South Korea Launches US$27m Fund to Again Ok-Magnificence Startups Amid Export Challenges

THE WHAT? South Korea has launched a ₩40 billion (US$27 million) fund aimed toward supporting Ok-beauty startups, because the sector braces for potential US tariff impacts.

THE DETAILS The Ministry of SMEs and Startups has introduced the institution of a devoted magnificence fund—the primary of its sort focusing on all segments of South Korea’s cosmetics provide chain. The fund is a public-private initiative, with Kolmar Korea and Cosmax Inc., two of the nation’s prime unique improvement producers (ODMs), serving as anchor buyers. The transfer comes amid rising issues over lately introduced 25% reciprocal tariffs by the US, which, if carried out, might considerably have an effect on Korean magnificence exports. Cosmetics stay the highest export class for South Korean SMEs, with abroad gross sales reaching US$6.8 billion in 2023.

THE WHY? As Ok-beauty continues to play a number one function in South Korea’s export financial system, the newly launched fund seeks to bolster the worldwide competitiveness of home manufacturers and producers. The initiative goals to guard the trade from geopolitical and commerce disruptions whereas capitalising on the enduring enchantment of Korean innovation, high quality, and cultural affect. It additionally displays a broader technique to future-proof the sweetness sector by strategic funding and worldwide growth.