From 2013 to 2023, the volume of wastewater generated by industry in South Korea showed a fluctuating yet slightly declining trend. In 2023, it stood at 1.57 billion cubic meters per year. Year-on-year variations indicate decreases and increases throughout the period, with notable drops in 2014 and 2019. Over the most recent five years, the industry saw an average annual decline of 0.5%, signaling a reduction in wastewater volumes.
Looking ahead, the forecast suggests a modest continuing decline in industrial wastewater generation through to 2028. Key trends to watch include improvements in wastewater recycling technologies, more stringent environmental regulations, and industry shifts towards more sustainable practices, all of which could impact wastewater volumes in the years to come.
