South Korea Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Market

South Korea Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Market Size and Share:

The South Korea magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) market size was valued at USD 154 Million in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 249 Million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.50% from 2025-2033. The market is primarily driven by rapid AI integration for improved diagnostics, heightened demand for high-field MRI systems like 3T and 7T for complex diagnoses, and the ongoing expansion of outpatient imaging centers, offering faster, more accessible services while easing hospital pressures.

The market in South Korea is witnessing consistent rise, propelled by an aging population, growing healthcare awareness, and advancements in imaging technology. As reported by the Ministry of Interior and Safety, 20% of South Korea's population is now aged 65 and older, contributing to higher demand for diagnostic imaging. The senior population, totaling 10.24 million, often faces chronic conditions like cancer, neurological disorders, and cardiovascular diseases, which require precise imaging for accurate diagnosis. MRI systems, with their non-invasive nature and high-resolution capabilities, are increasingly preferred in hospitals and healthcare centers. Additionally, increasing government investments in healthcare infrastructure and medical technologies are fostering a conducive environment for the South Korea magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) market growth, benefiting both domestic and international manufacturers.

In addition to this, continual technological advancements, such as high-field MRI systems, portable MRI machines, and AI integration, are significantly expanding the market. Notably, on March 29, 2024, AIRS Medical Inc. received FDA 510(k) clearance for its AI-powered MRI software, SwiftMR, which improves image quality and reduces scan times using deep learning. This software has been implemented across several Korean institutions, enhancing patient comfort and diagnostic efficiency. Similarly, the growing adoption of 3T and 7T MRI systems, offering superior resolution for complex neurological and musculoskeletal exams is propelling the South Korea magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) market share. Moreover, the rise of outpatient imaging centers is helping reduce wait times and improve accessibility. As healthcare providers prioritize accuracy, the demand for advanced MRI technology is expected to continue growing.

South Korea Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Market Trends:

Rapid Integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI technology is significantly transforming the South Korea Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) market outlook by improving diagnostic accuracy and reducing scan times. AI-powered tools enhance MRI images, even under suboptimal conditions, by utilizing deep learning algorithms to optimize image quality. This innovation not only improves patient comfort by reducing scan durations but also enhances operational efficiency by automating parts of the analysis process, lightening the workload for radiologists. As on November 25, 2024, The artificial intelligence (AI) brain disease solution business Neurophet said that Neurophet AQUA, its brain MRI software, received FDA 510(k) clearance for advanced multiple sclerosis (MS) analysis. The software now analyzes MS, white matter hyperintensities, and brain atrophy using T2-FLAIR images, marking a key step in global expansion. Furthermore, seamless integration with Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS), is facilitating smoother data storage and access.

Growing Demand for High-Field MRI Systems

The growing demand for high-field MRI systems, such as 3T and 7T machines, is among the major South Korea Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) market trends. These systems offer enhanced image resolution, essential for diagnosing complex neurological and musculoskeletal conditions. The February 2025 study "Epidemiologic patterns and features of elderly cancer sufferers' admission to South Korean emergency rooms" highlighted the rising hospitalization and mortality rates among the elderly, especially those ≥85 years. As South Korea’s population ages, with older adults (>65 years) accounting for over 50% of cancer-related emergency department (ED) visits, the need for advanced diagnostic tools increases. High-field MRI systems provide superior clarity, aiding in the detection of smaller lesions in critical areas like the brain and spine, and supporting more accurate diagnoses. This trend is expected to drive further adoption in hospitals and healthcare centers.

Expansion of Outpatient Imaging Centers

Outpatient imaging centers are playing a crucial role in the South Korea Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) market forecast. These centers offer faster, more accessible diagnostic services, easing hospital wait times. By providing various imaging options, including MRIs, they reduce pressure on hospitals and improve healthcare efficiency. These centers are particularly beneficial for routine and non-emergency procedures, offering cost-effective alternatives. With rising demand for quick, convenient services, outpatient centers are expected to expand, enhancing diagnostic accessibility and reducing treatment delays. In a related development, on April 9, 2024, Nanox partnered with AhealthZ and SCL Science to enter the South Korean market. AhealthZ will help secure local authorizations for Nanox.ARC, a 3D imaging system, while SCL Science will integrate Nanox's AI solutions, expanding Nanox’s presence and enhancing diagnostic capabilities in South Korea's healthcare sector.

South Korea Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the South Korea magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) market, along with forecasts at the country and regional levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on architecture, field strength, and application.

Analysis by Architecture:

• Closed MRI Systems
• Open MRI Systems
   

Closed MRI systems are widely used in South Korea due to their high image resolution and superior diagnostic capabilities. These use strong magnetic fields ranging from 1.5T to 3T and are highly capable of image resolution for many types of diagnosis, such as neurological, musculoskeletal, or cardiovascular disease. Although they are the favorite of complicated investigations, closed MRI systems are not so easy on the patient due to limited space and can easily give rise to claustrophobia or anxiety in patients. It appears that despite its limitations, wide usage in such hospitals and specialties makes them quite a dominant business segment in MRI markets in South Korea.

Open MRI systems are increasingly preferred by patients due to discomfort and anxiety associated with closed MRI devices. These offer a roomier design since the opening of the machine is larger, allowing for less space confinement. Since open MRIs have generally smaller magnetic field strength (0.3T-1.2T), this does not decrease the imaging needed for many different diagnostic applications. It is highly useful in pediatric, geriatric, and claustrophobic patients. Increasingly, open MRIs are becoming a popular choice for outpatient imaging centers. Despite their lower resolution compared to closed systems, the demand for open MRI systems continues to grow.

Analysis by Field Strength:

• Low Field MRI Systems
• High Field MRI Systems
• Very High Field MRI Systems and Ultra-high MRI Systems

Low field MRI systems are gaining traction due to their affordability and accessibility. Operating at magnetic field strengths of less than 1.0T, these systems provide less detailed images compared to higher-field MRI systems, but they are still suitable for basic diagnostic applications, particularly in rural or smaller healthcare settings. The lower cost of installation and operation makes them a viable option for clinics and outpatient centers, where cost-effectiveness and quick access to imaging services are essential. Although their image resolution is limited, the demand for low-field MRI systems is steady due to budget-conscious healthcare providers.

High field MRI systems, which fall in the range of 1.5T to 3.0T, strengthen the South Korea magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) market demand, especially in hospitals and specialized imaging centers. These systems offer enhanced image quality as they are highly suitable for complex neurological, musculoskeletal, and cardiovascular diagnostics. The superior resolution allows the detailed capturing of small details, which facilitates the detection and monitoring of medical conditions. In fact, with further advancement in the healthcare infrastructure in South Korea, the demand for high-field MRI systems remains firm as they help to deliver more rapid and accurate diagnostic insights. They are much sought after in urban areas, where there is a high demand for advanced diagnostic capabilities.

Very high field MRI systems, at a strength of 7T or more, represents an increasingly expanding niche in South Korea's MRI market. They promise high image resolution and are both useful in research and highly specialized clinical applications, like advanced neuroimaging and cancer diagnosis. Though very high field systems are currently only used in a limited number due to their expense and the special facilities required, they are likely to become more widespread as technology improves and costs decrease. Ultra-high field MRI systems over 7T are also appearing, which are going to give unprecedented detail in brain imaging and push the frontiers of medical research.

Analysis by Application:

• Oncology
• Neurology
• Cardiology
• Gastroenterology
• Musculoskeletal
• Others

Oncology is a major application area for MRI systems in South Korea, where the growing prevalence of cancer is driving the demand for advanced imaging solutions. MRI plays a crucial role in detecting and monitoring tumors, assessing their size and location, and planning treatment strategies. High-field MRI systems, in particular, are valuable in oncology for their ability to provide high-resolution images that help identify early-stage cancers. With South Korea's aging population and increasing cancer incidence, MRI technology is becoming an essential tool in oncological diagnostics, aiding both in early detection and in evaluating the effectiveness of treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Neurology is another key area benefiting from advancements in MRI technology in South Korea. MRI is widely used for diagnosing neurological conditions such as brain tumors, multiple sclerosis, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. High-field MRI systems provide superior resolution for brain imaging, allowing clinicians to detect subtle abnormalities in the brain's structure and function. South Korea's robust healthcare infrastructure and focus on medical research have positioned MRI as a critical tool in both clinical practice and neurological research. As the country continues to experience an aging population, the demand for neurological imaging is expected to grow, further driving the market.

Cardiology is increasingly relying on MRI for the diagnosis and management of various cardiovascular diseases in South Korea. MRI provides high-quality imaging for the heart, blood vessels, and surrounding tissues, making it indispensable for assessing conditions such as myocardial infarction, heart failure, and congenital heart defects. Cardiac MRI, in particular, is a non-invasive imaging technique that helps evaluate cardiac structure and function, offering detailed information that other imaging modalities may not provide. As the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases rises, particularly among South Korea's aging population, the adoption of MRI for cardiology is expected to expand significantly, helping improve patient outcomes.

Region Analysis:

• Seoul Capital Area
• Yeongnam (Southeastern Region)
• Honam (Southwestern Region)
• Hoseo (Central Region)
• Others
   

The Seoul Capital Area, encompassing the capital city of Seoul and surrounding regions, is the primary hub for MRI usage in South Korea. This region has the highest concentration of healthcare facilities, including advanced hospitals and research centers, which drives the demand for state-of-the-art MRI technology. With a high population density and access to cutting-edge healthcare, the Seoul Capital Area is at the forefront of adopting the latest MRI systems, such as high-field and AI-integrated machines. Additionally, the region’s healthcare providers are focused on improving diagnostic accuracy and treatment outcomes, further fostering the MRI market's growth.

Yeongnam, the southeastern region of South Korea, is a key market for MRI systems, driven by the presence of large cities like Busan and Daegu. This area is home to a significant portion of the country's manufacturing and industrial sectors, leading to a higher demand for healthcare services due to work-related injuries and an aging population. As the healthcare infrastructure in Yeongnam continues to develop, there is increasing adoption of advanced medical technologies like MRI to diagnose conditions such as musculoskeletal and neurological disorders. Growing awareness and medical research initiatives further fuel the demand for high-quality diagnostic imaging in this region.

Honam, the southwestern region of South Korea, is also seeing rapid growth in the market, particularly in Gwangju. It has a strong agricultural and manufacturing industry and thus has a significant elderly population requiring medical services. There is a gradual increase in demand for advanced diagnostic tools such as MRI as the health infrastructure develops. High-field MRI systems are being increasingly installed by local hospitals and clinics in support of better patient care, consistent with national healthcare trends and patient outcomes.

Competitive Landscape:

The South Korea magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features intense competition from both global and domestic players. Major international companies lead the market with advanced high-field and ultra-high-field MRI systems, often integrating AI and cutting-edge software for enhanced diagnostic performance. Domestic manufacturers focus on providing cost-effective, specialized MRI systems tailored to local needs. The market benefits from strong government support for healthcare infrastructure, promoting innovation and affordability. In addition, local partnerships with distributors and healthcare providers are crucial for expanding reach. Among such examples is that of South Korea's ISOL Technology Inc., which collaborated with Indonesia's BRIN on July 1, 2024, to create a helium-free 0.6T MRI system. Its purpose is the enhancement of accessibility to healthcare through small hospitals and public facilities with the goal of reaching markets in ASEAN, the Middle East, and South Asia.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the South Korea magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) market with detailed profiles of all major companies.

Latest News and Developments:

• February 11, 2025: Incepto partnered with AIRS Medical to take AI-powered MRI reconstruction technology SwiftMR across Europe, aiming to speed up MRI scan times by 50% or more, augment image quality, and open more doors for better patient access and workflow efficiency to healthcare providers' facilities.
• November 27, 2024: Lunit, a South Korea-based AI company, announced a strategic partnership with Salud Digna, Mexico's largest healthcare network. Lunit will provide AI-powered chest X-ray and mammography solutions to Salud Digna's 230+ clinics. The partnership will enhance diagnostic accuracy, leverage large datasets for AI refinement, and collaborate on research to advance medical imaging AI in Latin America.
• September 13, 2024: National University Hospital unveiled Spine AI, an AI tool that analyzes lumbar spinal stenosis in just 47 seconds, saving 466 hours annually on MRI scans. Additionally, South Korea's Ministry of Health will deploy AI to check on 42,000 seniors living alone during Chuseok, utilizing AI voice calls for elderly care.
• March 19, 2024: Samsung Medison and Bracco Imaging signed a Memorandum of Understanding at ECR 2024 to improve ultrasound contrast agent utilization and image resolution. The collaboration will focus on research, high-frequency imaging, AI features like Live BreastAssist, and integrating diagnostic analysis software, aiming to enhance workflow, clinical benefits, and diagnostic accuracy for healthcare providers.

South Korea Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the South Korea magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) market from 2019-2033.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the South Korea magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) market.
• Porter's Five Forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the South Korea magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.