South Korea's Cosmetic Exports Hit US$7 Billion in H1 2026

Korean Beauty Exports Top US$7 Billion

South Korean cosmetics exports reached a record US$7 billion during the first half of 2026. This figure represents a 27.3 percent increase year-on-year. Preliminary data from South Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety shows robust international growth, primarily driven by strong demand from the United States.

Exports in the second quarter alone totaled US$3.9 billion, a rise from US$3.1 billion recorded in the first quarter of the year.

US Demand Drives Market Shift

The United States emerged as the largest export market for Korean cosmetics, with shipments increasing by 41.5 percent to US$1.45 billion. This volume accounts for 20.7 percent of South Korea's total beauty exports. In contrast, exports to China experienced a 6.6 percent decline, reaching US$1.01 billion.

Japan secured the third position among export markets, with US$580 million in Korean cosmetic imports during the same period.

Skincare Dominates, US Retail Presence Grows

Skincare products constituted the majority of these exports, totaling US$5.48 billion and making up 78 percent of the overall figure. Korean beauty brands are also actively expanding their presence within major US retail channels. This includes partnerships with prominent retailers such as Sephora, Ulta Beauty, and Amazon, which helps increase their reach to American consumers.

K-Beauty Diversifies Export Strategy

These export figures reveal a significant structural shift in the K-beauty market. The United States has now replaced China as the primary driver of growth for South Korean cosmetic exports. This diversification across a broader mix of brands and international retail channels is helping reduce reliance on individual markets and companies.

For Asian beauty brands, this trend suggests the importance of exploring varied global retail partnerships beyond traditional key markets to ensure sustained growth.