Yonhap News Agency's first Wednesday roundup summarizes major South Korean stories, including a plan to ease inter-Korean border restrictions, a stock rebound, K-beauty's resurgence, G7 diplomacy, a police probe and a World Cup match.
South Korea's K-beauty industry is experiencing a second global boom, shifting from legacy giants to indie brands, sophisticated manufacturers, and social media influence. Exports are soaring, with the U.S. and Europe becoming key markets, challenging France's dominance.
Cosmax, a global cosmetics ODM company, presented on K-beauty trends and efficacy ingredient technology at the '2026 NYSCC Suppliers' Day' in New York. This year marked the first time a session was dedicated to 'K-beauty,' focusing on preventive care, skin health, and advanced ingredient technologies like PDRN and NAD+.
South Korea's cosmetics trade surplus surpassed $10 billion for the first time in 2024, reaching $10.1 billion, a 13.5% increase from the previous year. Exports also hit a record high of $11.4 billion, making Korea the second-largest exporter globally, trailing only France.
South Korean beauty companies are partnering with Chinese short-form and live commerce platform Douyin to boost exports. KOTRA organized a B2B consultation event, resulting in on-site sales of approximately 90 million won. Korean products hold a 32% market share on Douyin's beauty cross-border e-commerce market.
