List of Companies of South Korea: Largest and Most Notable Firms

South Korea is home to a thriving economy, with many large and notable companies contributing to its success.

Samsung Electronics is one of the largest and most influential companies in South Korea, with a market capitalization of over $500 billion.

LG Electronics is another major player in the country's economy, with a diverse range of products including home appliances, electronics, and vehicles.

Hyundai Motor Company is the largest automobile manufacturer in South Korea, producing over 7 million vehicles in 2020 alone.

Samsung is the 31st largest firm globally, with revenues of $198,257 million in 2024. It's a multinational electronics conglomerate with a significant presence in the world's largest information technology firms.

The company has a massive workforce of 267,860 employees, making it one of the largest employers in the world. Samsung's diversification into various industries has led to the creation of several closely branded subsidiaries.

Hyundai Motor Company is the 73rd largest firm globally, with revenues of $124,577 million in 2024. It's the third-largest automotive manufacturer in the world, with a significant presence in the global market.

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Hyundai Motor Company has a workforce of 73,502 employees, which is relatively smaller compared to Samsung's massive workforce. The company has a significant presence in the global automotive market, with several brand divisions, including Kia Motors and Genesis Motors.

The top five firms in South Korea, based on revenues, are Samsung, Hyundai Motor Company, SK Group, Kia, and Korea Electric Power Corporation. Here is a list of the top five firms in South Korea:

These firms are not only the largest in South Korea but also have a significant global presence, with operations in various industries, including technology, automotive, and energy.

Samsung Electronics is the world's biggest technology firm by revenue and the largest-listed company in South Korea, with a market cap of $165.2 billion.

It was founded in 1969 and has grown to become the world's biggest maker of memory chips, smartphones, and televisions.

About one fifth of South Korea's GDP is accounted for by the family-run Samsung Group, which has nearly 80 affiliates and is the parent company of Samsung Electronics.

The firm's second quarter profit hit a record $5.9 billion, powered by strong sales of its flagship Galaxy brand of smartphones.

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Big Hit Entertainment is a significant player in the South Korean entertainment industry.

Their market capitalization is a staggering $8.89 billion, a testament to their financial strength.

Headquartered in South Korea, Big Hit Entertainment operates within the country's communication services sector.

As a South Korean entertainment company, they are part of a thriving industry that showcases the country's vibrant cultural scene.

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Shinhan Financial Group is South Korea's largest banking services firm, founded in 2001 as a holding company for 11 subsidiaries.

The group was established through the merger of 11 subsidiaries, including Shinhan Bank, which is best known as the first bank in Korea.

Shinhan Financial Group has interests in asset management and life insurance, making it a diversified financial services provider.

The group experienced a major shakeup last year with the appointment of new chairman Hang Dong-woo, following a public embezzlement scandal that dented its image and led to the resignations of three top leaders.

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Market analysts expect the company to report an over 35 percent decline in net profit in the second quarter from a year earlier.

Despite this, 23 analysts out of 41 polled by Reuters think the company will outperform, with 10 calling it a buy and eight recommending it as a hold.

The stock has fallen 23.8 percent in the 12 months to July 10.

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South Korea is home to a thriving private sector, with many companies making significant contributions to the country's economy.

One notable private company in South Korea is Kakao Entertainment, a media company based in Seoul. It has been involved in 3 M&A activities over the past 5 years.

SK bioscience, another private company in South Korea, is a life science company based in Seongnam-si. It has also been involved in 2 M&A activities over the past 5 years.

Here's a list of some of the private companies in South Korea, along with their M&A activity counts:

These companies are just a few examples of the many private companies in South Korea that are making a significant impact in their respective industries.

In South Korea, you'll find a thriving business landscape with many notable companies beyond the top ones.

LG Corporation is a well-known electronics giant, founded in 1947.

Samsung Electronics is another tech powerhouse, founded in 1938.

Hyundai Motor Company is a leading automaker, established in 1967.

POSCO is one of the country's largest steel producers, founded in 1968.

LG Chem is a major chemical company, established in 1947.

The country is also home to several innovative startups, including Powrbot Inc, which aggregates public information for ease of research.