South Korea’s government is accelerating support for AI-integrated beauty tech, aiming to turn the country into the world’s top cosmetics exporter. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Koo Yoon-cheol recently met with beauty tech firms at Kolmar Korea’s R&D center to discuss collecting global skin data and easing regulations. This signals new opportunities for overseas buyers in customized cosmetics, smart manufacturing, and AI-powered beauty devices.
Policy direction
The government plans to build a tailored support system for AI-converged beauty tech, targeting global leadership. A core goal is to collect and analyze skin data from populations worldwide, enabling personalized product supply. This strategy aims to raise value-added in domestic cosmetics, drive tech innovation, and secure sustainable export growth.
Industry requests at the meeting
Major firms including Amorepacific, LG Household & Health Care, and Kolmar Korea urged clearer regulatory guidelines for the emerging beauty tech sector, creation of a dedicated beauty tech fund, and expanded support for advanced manufacturing infrastructure like smart factories. They also stressed the need for practical assistance to navigate stricter overseas certification procedures and boost exports.
Market signal
K-beauty already surpassed the US to become the world’s second-largest cosmetics exporter last year, and in Q1 2026 recorded a record $3.1 billion in exports. Korean beauty tech has also won consecutive Best Innovation awards at CES, signaling strong global recognition of its technology and creativity.
What buyers should watch
Overseas importers and distributors should monitor South Korea’s evolving regulatory framework for AI-based cosmetics and personalized products. The push for global skin data collection could lead to new OEM/ODM offerings tailored to diverse ethnic groups. Clinic buyers may see more AI-integrated diagnostic devices and customized skincare solutions entering the market.
Source: Read the original report | Published: May 28, 2026