South Korea's Pork Market Forecast for 2026

Pig harvests in 2026 are projected to remain virtually unchanged at 19.61 million heads, as increased sow production offsets the low initial herd level. Pig harvests in 2025 are projected to be 1% lower than in 2024 .

Pork production is expected to remain at 2025 levels, given similar slaughter rates. While strong domestic demand has supported domestic producers, animal diseases limit growth potential. In 2025, production is expected to reach 1,430,000 tons, a 1.7% decrease from the previous year.

Pork imports in 2026 are expected to remain at 705,000 tons, driven by forecasts of stable domestic pork production and consumption. High global pork prices and supply shortages are putting downward pressure on Korean pork imports in 2025, so if these trends continue in 2026, a slight decline is possible.

Pork consumption in 2026 is expected to reach 2,122,000 tons, comparable to the 2025 forecast (2,144,000 tons). For decades, pork has been the primary source of animal protein for Korean consumers. In 2024, the population is estimated to consume 30 kg of pork per person. This figure is almost double that of chicken (15.2 kg) or beef (14.9 kg). This is 6.8% higher than the average consumption of 28.1 kg over the past five years (2019–2023), demonstrating continued growth in consumer demand for pork.