Cheongju:South Korean cosmetics and beauty product companies are actively seeking export deals at the annual Cosmetics and Beauty Expo Osong Korea 2026, which commenced on Thursday in North Chungcheong Province. This industry exhibition aims to connect local businesses with international buyers.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the expo, which runs through Saturday in Osong, a district of Cheongju, is organized by the provincial government. The event's theme, "K-Beauty Osong Seeks Growth Along With Global Partners," reflects its focus on expanding South Korea's beauty industry into global markets. The expo has drawn participation from over 250 companies, making it the largest since its inception in 2013.
Governor Shin Yong-han emphasized the importance of the expo in helping K-beauty products reach international markets and attracting global buyers to North Chungcheong Province, a recognized hub for the beauty industry. The provincial government, in collaboration with the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), has invited 200 domestic and international buyers, including notable Japanese retailers such as Ito-Yokado and Marui Group.
The expo is expected to facilitate over 1,200 one-on-one business meetings, aiming to generate significant export deals. The number of prominent overseas buyers has increased from six last year to 26 this year, reflecting the rising global demand for K-beauty products. Additionally, the event includes investment relations and mentoring programs for 10 local startups.
Further enriching the expo, two seminars have been scheduled. One, sponsored by the French-Korean Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI), addresses strategies for entering European markets, while another focuses on next-generation cosmetics technologies. These seminars aim to provide valuable insights and strategies to industry participants.