Online exports by South Korean small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) reached an all-time high of $300 million in the first quarter of 2026, up 38.2% year-on-year, according to data from the Ministry of SMEs and Startups released on May 14. This marks the first time quarterly online exports have exceeded the $300 million threshold, after hovering around $220 million in Q1 of both 2024 and 2025.
Cosmetics exports were the primary driver, surging 74.2% year-on-year to a record $200 million in the same period, fueled by the global popularity of K-beauty products. The ministry attributed the growth to sustained international demand for Korean skincare and beauty items, as well as policy measures announced in 2025 to support the domestic beauty industry.
“Online markets are an area where SMEs have strong competitiveness, and the effects of government policy support are leading to tangible overseas expansion results for domestic companies,” said Shim Jae-yoon, an official at the Ministry of SMEs and Startups.
Source: Read the original report | Published: May 14, 2026