Trend Korea 2026: 2026 Korean Consumer Trend Forecast

Authors Kim Nan-do, Jeon Mi-young, Choi Ji-hye, Kwon Jeong-yoon, Han Da-hye, Lee Hye-won, Lee Su-jin, Seo Yu-hyeon, Jeon Da-hyeon, Lee Jun-young, Lee Hyang-eun, Kim Na-eun · Publisher Mirae Books · Published 2025-09-24 · ISBN 9791193638859

About the Book

In the era of great AI transformation, you become more important.
The 10 keywords for 2026 are anchored by the direct action of AI and the indirect changes in lifestyle resulting from it on one axis, and the human and essential elements reacting to it on the other. Whether it's action or reaction, AI is the most powerful driving force for trends in 2026. In other words, AI is sweeping the world like a tsunami, to the point where it's meaningless to discuss trends without it. However, a dichotomous view that simply praises AI's efficiency or warns against its side effects is dangerous. The key is to seek ways for AI not to replace or eliminate humans, but to complement and help us grow.

"What should we prepare for in this era of great AI transformation?"
The answer the authors found was humanity itself. This is the background for 'Human in the Loop' becoming the number one keyword, signifying the essential involvement of humans.
2026 marks 10 years since Lee Se-dol 9-dan played against the AI AlphaGo. Lee Se-dol's 78th move, which led to a victory against AI, is recorded as a historic move. In the age of AI, we must ask ourselves what our own unique move, our most authentic move, is.

As always, it's ultimately about people.

Top 10 Trend Products of Korea 2025 selected by <Trend Korea>

AI
ㆍ Software systems that perform intelligent judgment and generation through data learning.
ㆍ Established as an essential technology across work and daily life, spreading to various industries.
Homo Prompt
Data Intelligence

K-Beauty
ㆍ An industry and culture formed around Korean cosmetics and beauty products.
ㆍ Strengths in quality, speed, and cost-effectiveness.
Gradation K
New Demand Strategy

Self-diagnosis
Tests
ㆍ Psychological tools that classify personality, temperament, and disposition using simple questions.
ㆍ Utilized as a means of self-understanding and identity expression, such as MBTI and Enneagram-Test.
Nano Society
Labeling Game
Multi-persona

Slow-aging Diet
ㆍ A healthy eating pattern to slow down aging and prevent chronic diseases.
ㆍ Spreading not only for anti-aging but also as a philosophy of healthy habits and self-care.
Omnivore
Healthy Pleasure
Routine Keeper

Family Conflict
Programs
ㆍ Reality shows dealing with family relationships like couples and parenting in an observational format.
ㆍ Sustained demand due to empathy factors and changing social perceptions.
Aboha
Dopamine Farming
Nano Society

Baseball Team
Collaboration
ㆍ Goods produced through collaboration between professional baseball teams and brands.
ㆍ KBO craze and expansion of fan base to women and Gen Z.
Material Appeal
Spin-off Project
Acquisition Power

Running
ㆍ Running activity pursuing physical fitness, health, and mental recovery.
ㆍ Activation of communities centered on self-care, hip lifestyle, and fun running.
Healthy Pleasure
Today's Workout

Virtual Idol
ㆍ Digital-based singers and performers implemented with AI and 3D technology.
ㆍ Expanding influence on fandom and the entire entertainment industry.
Digging Momentum
Presence Tech

Decorating Items
ㆍ Items that express individuality by decorating personal belongings and devices.
ㆍ 'Byeolda-kku' craze, increase in offline and digital decorating markets.
Topping Economy
Meaning-out

Seasonal Items
ㆍ Functional and fashion items used according to specific seasons and climatic conditions.
ㆍ Due to climate change, seasonal items like parasols and rain boots are becoming daily essentials.
Climate Sensitivity
Meaning-out

Table of Contents

Foreword
Top 10 Consumer Trend Keywords for 2026

1) 2025 Korea
Top 10 Trend Products of Korea 2025 selected by <Trend Korea>

2) 2026 Trends

Notes
Appendix