South Korea Rises to No. 2 in Global Cosmetics Exports, Overtaking U.S.

South Korea Rises to No. 2 in Global Cosmetics Exports, Overtaking U.S.

South Korea has climbed to second place in global cosmetics exports, overtaking the United States and trailing only France, according to government data.

The country moved up from third place in 2024, reflecting rising exports and a broader shift in market distribution.

Data from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety showed that South Korea’s cosmetics exports reached $11.4 billion, up 11.8% year-on-year, marking a record high. The figure exceeded the United States, which recorded approximately $10.8 billion, while France remained the top exporter at $24.3 billion.

U.S. Becomes Largest Export Market

Changes in export destinations contributed to the shift in rankings.

Exports to China, previously South Korea’s largest market, declined 19% to about $2.0 billion, pushing it to second place. In contrast, shipments to the United States rose to $2.2 billion, making it the country’s largest export market for the first time.

The U.S. share of total exports expanded from 9.1% in 2021 to 19.1% in 2025. Japan remained the third-largest market with exports of about $1.1 billion, growing modestly.

Trade Surplus Exceeds $10 Billion

South Korea’s cosmetics trade surplus surpassed $10 billion for the first time, reaching $10.13 billion, up 13.5% from a year earlier.

Imports remained relatively stable at around $1.3 billion annually, while exports continued to expand. The cosmetics sector accounted for approximately 12.9% of the country’s total trade surplus, which stood at about $78 billion.

Exports Expand to Over 200 Markets

South Korea exported cosmetics to 202 countries, up from 172 markets previously.

Growth was notable in Europe and the Middle East.

Exports to Poland rose 115% to $280 million, while shipments to the United Arab Emirates increased 70.6% to $290 million.

By category, skincare products dominated with $8.5 billion (74.7% of total exports), followed by makeup products at $1.5 billion (13.2%).

Production Growth Driven by Mid-Sized Firms

Domestic cosmetics production reached 17.9 trillion won, up 2.3% from a year earlier.

Large companies maintained their leading positions, while several mid-sized firms expanded production and improved rankings on the back of global distribution gains.

In the original design manufacturing (ODM) segment, key players continued to account for a significant share of production capacity.

In 2025, the cosmetics trade surplus exceeded $10 billion for the first time ever, making up 12.9% of the country’s total trade surplus.

Market View

Industry observers attribute South Korea’s rise in the export rankings to market diversification and growing demand in the United States.

Reduced reliance on a single market, particularly China, is also seen as strengthening the country’s export structure.