South Korea MRI Market Size, Share, Opportunities, And Trends By Type (Closed, Open), By Application (Screening, Diagnosis, Treatment Monitoring, Research), By End-User (Hospitals, Diagnostic Centres, Others), And By Geography – Forecasts From 2025 To 2030

Description

South Korea MRI Market Size:

The South Korean MRI Market is estimated to attain a market size of US$292.384 million by 2030, growing at a 3.07% CAGR from a valuation of US$251.343 million in 2025, during the forecast period of 2025 to 2030.

South Korea MRI Market Introduction:

The South Korea MRI market is a dynamic and rapidly evolving segment of the country’s advanced healthcare ecosystem, driven by technological innovation, a robust regulatory framework, and increasing demand for diagnostic imaging. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) systems are critical for non-invasive, high-resolution imaging used in diagnosing a wide range of conditions, particularly in oncology and neurology. South Korea’s advanced healthcare infrastructure, supported by universal coverage through the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS), positions it as a leading market for medical devices in the Asia-Pacific region. The country’s focus on precision diagnostics, coupled with a growing South Korean geriatric population and MRI demand, fuels the adoption of MRI systems across hospitals, diagnostic centers, and outpatient facilities. With a population of approximately 51.8 million and a GDP of USD 1.87 trillion in 2024, South Korea’s healthcare sector is underpinned by significant KRW healthcare spending, which supports investments in cutting-edge medical technologies.

South Korea’s medical device regulations, MFDS, ensure that MRI systems meet stringent safety and efficacy standards, fostering trust among healthcare providers and patients. The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) oversees a streamlined regulatory process, including Korean Good Manufacturing Practices (KGMP) certification, which is mandatory for market entry. The market is characterized by the adoption of high-field MRI systems (3T and 7T) and AI-integrated solutions, such as AIRS Medical’s SwiftMR, which received FDA 510(k) clearance for enhancing image quality and reducing scan times. These advancements cater to the increasing need for precise diagnostics in oncology, where MRI is vital for early cancer detection and treatment evaluation, and in neurology, where it aids in diagnosing conditions like Alzheimer’s and brain tumors.

The South Korean geriatric population’s need for MRI is a significant growth factor, with 20% of the population (approximately 10.24 million people) aged 65 and older as of 2024, according to the Ministry of Interior and Safety. This demographic shift drives demand for MRI scans to diagnose age-related conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders. Additionally, South Korea’s focus on medical research and innovation, supported by government initiatives like the Innovative Medical Device Industry Promotion Act of 2019, encourages the development and adoption of advanced MRI technologies. The rise of outpatient imaging centers further enhances accessibility, reducing wait times and supporting the market’s growth.

The market is driven by several factors:

• Aging Population and Chronic Disease Prevalence: The South Korean geriatric population's MRI demand fuels the need for MRI scans to diagnose conditions like cancer and neurological disorders, prevalent among the elderly. The NHIS’s comprehensive coverage facilitates access to these services.
• Technological Advancements: Innovations such as AI-powered MRI software (e.g., SwiftMR) and high-field 3T/7T systems enhance diagnostic accuracy, particularly in oncology and the neurology MRI market in Korea.
• Government Support and Healthcare Infrastructure: Significant KRW healthcare spending and policies like the Innovative Medical Device Industry Promotion Act support R&D and market entry for advanced MRI systems.

Despite the growth, the market faces challenges, such as:

• High Costs and Regulatory Barriers: The cost of acquiring and maintaining high-field MRI systems, combined with rigorous South Korean medical device regulations, MFDS, including KGMP certification, poses financial and logistical challenges.
• Skilled Personnel Shortage: A lack of trained radiologists and technicians to operate advanced MRI systems can limit adoption, particularly in smaller facilities.

MRI Scan Cost Comparison: South Korea vs. Other Countries:

The cost of an MRI scan in South Korea varies depending on the facility, scan type, and insurance coverage. Under the NHIS, brain MRI scans for covered conditions (e.g., headaches) cost approximately 100,000–200,000 KRW (USD 75–150) after reimbursement, significantly lower than out-of-pocket costs of 400,000–600,000 KRW (USD 300–450) for non-covered scans. In comparison:

• United States: MRI scans range from USD 400–3,500, depending on the region and whether insurance is applied, often much higher than in South Korea due to fragmented healthcare coverage.
• Japan: Costs are similar to South Korea, ranging from JPY 10,000–30,000 (USD 70–200) with public insurance, but private scans can exceed JPY 50,000 (USD 350).
• Germany: MRI scans cost €400–1,000 (USD 450–1,100), partially covered by statutory health insurance, making them more expensive than South Korea’s insured rates.
• India: Scans are cheaper, ranging from INR 5,000–15,000 (USD 60–180), but quality and access vary widely compared to South Korea’s standardized infrastructure.

South Korea’s KRW healthcare spending through the NHIS ensures affordability for insured scans, making MRI more accessible than in countries like the U.S., where high out-of-pocket costs persist. However, non-covered scans in South Korea can still be costly, though they remain competitive with Japan and Germany. The country’s advanced infrastructure and regulatory oversight by South Korea's medical device regulations, MFDS, ensure high-quality imaging, positioning South Korea as a cost-effective yet advanced market for MRI services.

South Korea MRI Market Overview:

The country is witnessing high adoption of 3T MRI systems, AI-powered imaging, and hybrid modalities like PET-MRI, all of which improve diagnostic accuracy and operational efficiency. Moreover, collaboration are happening to boast technological advancement, such as in October 2024 AIRS Medical and HealthCare Konnect formed a partnership which aimed to accelerate access to SwiftMR, an AI-driven MRI acceleration software which uses deep learning to reduce MRI scan times by up to 50% while producing sharper images, allowing radiology centers to scan more patients in less time and ultimately enhancing the overall patient experience.

The increasing prevalence of chronic conditions like diabetes in South Korea is driving demand for advanced diagnostic imaging, such as MRI. Diabetes-related complications, including cardiovascular disease and stroke, necessitate early detection and monitoring through MRI.

As South Korea’s capital, Seoul boasts a robust healthcare infrastructure and ongoing advancements in medical technology for improved diagnostics. The city is home to major medical facilities, including Seoul National University Hospital and Seoul Metropolitan Government Medical Center, which offer MRI screening for diagnostic purposes. Additionally, heightened cancer awareness has prompted government initiatives like the “National Lung Cancer Screening Program,” further boosting the demand for MRI screening in Seoul and other major South Korean cities.

Some of the major players covered in this report include Siemens Healthineers AG, Canon Medical Systems Corporation, and Koninklijke Philips N.V., among others.

South Korea MRI Market Trends:

The South Korean MRI market is witnessing transformative trends driven by AI in healthcare and increasing demand for advanced diagnostic imaging. A key trend is the adoption of AI-powered MRI reconstruction, exemplified by AIRS Medical’s SwiftMR, which reduces scan times significantly while enhancing image quality. This technology supports faster diagnostics in hospitals and outpatient centers. 3T MRI adoption in the nation is also rising, with high-field 3T systems becoming standard in major hospitals for improved resolution in oncology and neurology imaging. Meanwhile, 7T MRI research in South Korea is advancing, with institutions like Korea University exploring ultra-high-field imaging for early brain disease detection, despite limited clinical availability due to high costs. MRI reimbursement policies in South Korea under the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) ensure affordability, covering scans for conditions like cancer, with costs as low as 100,000 KRW (USD 75) after reimbursement. The emergence of mobile MRI clinics in the country is another trend, improving access in rural areas through portable units, as seen in initiatives by Seoul National University Hospital. These trends highlight South Korea’s leadership in integrating AI and innovative delivery models to enhance MRI accessibility and efficiency.

South Korea MRI Market Drivers:

• Aging Population and Rising Chronic Disease Prevalence: The rising South Korean geriatric population is a primary driver of the MRI market, fueled by the country’s rapidly aging demographic and increasing prevalence of chronic diseases. With a significant portion of the population aged 65 and older, there is a growing need for MRI scans to diagnose age-related conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders, particularly in oncology and neurology. The National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) supports this demand by providing comprehensive coverage, making MRI scans accessible for conditions like Alzheimer’s and tumors. For instance, hospitals like Seoul National University Hospital report increased MRI utilization for elderly patients. This demographic shift, coupled with KRW healthcare spending, drives investments in advanced MRI systems to meet diagnostic needs, ensuring sustained market growth.
• Technological Advancements in MRI Systems: Technological innovation, particularly AI in healthcare, is a key driver of the South Korean MRI market. The adoption of AI-powered MRI reconstruction technologies, such as AIRS Medical’s SwiftMR, enhances image quality and reduces scan times, improving efficiency in oncology and neurology MRI. SwiftMR is widely adopted in South Korean hospitals for faster diagnostics. Additionally, 3T MRI adoption is increasing, with high-field systems offering superior resolution for complex cases. Research into 7T MRI, conducted by institutions like Korea University, further pushes the boundaries of diagnostic precision. These advancements align with South Korea's medical device regulations, MFDS, ensuring safety and efficacy, and drive market growth by meeting the demand for cutting-edge diagnostics.
• Supportive Government Policies and Healthcare Infrastructure: Significant KRW healthcare spending and robust government policies propel the South Korean MRI market. The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) enforces stringent South Korean medical device regulations, including Korean Good Manufacturing Practices (KGMP), ensuring high-quality MRI systems. Initiatives like the Innovative Medical Device Industry Promotion Act of 2019 encourage R&D and market entry for advanced MRI technologies, fostering innovation in the oncology MRI and neurology MRI markets. The NHIS’s MRI reimbursement policies in South Korea make scans affordable, with costs as low as 100,000 KRW for insured patients, driving utilization. The expansion of mobile MRI clinics further enhances access, particularly in underserved areas, as seen in initiatives by major hospitals. This supportive ecosystem accelerates market growth.

South Korea MRI Market Restraints:

• High Costs of MRI Systems and Regulatory Compliance: The South Korean MRI market faces challenges due to the high costs of acquiring and maintaining advanced MRI systems, particularly 3T MRI adoption and 7T MRI research in South Korea. High-field systems require significant investment, which can strain the budgets of smaller hospitals and clinics. Compliance with South Korean medical device regulations, MFDS, including rigorous KGMP certification, adds to costs through extensive testing and documentation. For example, manufacturers like Samsung Electronics face substantial expenses to meet MFDS standards for market entry. These financial barriers can limit adoption, particularly in facilities outside major urban centers, slowing market expansion despite strong demand driven by South Korea's geriatric population, MRI demand, and KRW healthcare spending.
• Shortage of Skilled Radiologists and Technicians: A critical restraint in the South Korean MRI market is the shortage of trained radiologists and technicians to operate advanced MRI systems, particularly those integrating AI in healthcare and AI-powered MRI reconstruction. The complexity of 3T MRI adoption and ongoing 7T MRI research requires specialized expertise, which is scarce in smaller facilities and rural areas. This shortage can lead to underutilization of MRI systems and longer wait times, impacting patient care in oncology MRI and neurology MRI. The Korea Health Industry Development Institute notes challenges in training sufficient personnel to meet the growing demand for diagnostic imaging. Despite supportive MRI reimbursement policies in South Korea, the lack of skilled professionals hinders the market’s ability to fully capitalize on technological advancements and infrastructure investments.

South Korea MRI Market Segmentation Analysis:

• The need for Closed MRI Systems is rising significantly: Closed MRI systems dominate the South Korean MRI market due to their widespread use in hospitals and diagnostic centers, offering superior image quality and higher magnetic field strengths, typically 1.5T or 3T. These systems are preferred for their precision in diagnosing complex conditions in oncology and neurology, such as brain tumors and cancers. Closed MRIs, like those from Samsung Electronics and Siemens Healthineers, are equipped with advanced features like AI-powered MRI reconstruction, enhancing resolution and reducing scan times, as seen in AIRS Medical’s SwiftMR. Their compact design and ability to handle high patient volumes make them ideal for urban hospitals in Seoul and Busan. Compliance with South Korea’s medical device regulations, MFDS, ensures safety and efficacy, driving their dominance despite higher costs compared to open systems. The South Korean geriatric population’s demand for MRI further solidifies its market leadership.
• Diagnosis is anticipated to be the leading application in the market: Diagnosis is the primary application driving the South Korean MRI market, as MRI scans are critical for the accurate detection of conditions like cancer, neurological disorders, and cardiovascular diseases. In oncology, MRI is used to diagnose tumors, while in neurology, it aids in identifying Alzheimer’s and stroke-related anomalies. The National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) supports this segment through MRI reimbursement policies of South Korea, covering diagnostic scans for insured conditions, making them affordable at approximately 100,000–200,000 KRW. Hospitals like Seoul National University Hospital rely heavily on 3T MRI for precise diagnostics, supported by AI technologies from companies like AIRS Medical. The South Korean geriatric population’s need for MRI fuels this segment, as elderly patients require frequent diagnostic imaging, cementing its dominance in the market.
• Seoul is expected to dominate the market growth: Seoul leads the South Korean MRI market as the country’s healthcare and economic hub, hosting advanced medical facilities and a high concentration of MRI systems. The city’s major hospitals, such as Seoul National University Hospital and Samsung Medical Center, drive demand for closed MRI systems and AI in South Korean healthcare, catering to oncology MRI and neurology MRI markets. Seoul’s infrastructure supports mobile MRI clinics, enhancing access to diagnostics for its dense population. The city benefits from significant KRW healthcare spending and NHIS coverage, ensuring the affordability of MRI scans under the MRI reimbursement policies of South Korea. Seoul’s leadership is further reinforced by its role in 7T MRI research, with institutions like Korea University advancing diagnostic capabilities. Its advanced healthcare ecosystem makes Seoul the epicenter of MRI adoption.

South Korea MRI Market Key Developments:

• In July 2025, AIRS Medical, a South Korean company specializing in AI-powered diagnostic imaging, announced a significant update to its SwiftMR software. The new release gives providers more autonomy, allowing clinical teams to personalize scan settings directly within the software. This update, which is available in South Korea and the United States, is designed to give users more control over their MRI operations, helping health systems standardize imaging and fine-tune protocols for various body parts. It also includes security upgrades and cloud integration.
• In November 2024, South Korean artificial intelligence company Neurophet announced that its brain MRI software, Neurophet AQUA, received FDA 510(k) clearance for advanced multiple sclerosis (MS) analysis. The software now uses T2-FLAIR images to analyze MS, white matter hyperintensities, and brain atrophy. This clearance is a crucial step in the company's global expansion, allowing it to bring its AI-powered diagnostic solution to a wider market.
• In July 2024, the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) of Indonesia, in collaboration with South Korea's ISOL Technology Inc., announced a partnership to develop a more affordable 0.6T MRI system. This collaboration aims to create a more accessible and cost-effective MRI product that doesn't rely on helium gas for cooling. The goal is to make MRI technology available to smaller hospitals and health facilities in developing countries, including those in Indonesia and other ASEAN nations.

South Korea MRI Market Segmentation:

• By Type
  • Closed
  • Open
• By Application
  • Screening
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment Monitoring
  • Research
• By End-User
  • Hospitals
  • Diagnostic Centre
  • Others
• By Geography
  • Seoul
  • Incheon
  • Busan
  • Daegu
  • Others

Table Of Contents

Companies Profiled

AIRS Medical Inc. 

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. 

Siemens Healthineers AG 

GE Healthcare 

Philips Korea Ltd. 

Canon Medical Systems Korea Co., Ltd.

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