South Korea Cosmetics Market Outlook

According to the latest insights by industry analysts, the South Korea cosmetics market attained a value of USD 17.45 billion in 2024. Supported by rising global demand for K-beauty products, continuous product innovation, and expanding international reach, the South Korea cosmetics market size is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 5.40% between 2025 and 2034, reaching an estimated value of USD 29.53 billion by 2034.

South Korea is widely regarded as one of the world’s most influential cosmetics hubs, renowned for its advanced skincare technologies, innovative product formulations, and rapidly evolving beauty trends. The country’s cosmetics industry encompasses a diverse range of products, including skincare, makeup, personal care, and functional cosmetics, all of which benefit from strong domestic consumption and increasing global recognition.

The popularity of K-beauty across the world, coupled with South Korea’s robust R&D capabilities and commitment to quality, continues to position the nation as a leader in the global beauty landscape.

South Korea Cosmetics Market Size and Share

South Korea holds a significant share in the global beauty and personal care market, driven by its strong export performance and premium product positioning. The domestic market size of USD 17.45 billion in 2024 reflects the country’s high per-capita beauty consumption and strong consumer focus on skincare, anti-ageing solutions, and dermatologically tested products.

South Korean brands enjoy substantial market share in international markets such as China, Japan, Southeast Asia, Europe, and North America. Leading brands—including AmorePacific, LG Household & Health Care, Innisfree, Laneige, The Face Shop, and Cosrx—continue to strengthen their global presence through omni-channel retail strategies and strategic collaborations.

With consumers worldwide increasingly embracing multi-step skincare routines and high-efficacy formulations, South Korea’s share in global cosmetic exports is expected to rise steadily throughout the forecast period.

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South Korea Cosmetics Market Trends

The South Korea cosmetics market is shaped by various emerging trends that reflect evolving consumer preferences and technological advancements:

1. Growing Demand for Functional Cosmetics
There has been a significant rise in skincare products offering multi-functional benefits, including anti-ageing, skin whitening, sun protection, and hydration. Functional cosmetics continue to gain traction among consumers seeking convenience and targeted skin solutions.

2. Rise of Clean, Vegan, and Sustainable Beauty
Sustainability has become a major focus, with consumers demanding eco-friendly packaging, cruelty-free testing, and vegan formulations. South Korean brands are increasingly adopting natural ingredients and transparent labeling to meet these expectations.

3. Influence of K-pop and K-drama Beauty Culture
The global popularity of Korean entertainment has fueled the demand for K-beauty products. Celebrities and influencers play a crucial role in shaping beauty standards and accelerating product adoption.

4. Technological Integration in Beauty Products
AI-based skincare diagnostics, personalized beauty solutions, virtual try-on tools, and smart beauty devices are reshaping the consumer experience. South Korea continues to lead the convergence of technology and cosmetics.

5. Expansion of Derma Cosmetics
Products that bridge the gap between cosmetics and dermatology—often backed by clinical research—are witnessing strong growth, particularly among consumers with sensitive or acne-prone skin.

Drivers of Market Growth

The South Korea cosmetics market is propelled by several key growth drivers:

1. Strong R&D Infrastructure
South Korea’s investment in research and innovation enables the development of advanced formulations, new textures, and high-performance ingredients. This continuous innovation keeps domestic brands competitive globally.

2. High Beauty Consciousness Among Consumers
Korean consumers prioritize skincare quality and innovation, contributing to strong domestic demand. The preference for multi-step skincare routines supports consistent product consumption.

3. Expanding Global Reach
Aggressive export strategies, global retail expansion, and strategic partnerships have boosted South Korean cosmetics’ international appeal. Online platforms and cross-border e-commerce further enhance market penetration.

4. Government Support for K-beauty Exports
The South Korean government provides support to cosmetics SMEs, participates in beauty expos, and promotes K-beauty globally through trade agreements and incentives.

5. Growing Male Grooming Segment
South Korea is one of the world’s largest markets for male cosmetics. High grooming standards and increased awareness of skincare among men are driving significant product demand.

South Korea Cosmetics Market Segmentation

The market can be divided based on category, price, category, gender and distribution channel.

Breakup by Category

Some of the major players explored in the report by Expert Market Research are as follows:

• Procter & Gamble Company
• LG Household and Health Co., Ltd.
• ABLE C&C, Inc.
• Korendy Cosmetics Inc.
• Amorepacific Corporation
• Others

Industry Analysis

South Korea’s cosmetics industry is highly competitive and characterized by continuous product innovation and strong branding. Large conglomerates such as AmorePacific and LG Household & Health Care dominate the market, but independent brands and startups have also gained strong traction, especially in global markets.

Distribution channels include department stores, specialty beauty stores, hypermarkets, online platforms, duty-free shops, and direct-to-consumer brand websites. E-commerce continues to gain prominence, supported by K-beauty’s strong presence on global online marketplaces.

Exports remain a critical growth driver, with China, the United States, and Japan serving as major importers of Korean beauty products. The industry benefits from strong marketing strategies, influencer collaborations, and widespread social media presence.

Challenges and Opportunities

Challenges:

Rising Competition from Other Global Markets
Countries such as Japan, France, and the United States are strong competitors in the cosmetics industry, which increases pressure on Korean brands to innovate continuously.

Dependence on Chinese Market
A significant portion of South Korea’s beauty exports relies on China. Policy changes or economic fluctuations in China can impact sales performance.

Counterfeit Products
The global presence of counterfeit K-beauty products affects brand reputation and consumer trust.

Regulatory Barriers Across Export Markets
Different countries have stringent cosmetic regulations, making global expansion challenging for smaller brands.

Opportunities:

Growing Demand for Clean and Sustainable Beauty
Brands focusing on eco-friendly and ethically sourced ingredients are expected to experience substantial growth.

Expansion in Emerging Markets
Southeast Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East represent untapped opportunities for K-beauty.

Personalized Skincare Solutions
AI-driven personalization and customized formulations present new avenues for innovation.

Growth of the Male Grooming Sector
Rising adoption of skincare among men can significantly boost revenue opportunities.

South Korea Cosmetics Market Forecast

The South Korea cosmetics market is expected to maintain robust growth over the forecast period. With a projected CAGR of 5.40% from 2025 to 2034, the market is anticipated to achieve a valuation of USD 29.53 billion by 2034. Continuous innovation, rising global appeal of K-beauty, and increasing consumer focus on premium and functional cosmetics will sustain this growth.

Technological advancements, expanding e-commerce, and the growing influence of Korean pop culture are set to further strengthen South Korea’s position as a global leader in the cosmetics industry.