grow from USD 437.1 million in 2025 to USD 660.5 million by 2033, at a CAGR of 5.3% during the forecast period (2025–2033).

This growth is driven by increasing industrialization, technological advancements in molding techniques, and robust demand from key end-use industries like automotive and electronics. Furthermore, South Korea’s focus on sustainability and precision manufacturing further underscores the expanding opportunities in this market.

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South Korea Injection Molding Machines Market Growth Factor

Rising Demand from the Automotive Industry

One of the primary drivers of the South Korea injection molding machines market is the increasing demand from the automotive sector, projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period. The South Korean automotive industry, home to giants like Hyundai Motor Group and Kia Motors, is witnessing a surge in the adoption of lightweight components to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Injection molding machines, mainly those capable of producing high-precision parts, play a pivotal role in meeting this demand.

Moreover, the South Korean government’s green mobility initiatives, such as subsidies for electric vehicles (EVs) and hydrogen-powered vehicles, are boosting the need for advanced molded components. For example, Hyundai’s investment in its EV production line has increased the demand for injection molding machines tailored to manufacturing lightweight and durable parts for EVs.

Market Restraint

High Initial Investment Costs

A key restraint in the South Korea injection molding machines market is the high initial investment associated with these machines. Modern injection molding machines, especially those equipped with advanced features like AI-driven automation and energy-efficient systems, come with substantial upfront costs. This financial barrier poses a significant challenge for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in South Korea.

Additionally, the integration of Industry 4.0 technologies into injection molding processes demands further investments in training and system upgrades. This challenge is compounded by volatile raw material prices, which escalate the overall cost of production. While larger corporations can absorb these costs, smaller players in the market face difficulties in maintaining profitability amidst stiff competition.

Market Opportunity

Advancements in Digital and Automation Technologies

The integration of digital transformation and automation technologies offers significant growth opportunities in the South Korea injection molding machines market. Advanced features like real-time process monitoring, predictive maintenance, and AI-driven molding optimization are increasingly being adopted to improve production efficiency and reduce operational costs.

For instance, LS Mtron, a leading South Korean manufacturer, has introduced smart injection molding machines with IoT and AI capabilities. These machines enhance productivity while reducing waste, aligning with South Korea’s environmental sustainability goals. Furthermore, the rising focus on smart factories under the government’s “Manufacturing Innovation 3.0” initiative is accelerating the adoption of automated injection molding technologies, opening avenues for market expansion.

Country Insights

The market is characterized by key industrial hubs and advanced manufacturing ecosystems across South Korea. Cities such as Seoul, Busan, Incheon, Daegu, and Gwangju are driving regional growth.

Seoul is a major center for automotive and electronics manufacturing as the capital and an economic powerhouse. Companies like Hyundai and Samsung have significant operations here, fueling the demand for high-precision injection molding machines. Government-backed initiatives to support smart manufacturing further enhance the market’s growth in the region.

Busan, a leading port city, is a hub for the shipbuilding and automotive industries. The presence of advanced manufacturing facilities and a skilled workforce makes Busan a key player in the injection molding machines market. The city’s strategic location also facilitates efficient supply chain operations.

Incheon has become a focal point for producing precision-molded components and is home to many electronics manufacturers. Companies in the region are increasingly adopting advanced injection molding machines to meet the high standards required by the electronics industry.

Daegu, known for its machinery and textile industries, is witnessing a shift towards advanced manufacturing technologies. Injection molding machines are widely used in Daegu’s industrial sector to produce components for automotive and consumer goods applications.

Gwangju’s emphasis on green manufacturing and innovation has increased the adoption of energy-efficient injection molding machines. The city’s focus on sustainability aligns with the broader trends driving the market’s growth in South Korea.

Machine Type Insights

Hydraulic dominates the machine type segment and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.9% over the forecast period. These machines are favored for their cost-effectiveness and ability to handle high-pressure molding, making them suitable for various applications, including automotive and consumer goods. The continued development of energy-efficient hydraulic systems, such as hybrid models, further drives demand.

Clamping Force Insights

Below 200 tons leads the clamping force segment and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.8% during the forecast period. These machines cater primarily to small and medium-sized manufacturers producing lightweight components, particularly in the electronics and packaging sectors. Their compact size and lower energy consumption make them a preferred choice for precision applications.

Solution Insights

New sales dominate the solution segment and are expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.6% over the forecast period. The South Korean market’s emphasis on adopting advanced technologies and replacing outdated machinery has propelled the demand for newly manufactured injection molding machines. Key players' introduction of customizable solutions has also contributed to this growth.

Pressure Insights

High Pressure leads the pressure segment and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.6% during the forecast period. High-pressure injection molding machines are driven by their ability to produce complex and detailed components accurately. These machines are particularly popular in the automotive and aerospace industries, where precision and durability are critical.

End-Use Insights

Automotive dominates the end-use segment and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.5% over the forecast period. With South Korea’s strong automotive manufacturing base and increasing focus on EVs, the demand for high-performance injection molding machines capable of producing lightweight, durable parts is set to surge.

List of key players in South Korea Injection Molding Machines Market

1. ARBURG
2. ENGEL
3. Haitian International
4. Husky Injection Molding Systems
5. KraussMaffei Group
6. Milacron Holdings Corp.
7. Nissei Plastic Industrial Co., Ltd.
8. Sumitomo Heavy Industries
9. The Japan Steel Works
10. Ube Industries, Ltd.
11. BMB S.P.A.
12. Nigon
13. Shibaura Machine Co. Ltd

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Analyst’s Perspective

As per our analyst, the South Korea injection molding machines market is poised for rapid expansion in the coming years. This growth is primarily driven by the rising demand for precision-engineered components in key industries such as automotive and electronics. Technological advancements, particularly in automation and digitalization, are transforming the injection molding landscape, making processes more efficient and sustainable.

While challenges such as high initial costs persist, the benefits of adopting advanced technologies far outweigh the barriers. South Korea’s strong industrial base and government initiatives like Manufacturing Innovation 3.0 position the market for sustained growth. The increasing focus on sustainability and smart manufacturing further underscores the immense potential of the South Korea injection molding machines market.