South Korea Tops U.S. in Cosmetics Exports with Record $11.4 Billion in 2025

South Korea exported a record $11.4 billion worth of cosmetics in 2025, surpassing the United States and securing the position of the world’s second-largest cosmetics exporter behind France, according to data released by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety on Saturday.

The figure represents an 11.8% increase from the previous year. France led global cosmetics exports with $24.3 billion, while the United States ranked third with $10.8 billion. South Korea and the U.S. swapped positions from 2024.

The cosmetics sector recorded a trade surplus of $10.1 billion in 2025, with imports totaling $1.29 billion. This marked the first time the surplus exceeded $10 billion since South Korea first recorded a surplus of $90 million in 2012. Cosmetics accounted for 12.9% of the nation’s overall trade surplus of $78 billion last year.

Export Market Shifts

The United States became South Korea’s largest cosmetics export destination in 2025, with sales rising 15% to $2.2 billion. China ranked second at $2 billion, down 19% from the previous year. Japan held third place with $1.1 billion.

Other key markets included Hong Kong, Vietnam, Russia and Taiwan. The number of export destinations expanded from 172 countries in 2024 to 202 in 2025. Among the top 10 markets, Poland saw exports surge 111.7% and the United Arab Emirates 67.2%, showing growing demand in Europe and the Middle East.

Product Breakdown

Skincare products led exports with $8.5 billion, accounting for 74.7% of total cosmetics exports. Color cosmetics contributed $1.5 billion, or 13.2%. Together, these two categories represented 87.9% of all cosmetics exports.

Domestic Production

Domestic cosmetics production reached a record 17.9 trillion won ($11.8 billion) in 2025, up 2.3% from the previous year. LG H&H led with 3.9 trillion won in production, followed by Amorepacific at 3 trillion won and Aekyung Industrial at 296.6 billion won.

Among original design manufacturers, Cosmax topped the list with 1.6 trillion won, ahead of Kolmar Korea at 1.3 trillion won and Cosmecca Korea at 353.1 billion won.

Industry Developments

The strong export performance reflects the continued global popularity of K-beauty products. South Korean cosmetics have gained market share through innovative formulations, effective skincare solutions and cultural influence via media and entertainment.

The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety data highlights the sector’s growing contribution to South Korea’s economy and trade balance. Online exports by small and medium-sized enterprises also showed strength, surpassing $300 million in the first quarter of 2026 according to separate reports.

Global Context

South Korea’s cosmetics industry has expanded steadily over the past decade. The country has focused on research and development, quality standards and international certification to support growth in the global beauty market. Major companies including LG H&H and Amorepacific have invested in international marketing and localized production in key markets.

The rise in exports to the United States and new growth in Europe and the Middle East demonstrates diversification beyond traditional Asian markets. The sector’s trade surplus has become an increasingly important factor in South Korea’s overall trade performance.

Originally published on ibtimes.co.kr