Samsung, Hyundai, SK Group, POSCO, LG Electronics, Kia, SK Innovation, Korea Electric Power, SK Hynix, and LG Chem are the top 10 biggest companies in South Korea based on revenue in 2025. These companies operate in various industries such as technology, automotive, conglomerate, steel, energy, and chemicals, contributing significantly to the country’s economy.
1. Samsung
Industry: technology
Revenue (2024: Q1; 2025: Q2, Q3, Q4): $219800 Millions
Stock symbol: 005930.KS
Samsung is a multinational conglomerate headquartered in Seoul, South Korea. It was founded in 1938. With operations in over 80 countries, Samsung is a global leader in various industries including electronics, shipbuilding, construction, and more. Their main activities revolve around the production and distribution of consumer electronics, mobile devices, home appliances, and semiconductors. Samsung is known for its popular brands such as Galaxy smartphones, QLED TVs, and innovative products like the Samsung Gear VR. In 2025, Samsung continues to lead in semiconductor innovation and has expanded its AI and automotive technology divisions.
2. Hyundai
Industry: automotive
Revenue (2024: Q1; 2025: Q2, Q3, Q4): $117400 Millions
Stock symbol: HYMTF
Hyundai, founded in 1967, is headquartered in Seoul, South Korea. It operates in over 200 countries worldwide, making it a global automotive company. Hyundai’s main activities revolve around the manufacturing and distribution of automobiles, including sedans, SUVs, and electric vehicles. They also provide various services such as vehicle maintenance and financing options. Hyundai is known for its popular brands like Sonata, Tucson, and Kona. In 2025, Hyundai has accelerated its transition to electric vehicles and autonomous driving technologies.
3. SK Group
Industry: conglomerate
Revenue (2024: Q1; 2025: Q2, Q3, Q4): $107800 Millions
Stock symbol: 034730.KS
SK Group is headquartered in Seoul, South Korea, and was founded in 1953. It operates in numerous countries worldwide, with a presence in more than 40 countries. The company is primarily engaged in various industries such as energy, chemicals, telecommunications, and construction. SK Group offers a wide range of products and services including oil refining, petrochemicals, mobile telecommunications, and renewable energy. Some of its notable brands include SK Energy, SK Telecom, and SK Innovation. In 2025, SK Group has expanded its investments in green hydrogen and battery materials for electric vehicles.
4. POSCO
Industry: steel
Revenue (2024: Q1; 2025: Q2, Q3, Q4): $64300 Millions
Stock symbol: PKX
POSCO, founded in 1968, is headquartered in Pohang, South Korea. It operates in numerous countries worldwide, with a presence in over 50 countries. The company is primarily engaged in the production and distribution of steel products, including hot-rolled and cold-rolled steel sheets, plates, wire rods, and electrical steel sheets. POSCO also offers various services such as construction, engineering, and trading. It is known for its reputable brands like POSCO Steel and POSCO E&C. POSCO is focusing on eco-friendly steel production and expanding lithium and battery materials in 2025.
5. LG Electronics
Industry: technology
Revenue (2024: Q1; 2025: Q2, Q3, Q4): $61500 Millions
Stock symbol: LGLG.F
LG Electronics is headquartered in Seoul, South Korea and was founded in 1958. It operates in numerous countries worldwide, with a presence in over 100 countries. The company is primarily engaged in the manufacturing and distribution of electronic products, including home appliances, mobile devices, and televisions. LG Electronics is known for its innovative and high-quality products, and it has established several popular brands such as LG OLED TVs and LG ThinQ appliances. In 2025, LG Electronics is rapidly growing its smart home and EV component businesses.
6. Kia
Industry: automotive
Revenue (2024: Q1; 2025: Q2, Q3, Q4): $67500 Millions
Stock symbol: 000270.KS
Kia, headquartered in Seoul, South Korea, was founded in 1944. It operates in over 190 countries worldwide. The company’s main activities include manufacturing and selling automobiles, commercial vehicles, and electric vehicles. Kia offers a wide range of products and services, including sedans, SUVs, and electric cars. Some of its popular brands include the Kia Optima, Sportage, and Soul. In 2025, Kia has launched several new EV models and is investing in mobility services.
7. SK Innovation
Industry: energy
Revenue (2024: Q1; 2025: Q2, Q3, Q4): $48200 Millions
Stock symbol: 096775.KS
SK Innovation is headquartered in Seoul, South Korea and was founded in 1962. It operates in multiple countries, with a presence in over 40 countries worldwide. The company is primarily engaged in the production and distribution of petroleum and petrochemical products. They also offer various services in the energy sector, including exploration, production, and refining. SK Innovation is known for its leading brands such as SK Energy and SK Lubricants. In 2025, SK Innovation continues to expand its battery production for electric vehicles globally.
8. Korea Electric Power
Industry: energy
Revenue (2024: Q1; 2025: Q2, Q3, Q4): $44100 Millions
Stock symbol: KEP
Korea Electric Power Home Page
Korea Electric Power, headquartered in Seoul, South Korea, was founded in 1961. It operates in multiple countries, with a presence in over 20 countries worldwide. The company’s main activities revolve around the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity. It offers a wide range of products and services related to power generation, including nuclear, thermal, and renewable energy sources. Korea Electric Power is also known for its brand, KEPCO, which is recognized for its reliable and sustainable energy solutions. In 2025, KEPCO is investing heavily in renewable energy and smart grid infrastructure.
9. SK Hynix
Industry: technology
Revenue (2024: Q1; 2025: Q2, Q3, Q4): $42600 Millions
Stock symbol: 000660.KS
SK Hynix is a multinational company with its headquarters in Icheon, South Korea. It was founded in 1983. Operating in numerous countries, SK Hynix has a global presence with operations in over 20 countries. The company is primarily engaged in the production and distribution of semiconductor memory products, including dynamic random-access memory (DRAM) and NAND flash memory. SK Hynix is known for its high-quality memory solutions and is recognized as one of the leading brands in the semiconductor industry. In 2025, SK Hynix is ramping up production of advanced memory chips for AI and data centers.
10. LG Chem
Industry: chemicals
Revenue (2024: Q1; 2025: Q2, Q3, Q4): $39100 Millions
Stock symbol: 051910.KS
LG Chem is headquartered in Seoul, South Korea, and was founded in 1947. It operates in numerous countries worldwide, with a presence in over 30 countries. The company is primarily engaged in the production and distribution of chemicals, petrochemicals, and advanced materials. LG Chem offers a wide range of products and services, including batteries, electronic materials, pharmaceuticals, and energy solutions. It is also known for its popular brands such as LG Chem Power and LG Chem Life Sciences. In 2025, LG Chem is one of the world’s largest suppliers of EV batteries and is expanding its global battery manufacturing footprint.
The combined revenue of S. Korea’s top 10 companies amounts to $3.1 T
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