The South Korea cosmetics market size USD 18.39 Billion in 2025. The growing demand for multifunctional skincare products, like serums doubling as primers, is encouraging brands to innovate hybrid formulations that align with the country’s fast-paced beauty routines and minimalistic trends. As a result, the market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.40% during the forecast period of 2026-2035 to reach a value of USD 31.12 Billion by 2035.
The market has continued to be a dynamic hub for innovation, R&D activities, and premium skin science. Fuelled by government-supported exports and a digital-first retail ecosystem, the sector has witnessed a surge in functional and dermatologically advanced formulations. According to industry reports, functional cosmetics accounted for nearly 37.5% of the total production value. In March 2023, Korean government announced plans to develop technologies related to bespoke cosmetics, personalised skin diagnosis programmes using IoT and big data to nurture Korean bio-health industry.
Homegrown players are merging skincare with biotechnology and AI diagnostics, reshaping the South Korea cosmetics market dynamics. Amorepacific’s “Mind-linked Bathbot” technology, for instance, recommends fragrances and colours based on consumers' brainwaves, while companies like the Monodist have introduced fermented ingredients derived from traditional hanbang medicine into mass-market skincare.
Moreover, a renewed focus on minimalist routines and ingredient transparency is shaping product preferences among consumers, boosting the market value. Unlike traditional markets, where branding dominates, South Korean buyers lean towards performance-based claims and scientific legitimacy. Online-first brands such as Axis-Y and Mixsoon are thriving through interactive community testing platforms and co-development with customers, enabling rapid prototyping and market feedback loops.
Base Year
Historical Period
Forecast Period
The International Trade Administration reported South Korea's cosmetic production hit $14.5 billion in 2021.
According to the Korean Customs, skincare cosmetics imports represented 41.8 per cent, or $711 million, of total cosmetic imports in 2022.
According to the Korean National Statistical Office, online cosmetics transactions reached $8.1 billion in 2022.
Compound Annual Growth Rate
5.4%
Value in USD Billion
2026-2035
*this image is indicative*
| South Korea Cosmetic Market Report Summary | Description | Value |
| Base Year | USD Billion | 2025 |
| Historical Period | USD Billion | 2019-2025 |
| Forecast Period | USD Billion | 2026-2035 |
| Market Size 2025 | USD Billion | 18.39 |
| Market Size 2035 | USD Billion | 31.12 |
| CAGR 2019-2025 | Percentage | XX% |
| CAGR 2026-2035 | Percentage | 5.40% |
| CAGR 2026-2035 - Market by Gender | Female | 6.2% |
| CAGR 2026-2035 - Market by Distribution Channels | Online | 11.5% |
| Market Share 2025- Market by Gender Type | Female | 71.3% |
Dermo-cosmetics has been a key trend in the South Korea cosmetics market, as consumers lean into science-backed regimens. Local brands like Dr.G and Illiyoon are partnering with hospitals to co-develop treatment-safe skincare, blending dermatology with beauty. B2B interest has grown as hospitals, wellness centres, and spas demand clinical-level cosmeceuticals. With ageing populations and skin sensitivity on the rise, this medical-beauty concept appeals to consumers, particularly as traditional skincare fails meeting their expectations. Korean biotech firms are also investing in microbiome research and exosome-based delivery systems, boosting exportability to pharma-cosmetic retailers.
Companies in the South Korea cosmetics industry are increasingly extracting functional active ingredients like polyphenols from fruit waste or amino acids from rice husks. Brands like Aromatica and The Vegan Glow use by-products from local agro-industries to create circular economy formulations. This trend is attracting ingredient manufacturers, contract labs, and eco-certifiers keen to meet global ESG targets. It also reduces raw material import reliance, making the sector resilient and agile. R&D firms are even patenting enzyme-based extraction technology for more stable and potent actives.
AI-based beauty personalisation is reshaping supply chains, boosting the South Korea cosmetics market development. For instance, Amorepacific’s “IOPE Lab” provides precision skincare recommendations using facial scanning and data analytics. These platforms integrate climate data, skin pH levels, and UV exposure to create dynamic routines. In March 2024, South Korea’s government invested USD 585 billion in domestic AI research and development. Retailers now deploy these tools in kiosks and apps, enabling on-demand formulation and localised production. This trend unlocks potential for B2B skin technology providers, software developers, and even insurers interested in preventive skincare solutions.
South Korea’s men’s cosmetics market is fast evolving through the lens of personalisation and smart beauty technology. Instead of offering standard grooming kits, brands are now leveraging AI-powered skin analysers and app-integrated skincare routines designed specifically for men. A prime example has been Lululab’s AI-powered “Lumini” skin analyser, which provides personalised recommendations based on real-time facial scans, used in flagship stores and pop-ups targeting male consumers. This trend is reshaping the product journey, from customised cleansers to adaptive moisturisers based on real-time skin data, accelerating the South Korea cosmetics market value. Further, smart mirrors and mobile diagnostics are helping users track hydration, oil balance, and sun damage. Tech-enabled solutions are driving engagement, especially among Gen Z and millennial male consumers seeking control, convenience, and efficacy in their skincare experience.
Niche, purpose-driven indie brands are transforming the overall market dynamics. Leveraging community-based marketing and direct-to-consumer (D2C) models, brands like Torriden and Round Lab experienced significant growth through platforms like Olive Young and Musinsa Beauty. The World Intellectual Property Office reported a 9.4% increase in brand trademark registrations in 2022. Indie brands are introducing lab-to-market cycles as short as six weeks and testing launches through mini-SKUs and sample drops. OEM/ODM firms benefit from this agility by developing versatile, low-MOQ product lines.
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The EMR’s report titled “South Korea Cosmetics Market Report and Forecast 2026-2035” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:
Market Breakup by Category
Key Insight: Skincare remains dominant in the cosmetics market in South Korea, owing to biotech-backed efficacy. Hair care is evolving with scalp-focused and anti-hair fall products. Bath and shower categories are getting upgrades through aromatherapeutic and water-saving formulas. Deodorants and fragrances are thriving with the wellness trend with alcohol-free, skin-friendly blends. Makeup and colour cosmetics are growing fast, powered by AI-infused applicators and hybrid ingredients. ‘Others’ category, including foot care is gaining traction among ageing and health-conscious consumers.
Market Breakup by Price Category
Key Insight: Both premium and mass-market categories are driving growth in the South Korea cosmetics market. Premium cosmetics bank on biotechnology, luxury packaging, and high-efficacy claims. Mass-market offerings, on the other hand, grow with affordability, trend responsiveness, and volume-based SKUs. Private labels and fast-beauty brands are offering premium-quality products at mass prices. Whether targeting mature international buyers or trend-seeking Gen Z, price categorisation is now being complemented with ingredient traceability, clean labels, and refillable systems.
Market Breakup by Gender
Key Insight: All genders considered in the South Korea cosmetics market report are evolving with distinctive product needs and consumer behaviours. Female consumers demand for customisation for ritualistic engagement in skincare. Male consumers, on the other hand, are adopting minimalist, functional routines with a wellness overlay. The unisex category is expanding through fragrance-free, pH-neutral, and multipurpose products, appealing to Gen Z and gender-fluid buyers. Brands are beginning to drop traditional gender cues altogether, favouring inclusive language and neutral branding. For B2B manufacturers and retailers, this opens opportunities to develop flexible formulations that transcend conventional boundaries.
Market Breakup by Distribution Channels
Key Insight: Online platforms occupy a significant share of the South Korea cosmetics industry due to convenience, customisation, and social commerce features. Specialty stores are rebounding with immersive, experience-rich environments. Hypermarkets offer value-focused packs, while pharmacies blend beauty with wellness and derma-backed advice. Other channels, like duty-free and vending kiosks, cater to niche demands such as tourist buys and impulse purchases. For B2B players, these trends indicate aligning inventory technology, UX tools, and CRM solutions to support brands targeting multiple, behaviour-driven retail points across a fragmented but fast-evolving retail landscape.
| CAGR 2026-2035 - Market by | Gender |
| Female | 6.2% |
| Male | XX% |
| Unisex | XX% |
| CAGR 2026-2035 - Market by | Distribution Channels |
| Online | 11.5% |
| Hypermarkets and Supermarkets | XX% |
| Specialty Stores | XX% |
| Pharmacies/Drug Stores | XX% |
| Others | XX% |
By Category, Skin Care Accounts for the Dominant Share of the Market
Skin care dominates the South Korean market with high consumer engagement in multi-step routines and functional ingredients. Products focusing on hydration, barrier repair, and pigmentation correction are highly sought. The government classifies these under ‘functional cosmetics’, driving innovation through streamlined approval processes. Popular brands like Enbioscience, Minu Story, and Cosvision, are pushing fermented, microbiome-boosting, and cica-infused creams, supported by domestic biotechnology. High-performance ampoules and serums dominate the D2C channels, where brands rapidly test and iterate based on consumer feedback. According to the South Korea cosmetics market analysis, exports of skin care to China alone reached USD 1.46 billion YoY in 2024. Ingredient-first storytelling and result-driven campaigns have helped South Korean skincare maintain its dominance both locally and abroad.
While skincare holds the leading position, the makeup category is rebounding rapidly, especially in hybrid formats. Tinted serums, tone-up cushions, and SPF-infused foundations have replaced heavy formulations. Brands like 3CE and Dasique are leveraging platform-exclusive launches and influencer-led drops. The Ministry of SMEs and Startups has been supporting beauty-technology crossovers in this space, funding projects totalling over USD 40 billion, that integrate LED-infused applicators and colour-matching AI. Eye cosmetics and lip tints, in particular, are in high demand, driven by social media aesthetics and rising event-based spending.
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By Price Category, the Premium Segment Registers the Majority of the Revenue Share
The premium price category holds a dominant position in the South Korean market as consumers increasingly associate skincare with long-term health benefits. Premium offerings now include functional skincare developed with biotechnology, including exosomes, DNA repair enzymes, and encapsulated actives. Brands like Sulwhasoo and The History of Whoo maintain luxury status by blending heritage ingredients with clinical science. Cosmetic exports from South Korea have amounted to USD 8.46 billion in 2025 meanwhile, whereas imports decreased by 1.5%. Premiumisation is also visible in packaging, where reusable jars, refillable formats, and glass-based packaging are standard. High-end department stores and boutique lounges curate immersive brand experiences. B2B stakeholders are targeting affluent markets like Japan, China, and the UAE through tailored, high-efficacy luxury lines.
Mass-market cosmetics demand in South Korea is evolving with a strong focus on value and performance. Players like The Saem and Etude are launching ingredient-focused products at accessible prices. Mass market players are using simplified SKUs and refill packs to reduce costs and boost sustainability appeal. Influencer-driven mini launches and high-volume D2C drops ensure market reach. Export potential is also strong in Southeast Asia and Latin America.
By Gender, Women Continue to Dominate the South Korean Market
Women represent the dominant gender in the market, with deep engagement in skin rituals, self-care, and aesthetic expression. Female consumers drive demand for multifunctional skincare, lightweight foundations, and anti-pollution serums. Leading brands like Gladerma, Church & Dwight Co. Inc., and Bausch Health Companie Inc., are now tailoring hormonal skincare to different phases of the menstrual cycle, gaining interest from gynaecologists and wellness clinics. Beauty influencers and beauty cafés are enabling experiential buying for women, fuelling sales in both offline and online modes.
Male grooming is rapidly boosting the South Korea cosmetics market opportunities. From matte sunscreens to skin-balancing toners, men are embracing minimalist yet effective products. Influencers and K-pop idols normalising makeup and skincare are creating aspirational pathways for this demographic. Dedicated male-only product lines offered by brands like AP Beauty, The Whoo, Sulwhasoo, have grown widely popular. Demand for beard care, anti-fatigue creams, and sport-specific sunscreens is opening new B2B packaging and formulation opportunities.
By Distribution Channel, the Online Segment Secures the Majority of the Market Share
Online retailing represents the leading distribution channel bolstered by tech-savvy consumers and high smartphone penetration. Major e-commerce platforms like Coupang, Naver Smart Store, and Olive Young Online have contributed to increased sales. Live commerce has become an industry norm, where real-time product demonstrations and influencer reviews increase engagement and conversion. The government supports this channel’s growth through digitalisation grants for SMEs, aiding smaller cosmetic players in going global. AI-powered beauty assistants, try-on filters, and personalised subscription boxes are fuelling repeat purchases. B2B stakeholders such as logistics providers, fulfilment centres, and D2C technology enablers are witnessing demand as more brands prioritise direct online sales over traditional retail footprints, while widening the scope of South Korea cosmetics market expansion.
Specialty stores are resurging with curated experiences and niche-brand showcases. Unlike generic retail, these outlets offer tailored consultations, ingredient education, and try-before-you-buy formats. Olive Young and Lalavla are increasingly directing their efforts to this strategy, rolling out concept stores and in-store diagnostic labs. Indie brands are benefitting from this setup as they gain premium shelf space alongside heritage names. Beauty pop-ups, K-pop collaboration zones, and micro-influencer events are core to their engagement tactics.
Leading South Korea cosmetics market players like LG Household & Health Care, Amorepacific, and Kolmar Korea are investing in biotechnology innovation, AI diagnostics, and lab-grown actives. While conglomerates dominate scale, indie brands are disrupting with ethical sourcing, community-driven R&D, and subscription-first launches. OEMs and ODMs play a central role, offering customisable low-MOQ solutions that feed indie and global brands alike.
Moreover, South Korea cosmetics companies are localising offerings through exclusive K-pop collaborations or traditional Korean ingredients to gain shelf traction. Growth potential lies in personalised formulations, ESG compliance, and B2B digital infrastructure. Ingredient suppliers, packaging innovators, and cloud-based retail platforms are witnessing rising demand from Korean exporters. Export-oriented collaborations and IP licensing opportunities are expected to intensify over the coming years. Strategic partnerships across R&D, technology, and clean beauty manufacturing are becoming crucial for sustaining relevance and capturing high-value verticals.
The Procter & Gamble Company, founded in 1837, is an American multinational consumer goods company. The company offers products for baby care, fabric care, feminine care, grooming, hair care, home care, oral care, personal health care, and skin and personal care. Through the skin and personal care category, the company provides its products through brands such as Olay and Od Spice. The hair care brands of the company include Head and Shoulders, Pantene, and Herbal Essence.
Based in Seoul, South Korea, LG Household and Health Co., Ltd. is a cosmetic, household goods and beverage company with product portfolio of the prestigious cosmetic brands such as OHUI (stem cell technology), WHOO (traditional Korean herbal medicine), Su:m (natural fermentation technology), and belif (medicinal herb). Under the health segment, the company provides products for hair care, skincare, oral, laundry, cleaning, aromatics, baby and others.
Founded in 2001, abd based in South Korea, ABLE C&C, Inc is a Korean beauty brand based in Seoul. The brands of the company include MISSHA, A’pieu, CHOGONGJIN, stila, Cellapy, LAPOTHICELL, Mefactory, MERZY, HONESI, BODY HOLIC, and Sengdo. In 2022, the company launched an integrated online platform 'Able Shop. In 2022 June, the company launched the brand CHOGONGJIN. ABLE C&C is considered South Korea’s first brand shop.
Korendy, founded in 2015, is a South Korean beauty company providing the customers with globally recognized Korean brands, including Mixsoon, Moremo, Amuse, Medicube, Anua, Beauty of Joseon, Anua, Cosrx, Klairs, and I'm From. The company offers top-quality skin care and cosmetic products.
*Please note that this is only a partial list; the complete list of key players is available in the full report. Additionally, the list of key players can be customized to better suit your needs.*
Another key player in the market is Amorepacific Corporation, among others.
Explore the latest trends shaping the South Korea cosmetics market 2026-2035 with our in-depth report. Gain strategic insights, future forecasts, and key market developments that can help you stay competitive. Download a free sample report or contact our team for customised consultation on South Korea cosmetics market trends 2026.
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*While we strive to always give you current and accurate information, the numbers depicted on the website are indicative and may differ from the actual numbers in the main report. At Expert Market Research, we aim to bring you the latest insights and trends in the market. Using our analyses and forecasts, stakeholders can understand the market dynamics, navigate challenges, and capitalize on opportunities to make data-driven strategic decisions.*
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In 2025, the South Korea cosmetics market reached an approximate value of USD 18.39 Billion.
The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.40% between 2026 and 2035.
The revenue generated from the South Korea cosmetics market is expected to reach USD 31.12 Billion in 2035.
Key strategies driving the market include investing in AI diagnostics, expanding low-MOQ private labels, co-creating export-ready clean beauty lines, integrating omnichannel retail tech, and partnering with biotech labs.
New beauty trends like DIYs, the rising influence of celebrities and the media, and the increasing demand for innovative cosmetic products are the key industry trends.
The products find applications in hair products, lip products, face products, and eye make-up, among others.
Based on distribution channels, the market is divided into hypermarkets and supermarkets, speciality stores, pharmacies/drug stores, online, and others.
The key players are Korendy Cosmetics Inc., Amorepacific Corporation, LG Household and Health Co., Ltd., Procter & Gamble Company, and ABLE C&C, Inc among others.
The market is categorised according to the category, which includes skin care, hair care, bath and shower, makeup and colour cosmetics, deodorants and fragrances, and others.
Based on the price category, the market is divided into mass and premium.
Based on gender, the market is divided into female, male, and unisex.
The key challenges are regulatory complexity and rising raw material costs. Moreover, global competition and counterfeit goods undermine export credibility and squeeze margins across domestic brands.
Explore our key highlights of the report and gain a concise overview of key findings, trends, and actionable insights that will empower your strategic decisions.
| REPORT FEATURES | DETAILS |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Historical Period | 2019-2025 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2035 |
| Scope of the Report |
Historical and Forecast Trends, Industry Drivers and Constraints, Historical and Forecast Market Analysis by Segment:
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| Breakup by Category |
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| Breakup by Price Category |
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| Breakup by Gender |
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| Breakup by Distribution Channels |
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| Market Dynamics |
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| Trade Data Analysis |
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| Competitive Landscape |
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| Companies Covered |
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