HanKook Kolmar: Pioneering the Global Expansion of Korean Cosmetics
Technological Excellence and Strategic Partnerships Propel HanKook Kolmar's Worldwide Growth
- HanKook Kolmar
- R&D
- global expansion
- distribution channels
- Korean cosmetics
안훈영 기자
Korean cosmetics, one of the nation's top export items, surpassed $10 billion in exports last year, achieving a record-breaking milestone. In response, Health Kyunghyang explored the government’s export promotion policies and covered the dynamic global activities of Korea’s leading cosmetics companies. Efforts from both the government and the industry continue to address increasingly strict export regulations around the world.<Editor’s Note>
■ Table of Contents
① Beyond China to the World: K-Beauty Takes Flight Again
② [Interview] Junsoo Shin, Director General of Biopharmaceuticals & Herbal Medicine, MFDS
③ AMOREPACIFIC
④ COSMAX
⑤ HanKook Kolmar
HanKook Kolmar leads the development of cosmetics that combine technological excellence and trust, with research and development (R&D) capabilities as its core competitive strength. The company employs around 600 researchers who independently carry out all stages of cosmetic development, including ▲new formulation design, ▲functional ingredient development, and ▲efficacy testing. In 2023, HanKook Kolmar invested approximately KRW 136.9 billion in R&D—about 6% of its total sales—marking the highest level in the industry.
In particular, HanKook Kolmar has gained recognition for its competitiveness in high-demand global product categories such as sunscreens, cleansing products, and sheet masks. This success is attributed to its advanced technologies that minimize skin irritation while maximizing functionality and user experience.
Another noteworthy aspect is HanKook Kolmar’s ability to develop products optimized for the unique preferences of consumers in each country. In the North American market, sun care and skincare products focus on high moisturization and low irritation. In Japan, the base skincare lines emphasize whitening functions and refined textures. In Southeast Asia, products featuring cooling effects and a light, refreshing feel have won over local consumers.
HanKook Kolmar places strong emphasis on co-growth with its client companies. To support their global expansion, the company has established a comprehensive support system that includes product development aligned with local regulations, trend-based product planning tailored to each market, and regulatory consulting for approvals and compliance.
HanKook Kolmar is also expanding its collaboration with global distribution channels. In June of last year, the company partnered with Amazon to host the “K-Beauty Conference Seller Day,” supporting client companies in entering the North American market. By providing comprehensive solutions across logistics, content, and marketing, HanKook Kolmar enables its clients to connect directly with local consumers through the Amazon platform, facilitating both distribution and market entry.
HanKook Kolmar is also diversifying its clients’ distribution channels through partnerships with platforms such as China’s Tmall Global. In doing so, the company provides practical support for overseas expansion, even for small and indie brands with limited export experience.
HanKook Kolmar possesses large-scale production capabilities in Korea, including a skincare manufacturing plant in Sejong, a color cosmetics plant in Bucheon, and a comprehensive R&D center in Seocho. The company operates a quality management system based on CGMP (Cosmetic Good Manufacturing Practice) and ISO certifications. To better respond to the global market, HanKook Kolmar established a North American Technical Sales Center in the U.S. in 2023 and is set to begin operations at its second U.S. plant in the second half of this year.
A HanKook Kolmar representative stated, “The reason K-beauty is loved around the world lies in its technology and trust,” adding, “We will continue to be a true partner to our clients by supporting them throughout the entire process—from product development to distribution—so they can succeed in the global market.”
