Health ministry launches K-beauty strategy with young entrepreneurs

The health ministry said Friday it held a meeting with young cosmetic entrepreneurs to gather feedback on industry support measures following the enactment of the Cosmetics Industry Promotion Act. Health Minister Jeong Eun-kyung hosted the session at Beauty Play Myeongdong, a showcase space for small and medium-sized cosmetic brands in central Seoul.

Ten young business leaders attended alongside Minister Jeong and Rep. Lee Su-jin, who sponsored the legislation. Participants called for expanded research and development grants, stronger intellectual property protections and improved access to overseas markets.

Kim Hyo-ju, CEO of Larachara, shared how government programs helped her firm enter foreign markets but urged more support for efficacy and safety verification. Park Hyung-ki of Mimetics emphasized the need for rapid relief mechanisms when patent disputes arise.

South Korea's cosmetic exports reached a record $11.4 billion in 2025, ranking second globally and shipping to 205 countries. The new law establishes a legal framework for full-cycle support covering raw materials, manufacturing, distribution and export activities.

Under the legislation, the health minister must draft a five-year industry promotion plan and coordinate implementation across relevant agencies. The law also introduces a certification system for innovative cosmetic firms and supports the creation of specialized industrial clusters.

The government is operating a task force aimed at making K-beauty the global number one brand, with three working groups focusing on infrastructure, export support and regulatory reform. A comprehensive strategy is expected to be announced before the end of the year.

The ministry plans to launch a large-scale R&D project in 2028 focused on next-generation skin health technologies integrating artificial intelligence and data analytics. The 2027 budget proposal includes funding for a new flagship hub in China and an expansion of skin characteristic data collection from 500 to 2,500 subjects annually.

To further incorporate public input, the ministry opened a contest for ideas on industry promotion running from September 18 to October 8. Submissions are accepted through the Allcos integrated management system.

"The enactment of the Cosmetics Industry Promotion Act is a new starting point for our cosmetic industry and the precious K-beauty brand to leap to number one in the world," Jeong said. "We will faithfully reflect the vivid voices of young entrepreneurs heard today in preparing for the law's implementation and our inter-ministerial K-beauty strategy."

Rep. Lee expressed hope that the law would provide an institutional foundation for K-beauty's next phase of growth. "I will carefully examine the necessary systems and budgets in the National Assembly so that the law can lead to substantial results in the field," she said.