Did South Korea's Cosmetics Exports Reach an All-Time High?
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Synopsis
South Korea's cosmetic exports have reached new heights, totaling $8.52 billion in the first nine months of the year. This growth reflects the country's strategic market diversification efforts, with the United States leading as the top destination. Discover how the Korean beauty industry continues to thrive despite challenges and what this means for the global market.
Key Takeaways
- South Korea's cosmetic exports reached an all-time high of $8.52 billion.
- Export growth reflects a 15.4% increase compared to last year.
- The U.S. is now the largest market for Korean cosmetics, accounting for 19.7% of exports.
- Skin care products dominate the export market, making up 41.7% of total sales.
- Korean cosmetics are now reaching 205 countries worldwide.
Seoul, Oct 17 (NationPress) South Korea's exports of cosmetics have soared to an unprecedented level in the initial nine months of the year, driven by expansion into new markets, according to recent data released on Friday.
The total value of outbound shipments of cosmetics reached US$8.52 billion during the January to September period, reflecting a 15.4 percent year-on-year increase and setting a record for this timeframe, as reported by the Korea Customs Service, with coverage from Yonhap news agency.
In the third quarter alone, cosmetics exports hit $3 billion, marking a 17.6 percent rise compared to the previous year.
This achievement signifies the ninth consecutive quarter of growth and represents the highest level for any third-quarter statistics, as stated by the customs agency.
When examining export destinations, the United States claimed the top spot, making up 19.7 percent of total exports, followed closely by China and Japan at 18.5 percent and 9.7 percent, respectively.
Despite a decline in shipments to China, which was once the leading market for South Korean cosmetics, international sales continue to thrive due to efforts aimed at market diversification, according to the customs agency.
Korean cosmetic products are now being exported to 205 countries, the highest number recorded to date, the agency added.
In terms of product categories, skin care items, such as moisturizers, constituted 41.7 percent of total overseas sales.
Other cosmetic categories, including sunscreen and anti-aging products, represented 25.5 percent, while color cosmetics, such as lipsticks and eye shadows, accounted for 1.4 percent.
Meanwhile, the nation's money supply surged at the fastest rate in 17 months in August, propelled by increasing funds amid a robust stock market, as indicated by central bank data released earlier this week.
The M2, a crucial indicator of the money supply, reached 4,400.2 trillion won ($3.08 trillion) in August, reflecting a 1.3 percent increase from the preceding month, according to preliminary reports from the Bank of Korea (BOK), as reported by Yonhap news agency.
This marks the largest monthly rise since March 2024, when M2 rose by 1.5 percent.
Year-over-year, the figure surged by 8.1 percent in August, registering the most significant annual increase since July 2022.
Point of View
I acknowledge the significant achievement of South Korea's cosmetic exports reaching record levels. This growth not only reflects the country's innovative spirit but also its resilience in adapting to market fluctuations. The ongoing effort to diversify markets, especially amidst challenges faced in traditional strongholds like China, showcases the dynamism of the Korean beauty industry.
NationPress
18/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the value of South Korea's cosmetic exports?
In the first nine months of this year, South Korea's cosmetic exports totaled $8.52 billion.
Which country is the largest market for South Korean cosmetics?
The United States is the largest market, accounting for 19.7% of total exports.
What percentage of exports does skin care account for?
Skin care products represent 41.7% of all overseas sales.
How many countries do Korean cosmetics reach?
Korean cosmetics are sold in a total of 205 countries.
What was the increase in the money supply in August?
The money supply increased by 1.3% in August, marking the fastest pace in 17 months.
