South Korea Aqueous Hydrofluoric Acid Market Outlook and Forecast 2024-2030

In Business Insights
June 16, 2025

South Korea Aqueous Hydrofluoric Acid market size was valued at US$ 78.4 million in 2024 and is projected to reach US$ 103.6 million by 2030, at a CAGR of 4.8% during the forecast period 2024-2030.

Aqueous hydrofluoric acid (HF) plays a critical role in South Korea’s advanced manufacturing sectors, particularly in semiconductor fabrication where it’s used for wafer cleaning and etching. While the market shows steady growth, manufacturers must navigate strict safety protocols and evolving environmental regulations that impact production costs and handling procedures.

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Market Overview & Regional Analysis

South Korea’s aqueous HF market benefits from the country’s dominant position in global semiconductor production. The presence of major chip manufacturers creates consistent demand for high-purity grades, with the semiconductor segment accounting for approximately 62% of total consumption. Regional concentration around Gyeonggi-do province reflects proximity to key industrial clusters.

While domestic production meets most demand, South Korea maintains strategic imports of ultra-high-purity grades from Japan. Recent trade policies aim to strengthen local sourcing alternatives through partnerships between chemical producers and semiconductor firms. The market shows particular strength in UP and UPSS grade hydrofluoric acid, which are essential for advanced chip manufacturing processes.

Key Market Drivers and Opportunities

The market’s growth stems largely from South Korea’s leadership in memory chip production and display technologies. Government initiatives like the K-Semiconductor Strategy actively support domestic supply chains, creating favorable conditions for HF suppliers. Emerging applications in solar panel manufacturing and specialty glass treatment present additional growth avenues.

Opportunities exist in developing closed-loop recycling systems for spent HF solutions, which align with corporate sustainability goals. Some manufacturers are investing in neutralization technologies and byproduct recovery processes that could redefine industry standards. The push toward smaller semiconductor nodes (below 10nm) also drives innovation in ultra-purification techniques.

Challenges & Restraints

The aqueous HF market faces significant constraints from safety regulations that govern transportation, storage, and worker exposure limits. Recent industrial accidents have prompted stricter oversight, increasing compliance costs. Alternative etching chemicals like dry fluorine compounds pose a long-term threat, particularly for less specialized applications.

Supply chain vulnerabilities became apparent during trade disputes affecting fluorite imports. While South Korea has diversified its raw material sources, price volatility remains a concern. The capital-intensive nature of HF production also creates high barriers for new market entrants, potentially limiting competition.

Market Segmentation by Type

  • EL (Electronic Grade)
  • UP (Ultra Pure)
  • UPS (Ultra Pure Special)
  • UPSS (Ultra Pure Super Special)

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Market Segmentation by Application

  • Semiconductor Manufacturing
  • LCD Panel Production
  • Solar Cell Fabrication
  • Metal Surface Treatment
  • Glass Etching
  • Other Industrial Uses

Market Segmentation and Key Players

  • Solvay Korea Co., Ltd.
  • Foosung Co., Ltd.
  • Hyundai Chemical Co., Ltd.
  • Soulbrain Co., Ltd.
  • Hanwha Solutions/Chemical Corporation
  • Dongyue Group
  • Dongwoo Fine-Chem Co., Ltd.
  • TCC Corporation
  • Shiny Chemical Industrial Company
  • Tanfac Industries Ltd.

Report Scope

This report presents a comprehensive analysis of the South Korean market for Aqueous Hydrofluoric Acid, covering the period from 2024 to 2030. It includes detailed insights into the current market status and outlook, with specific focus on:

  • Sales, sales volume, and revenue forecasts

  • Detailed segmentation by type and application

In addition, the report offers in-depth profiles of key industry players, including:

  • Company profiles

  • Product specifications

  • Production capacity and sales

  • Revenue, pricing, gross margins

  • Sales performance

The competitive landscape analysis highlights strategic partnerships between chemical suppliers and semiconductor manufacturers, along with technology developments in purification and recycling processes.

As part of this research, we surveyed Aqueous Hydrofluoric Acid producers and industry experts across South Korea. The investigation covered multiple aspects including:

  • Supply chain dynamics and raw material sourcing

  • Technology roadmaps for ultra-purification

  • Regulatory impacts on production and handling

  • Emerging applications and substitution risks

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