Health ministry says parliament passes cosmetics industry bill

The health ministry said Thursday that South Korea's parliament passed a bill to create a dedicated legal framework for the cosmetics industry, which has lacked a law aimed at industry-wide development. Until now, the Cosmetics Act has focused on safety and quality controls.

The measure broadens government support beyond manufacturers and brand companies to businesses that supply and distribute cosmetics. It permits support for technological innovation using data, artificial intelligence and digital technology, and overseas expansion. It also provides a basis to support professional training, raw-material and packaging industries, and distribution improvements, while allowing preferential treatment for small and medium-sized companies in major support programs.

The bill creates a certification category for innovative cosmetics companies with research and development investment and overseas-market capabilities. Certified companies can receive preferential treatment in national and local government programs and research and development projects.

The health minister must draw up a comprehensive industry-support plan every five years, while a public-private committee will review and coordinate major policies.

The measure takes effect one year after it is officially published, following cabinet approval.

Cosmetics exports reached a record $11.4 billion in 2025, a level second globally, and were the leading export category among South Korean small and medium-sized enterprises. "K-beauty has grown into an export industry with global competitiveness through the innovation and drive of our companies," Health Minister Jeong Eun-gyeong said.