Electric vehicles gained strong momentum in South Korea throughout 2025, driving accelerated adoption among consumers previously more reliant on traditional vehicles. The market reached a significant milestone as electric vehicles claimed a greater share of new registrations than ever before, reflecting changing consumer behaviors and a competitive automotive landscape. Brands have been vying for position, but one model in particular caught the attention of both industry insiders and the wider public. Surging demand for specific models, alongside shifting domestic and import market dynamics, has underscored the evolving taste and priorities of Korean drivers.
South Korea has seen steady yet moderate growth in electric vehicle sales in recent years, but 2025’s figures surpassed many earlier industry projections. Reports published in previous years documented challenges such as limited domestic supply, slower consumer uptake, and competitive friction between international manufacturers and local automakers. However, with notable improvements to battery performance, broader consumer incentives, and the entry of aggressively positioned imports like the Tesla Model Y, the local market now displays stronger momentum among both established and newer brands. The increase in imported electric vehicle market share over 2025 marks a sharp contrast to earlier trends which favored domestic brands. This progression reflects a larger global trend of intensifying competition and growing consumer openness to international offerings.
How did electric vehicles perform in South Korea in 2025?
The Korea Automobile and Mobility Industry Association (KAMA) reported a significant increase in electric vehicle registrations, with a total of 220,177 units recorded in 2025, marking a year-on-year growth of more than 50 percent. As a result, electric vehicle penetration reached 13.1 percent for the first time, surpassing the important double-digit threshold in the country.
Which brands and models shaped the market the most?
Among several strong performers, Tesla’s Model Y took a leading role, accounting for 50,397 sales and capturing over a quarter of the country’s electric passenger vehicle market. Kia, Tesla, and Hyundai formed a closely matched trio at the top, representing nearly 80 percent of total electric vehicle sales for the year. Responding to the demand, Tesla’s Model Y, produced at Gigafactory Shanghai, saw year-on-year growth of over 169 percent, highlighting growing interest in all-electric crossovers.
Did imported EVs gain popularity among Korean consumers?
Imported electric vehicles captured a 42.8 percent market share in 2025, up significantly from previous years and driven in large part by the success of the Tesla Model Y. Meanwhile, the share of domestically produced EVs declined from 75 percent in 2022 to 57.2 percent last year. China-made electric vehicles, notably those from Tesla, saw their sales more than double, demonstrating increasing acceptance among South Korean buyers.
“Koreans are often a step ahead in appreciating new technology,”
remarked Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, responding to observations of the Korean market’s interest in advanced vehicle features such as Full Self-Driving. KAMA described 2025’s environment as a “three-way competitive market,” noting the tight race among the country’s leading brands.
“Korea’s battery electric vehicle registrations surged 50.1% YoY to 220,177 units in 2025 – the highest annual total on record,”
according to the Korea Automobile and Mobility Industry Association.
South Korea’s leap in electric vehicle penetration underscores broader shifts in global automotive trends, revealing increasing interest in imported models and more competitive supply chains. Buyers seeking to enter the electric vehicle market in South Korea should consider market share movements, model-specific popularity, and after-sales support when making purchasing decisions. The experience of 2025 highlights the importance of adaptability among both manufacturers and consumers, as domestic brands face heightened competition from international entrants. Those considering a new vehicle purchase may see greater choice and improved options as a result of these industry shifts—making it a timely period for prospective buyers to compare offers and technological advancements among all leading brands.
