Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment in South Korea Trends and Forecast
The future of the secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in South Korea looks promising with opportunities in the municipal and industrial markets. The global secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market is expected to grow with a CAGR of 4.5% from 2025 to 2031. The secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in South Korea is also forecasted to witness strong growth over the forecast period. The major drivers for this market are the growing need for wastewater treatment facilities, stricter laws, and technical integration in the form of novel secondary treatment techniques, such as integrated fixed film activated sludge (IFAS) and moving bed biofilm reactors (MBBR).
• Lucintel forecasts that, within the equipment category, the activated sludge segment is expected to witness the highest growth over the forecast period due to its ability to remove harmful bacteria, thereby lowering health risks for people and the surrounding environment that may come into contact with the material.
• Within the application category, the municipal segment will remain the largest due to rapid urbanization, most notably in emerging economies, coupled with fast housing and infrastructural development.
Emerging Trends in the Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market in South Korea
South Korea’s secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market is rapidly advancing, driven by technological innovation, stringent environmental regulations, and growing urban and industrial demands. As the country grapples with limited freshwater resources and rising environmental concerns, it is embracing modern, sustainable solutions to improve wastewater treatment efficiency and performance. The market is seeing the integration of smart systems, energy-efficient processes, compact modular technologies, and water reuse initiatives. These developments are reshaping the treatment landscape and positioning South Korea as a regional leader in sustainable and advanced water management infrastructure.
• Integration of Smart Technologies in Treatment Systems: South Korea is adopting smart technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, AI-based monitoring, and automated control systems to modernize its secondary treatment infrastructure. These technologies enable real-time monitoring of water quality, predictive maintenance of equipment, and optimization of treatment processes. By increasing operational efficiency and reducing manual errors, smart systems ensure compliance with environmental standards while minimizing energy use and operational costs. As digital transformation accelerates across the water sector, smart treatment plants are becoming more common throughout urban and industrial areas in South Korea.
• Expansion of Water Reuse and Recycling Applications: To address growing water stress and reduce reliance on freshwater sources, South Korea is expanding the reuse of treated wastewater for various non-potable applications. These include industrial cooling, irrigation, toilet flushing, and even indirect potable reuse in select regions. Advanced treatment systems are being installed to ensure the quality and safety of reclaimed water. Regulatory frameworks and government incentives are also supporting the adoption of water reuse practices. This shift is driving demand for equipment that can produce high-quality effluent suitable for a broad range of applications.
• Adoption of Energy-Efficient and Low-Carbon Treatment Technologies: Energy consumption is a key focus in South Korea’s wastewater sector, and the country is increasingly investing in technologies that reduce carbon emissions and operational costs. Techniques like anaerobic digestion, optimized aeration systems, and waste-to-energy conversion are being incorporated into treatment processes. The integration of renewable energy sources and energy recovery mechanisms further enhances system efficiency. These innovations are not only lowering the environmental footprint of treatment operations but also aligning with the country’s broader carbon neutrality goals and commitment to sustainable development.
• Deployment of Compact and Modular Systems in Urban and Remote Areas: As space becomes more limited in urban areas and wastewater treatment needs grow in remote regions, South Korea is deploying compact and modular treatment systems. These systems are pre-fabricated, easily scalable, and quick to install, making them ideal for decentralized applications such as industrial parks, small towns, and temporary settlements. Their flexibility allows for phased expansion and integration with existing infrastructure. The use of modular systems is enabling South Korea to enhance wastewater treatment capacity without the need for large-scale facility expansion.
• Stronger Regulatory Support and Government-Led Innovation Initiatives: The South Korean government is strengthening regulatory standards and investing in innovation to modernize its wastewater treatment framework. New policies are driving higher compliance requirements, especially concerning effluent quality and environmental impact. Government-led initiatives are encouraging public-private partnerships, research and development, and pilot projects for emerging technologies. These efforts are increasing collaboration across the industry and accelerating the commercialization of cutting-edge equipment. This policy-driven environment is fostering innovation and setting a strong foundation for sustainable market growth.
The secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in South Korea is evolving rapidly due to a combination of technological, regulatory, and environmental factors. Trends such as smart system integration, water reuse expansion, energy-efficient technologies, modular solutions, and stronger regulatory frameworks are redefining market dynamics. These developments are improving operational performance, reducing environmental impact, and increasing flexibility in treatment approaches. By embracing these trends, South Korea is enhancing its water infrastructure resilience and setting a benchmark for advanced and sustainable wastewater management across the Asia-Pacific region.
Recent Developments in the Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market in South Korea
South Korea’s secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market is undergoing substantial transformation, shaped by rapid urbanization, rising environmental concerns, and a national push for sustainability. As the country faces mounting water quality challenges and limited freshwater resources, authorities and industries are turning to advanced technologies and infrastructure upgrades. Recent developments reflect the growing focus on smart systems, energy efficiency, decentralized treatment, and regulatory reforms. These innovations are strengthening the country’s wastewater management capacity while aligning with global environmental standards and the government’s long-term goals for green growth.
• Implementation of Smart Treatment Facilities: South Korea is increasingly investing in smart wastewater treatment plants equipped with real-time monitoring systems, AI-powered controls, and predictive maintenance tools. These technologies enhance process efficiency by automating key operations, reducing energy consumption, and improving treatment accuracy. Utilities and municipalities are adopting digital platforms to track water quality, forecast equipment failure, and ensure regulatory compliance. This development is streamlining operations, cutting costs, and increasing transparency across treatment networks. As a result, smart systems are helping transform traditional facilities into intelligent infrastructure capable of meeting the evolving needs of a modern, eco-conscious society.
• Expansion of Water Reuse Infrastructure: To address persistent water scarcity, South Korea is significantly expanding its water reuse infrastructure. Treated wastewater is now being repurposed for industrial processes, agricultural irrigation, urban landscaping, and groundwater recharge. Municipalities are upgrading existing treatment plants with advanced filtration and disinfection technologies to produce high-quality reclaimed water. This shift not only reduces dependency on freshwater sources but also supports the government’s circular economy targets. The development of robust reuse systems is helping meet the water demands of high-density urban areas while ensuring sustainable and responsible resource utilization.
• Adoption of Modular and Decentralized Systems: South Korea is promoting modular and decentralized wastewater treatment systems to enhance flexibility and reach underserved areas. These systems are compact, pre-fabricated, and easily scalable, allowing rapid deployment in industrial parks, remote villages, and temporary construction zones. The government is supporting their adoption as part of its smart city and regional development initiatives. By reducing the burden on centralized infrastructure, these decentralized solutions offer tailored treatment capacity close to the source, increasing system resilience and improving wastewater management in diverse geographic and demographic contexts.
• Deployment of Low-Energy and Green Technologies: In response to rising energy costs and carbon reduction targets, South Korea is integrating low-energy solutions such as anaerobic digesters, high-efficiency blowers, and solar-powered equipment into its treatment systems. These green technologies are designed to minimize emissions and optimize energy use, particularly in secondary treatment processes. Some facilities are now recovering biogas to generate electricity, contributing to the country’s energy transition. This trend not only enhances operational sustainability but also helps wastewater utilities align with South Korea’s national carbon neutrality agenda and environmental policy goals.
• Regulatory Strengthening and Innovation Funding: The South Korean government is introducing stricter environmental discharge standards and providing financial incentives for technology upgrades. New policies emphasize effluent quality, nutrient removal, and climate resilience in wastewater operations. Public-private partnerships and R&D funding programs are supporting pilot projects and the commercialization of advanced treatment equipment. Regulatory clarity is encouraging utilities and industries to invest in modern systems while promoting innovation in the domestic market. These developments are accelerating industry modernization and ensuring that the wastewater sector remains aligned with national sustainability and public health objectives.
The secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in South Korea is advancing through developments in smart technologies, water reuse systems, decentralized solutions, green technologies, and stronger regulatory frameworks. These changes are not only addressing existing water management challenges but also positioning the country as a pioneer in sustainable infrastructure. As these developments gain momentum, South Korea is building a more resilient, efficient, and environmentally responsible wastewater treatment sector equipped to meet future demands.
Strategic Growth Opportunities for Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market in South Korea
The secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in South Korea is evolving rapidly due to the country’s focus on sustainability, technological advancements, and stringent environmental regulations. With growing urbanization and increasing industrial demands, there are numerous opportunities for strategic growth in wastewater treatment across various applications. Innovations in smart systems, water reuse, and energy-efficient solutions present key growth opportunities that align with the government’s green growth initiatives and the country‘s water conservation goals. These opportunities are reshaping the market and fostering a more resilient and sustainable water infrastructure.
• Water Reuse and Recycling: The push for water reuse is creating significant growth opportunities in South Korea’s wastewater treatment sector. By recycling treated wastewater for non-potable applications such as industrial use, irrigation, and urban landscaping, South Korea is reducing its reliance on freshwater sources. The expansion of advanced treatment technologies that enable water recycling, such as reverse osmosis and membrane bioreactors (MBRs), is expected to drive demand for more efficient equipment. This shift supports sustainable water management practices while addressing water scarcity and improving the resilience of the nation’s water systems.
• Energy-Efficient Treatment Solutions: Energy efficiency is a major focus in South Korea’s wastewater treatment sector, creating opportunities for growth in low-energy technologies. Solutions like anaerobic digestion, high-efficiency aeration, and energy recovery from waste are being incorporated into secondary treatment systems. These technologies not only reduce the environmental footprint of wastewater treatment plants but also cut operating costs by minimizing energy consumption. As South Korea aims to achieve carbon neutrality, the demand for energy-efficient treatment solutions is expected to increase, offering significant opportunities for companies providing innovative, low-energy equipment.
• Modular and Decentralized Treatment Systems: Modular and decentralized wastewater treatment systems are gaining traction in South Korea, especially in remote and industrial areas. These systems are compact, scalable, and flexible, making them ideal for regions with limited space or in need of quick deployment. By decentralizing treatment processes, these systems can relieve pressure on centralized infrastructure, improve system resilience, and reduce transportation costs for treated water. With urbanization and industrialization driving demand for flexible solutions, modular systems offer a strategic opportunity to expand the secondary wastewater treatment market in South Korea.
• Smart Wastewater Treatment Technologies: The integration of smart technologies in wastewater treatment systems offers significant growth potential in South Korea. Real-time monitoring, automated process controls, and data analytics can optimize treatment processes, improve operational efficiency, and reduce maintenance costs. South Korea’s commitment to digital transformation across industries presents a unique opportunity for wastewater equipment providers to introduce AI-based predictive maintenance, IoT-enabled sensors, and remote monitoring systems. These smart solutions enable better management of resources and help treatment plants adapt to changing conditions while meeting stringent regulatory standards.
• Government Incentives for Sustainable Practices: The South Korean government is actively supporting the adoption of sustainable practices in wastewater management, creating growth opportunities through policy-driven incentives. Financial incentives, tax breaks, and funding for innovation and research are being used to encourage investment in advanced wastewater treatment technologies. These incentives not only facilitate the upgrade of aging infrastructure but also promote the adoption of cutting-edge solutions such as zero-liquid discharge (ZLD) systems and renewable energy integration. By aligning with government initiatives, companies can capitalize on the country’s commitment to green growth and environmental responsibility.
Strategic growth opportunities in the secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in South Korea are being driven by innovations in water reuse, energy-efficient solutions, modular systems, smart technologies, and government incentives. These opportunities are shaping the market by addressing critical water management challenges and supporting sustainable development goals. As South Korea continues to prioritize environmental sustainability and technological advancements, the wastewater treatment sector is poised for growth, creating a more resilient and eco-friendly water infrastructure for the future.
Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market in South Korea Driver and Challenges
The secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in South Korea is shaped by various technological, economic, and regulatory factors. Drivers such as technological advancements, growing environmental awareness, and government support for sustainability are propelling the market forward. However, challenges related to infrastructure costs, complex regulatory requirements, and limited natural resources are hindering growth. A comprehensive understanding of these drivers and challenges is essential for navigating the market and seizing opportunities for innovation, efficiency, and compliance in wastewater management across the country.
The factors responsible for driving the secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in South Korea include:
• Technological Advancements: Rapid technological innovations, such as the integration of smart sensors, artificial intelligence (AI), and real-time monitoring systems, are one of the primary drivers of growth in the secondary water and wastewater treatment market. These technologies help improve treatment processes, reduce energy consumption, and enhance operational efficiency. The use of advanced filtration methods like membrane bioreactors (MBRs) and reverse osmosis (RO) allows for the production of higher-quality effluent, which is crucial for water reuse. As technology continues to advance, it opens new opportunities for more sustainable and cost-effective treatment solutions, further driving the market‘s expansion.
• Rising Environmental Concerns: Environmental issues such as water scarcity, pollution, and the need for resource conservation are significant drivers in the wastewater treatment sector. South Korea is increasingly prioritizing sustainable practices, and the demand for efficient treatment equipment is rising in response to these concerns. As industrial and urban wastewater discharge regulations become stricter, there is a growing need for advanced equipment that can meet these new standards. Moreover, the shift toward the circular economy model, emphasizing water reuse and recycling, further stimulates demand for innovative wastewater treatment technologies that can ensure environmental sustainability.
• Government Support and Regulatory Pressure: South Korea‘s government is actively driving the adoption of sustainable and advanced wastewater treatment technologies through policies, subsidies, and grants. Strict environmental regulations on effluent quality and the need to comply with global sustainability standards are pushing industries to invest in state-of-the-art treatment systems. These regulations create a favorable environment for the growth of the secondary water and wastewater treatment equipment market. Additionally, government-led initiatives supporting research and development (R&D) in water management technologies are promoting innovation and boosting market opportunities for new equipment.
• Water Scarcity and Population Growth: With increasing urbanization and population growth, the pressure on South Korea’s water resources has grown substantially. As demand for freshwater intensifies, the need for effective wastewater treatment and recycling becomes even more critical. Water scarcity is driving the focus on water reuse technologies, which create demand for secondary treatment systems capable of producing high-quality effluent. The rising population in urban centers further emphasizes the need for robust and scalable wastewater treatment solutions that can cater to both growing demands and environmental standards.
• Cost Efficiency and Energy Recovery: The increasing emphasis on energy efficiency and cost-effective solutions is shaping the demand for secondary water and wastewater treatment systems in South Korea. With rising operational costs, including energy consumption, municipalities and industries are focusing on technologies that optimize energy use. Energy recovery systems, such as anaerobic digestion and waste-to-energy solutions, are becoming increasingly popular. These solutions not only help reduce operating costs but also support the country’s energy transition goals, making them highly attractive in the market.
Challenges in the secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in South Korea are:
• High Initial Investment Costs: One of the major challenges in the South Korean secondary wastewater treatment market is the high initial investment required for advanced treatment technologies. While these systems offer long-term operational savings, the upfront capital expenditure can be prohibitive for smaller municipalities and industrial facilities. This can delay the adoption of innovative solutions, particularly in regions with constrained budgets. Companies need to find cost-effective ways to lower the barrier to entry while ensuring the efficiency and sustainability of their systems.
• Complex Regulatory Compliance: Navigating South Korea’s complex regulatory framework is a significant challenge for companies in the secondary wastewater treatment equipment market. Stricter environmental standards and regulations regarding effluent discharge quality require constant updates and improvements to treatment systems. Meeting these evolving standards demands continuous investment in technology upgrades, making compliance an ongoing challenge for wastewater treatment plants. Additionally, delays in regulatory approvals can slow the implementation of new projects, affecting market growth.
• Infrastructure Limitations: Despite advancements in technology, South Korea’s wastewater treatment infrastructure faces challenges such as aging systems and capacity limitations. Many existing plants are outdated and cannot meet the growing demands of urbanization and industrialization. Upgrading these facilities requires substantial investment in both technology and infrastructure. The slow pace of infrastructure development, especially in rural and industrial areas, presents a barrier to the widespread adoption of new wastewater treatment technologies.
The secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in South Korea is driven by technological advancements, environmental concerns, government support, and the rising demand for efficient water management solutions. However, challenges such as high initial costs, complex regulatory compliance, and aging infrastructure could slow market growth. Despite these challenges, the market is evolving towards more sustainable, energy-efficient, and innovative wastewater treatment systems. With continued government support and technological development, the industry is poised for long-term growth, addressing South Korea’s pressing water management issues.
List of Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market in South Korea Companies
Companies in the market compete on the basis of product quality offered. Major players in this market focus on expanding their manufacturing facilities, R&D investments, infrastructural development, and leverage integration opportunities across the value chain. Through these strategies, secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment companies cater to increasing demand, ensure competitive effectiveness, develop innovative products & technologies, reduce production costs, and expand their customer base. Some of the secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment companies profiled in this report include:
• Company 1
• Company 2
• Company 3
• Company 4
• Company 5
Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market in South Korea by Segment
The study includes a forecast for the secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in South Korea by equipment and application.
Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market in South Korea by Equipment [Analysis by Value from 2019 to 2031]:
• Activated Sludge
• Sludge Treatment
Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market in South Korea by Application [Analysis by Value from 2019 to 2031]:
• Municipal
• Industrial
• Others
Features of the Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market in South Korea
Market Size Estimates: Secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment in South Korea market size estimation in terms of value ($B).
Trend and Forecast Analysis: Market trends and forecasts by various segments.
Segmentation Analysis: Secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment in South Korea market size by equipment and application in terms of value ($B).
Growth Opportunities: Analysis of growth opportunities in different equipment and application for the secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment in South Korea.
Strategic Analysis: This includes M&A, new product development, and competitive landscape of the secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment in South Korea.
Analysis of competitive intensity of the industry based on Porter’s Five Forces model.
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FAQ
Q1. What are the major drivers influencing the growth of the secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in South Korea?
Answer: The major drivers for this market are growing need for wastewater treatment facilities and stricter laws and technical integration in the form of the creation of novel secondary treatment techniques, such as integrated fixed film activated sludge (IFAS) and moving bed biofilm reactors (MBBR).
Q2. What are the major segments for secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in South Korea?
Answer: The future of the secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in South Korea looks promising with opportunities in the municipal and industrial markets.
Q3. Which secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market segment in South Korea will be the largest in future?
Answer: Lucintel forecasts that activated sludge segment is expected to witness the highest growth over the forecast period due to removal of harmful bacteria to lower the health risks for people and surroundings that may come into contact with the material.
Q4. Do we receive customization in this report?
Answer: Yes, Lucintel provides 10% customization without any additional cost.
This report answers following 10 key questions:
Q.1. What are some of the most promising, high-growth opportunities for the secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in South Korea by equipment (activated sludge and sludge treatment), and application (municipal, industrial, and others)?
Q.2. Which segments will grow at a faster pace and why?
Q.3. What are the key factors affecting market dynamics? What are the key challenges and business risks in this market?
Q.4. What are the business risks and competitive threats in this market?
Q.5. What are the emerging trends in this market and the reasons behind them?
Q.6. What are some of the changing demands of customers in the market?
Q.7. What are the new developments in the market? Which companies are leading these developments?
Q.8. Who are the major players in this market? What strategic initiatives are key players pursuing for business growth?
Q.9. What are some of the competing products in this market and how big of a threat do they pose for loss of market share by material or product substitution?
Q.10. What M&A activity has occurred in the last 5 years and what has its impact been on the industry?
For any questions related to Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market in South Korea, Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market in South Korea Size, Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market in South Korea Growth, Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market in South Korea Analysis, Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market in South Korea Report, Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market in South Korea Share, Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market in South Korea Trends, Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market in South Korea Forecast, Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment Companies, write Lucintel analyst at email: helpdesk@lucintel.com. We will be glad to get back to you soon.