Korean cosmetics gain popularity in Asia
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SEOUL: Myeongdong is one of the best-known shopping belts in Seoul, and like many shopping areas in South Korea, home-grown cosmetic shops are a mainstay here.
Many Korean cosmetic brands are no more than 10 years old, but
they have established themselves very quickly, thanks to their lower
prices compared to Japanese and European brands.
The beauty industry in South Korea is more than skin deep. It's closely linking the Korean drama, tourism and media, as well as Korean culture and tradition.
"Korean stars are very popular in Asia. Rain is the most popular, so we use him to be the face of our brand to attract people to buy our products," said Tad Hwang, the general manager of cosmetic brand Nature Republic's Overseas Department.
"Many Taiwanese come to our store to shop because Korean actor Lee Min Ho endorses our products. And they would ask for his posters," said Jin Hai Ying, a sales assistant with cosmetic brand Etude.
Japanese tourists are the biggest fans of Korean cosmetics.
"It suits me. It's cheap and cute. It's used by the Japanese stars, so it's popular in Japan," said one woman.
The beauty industry in South Korea is more than skin deep. It's closely linking the Korean drama, tourism and media, as well as Korean culture and tradition.
"Korean stars are very popular in Asia. Rain is the most popular, so we use him to be the face of our brand to attract people to buy our products," said Tad Hwang, the general manager of cosmetic brand Nature Republic's Overseas Department.
"Many Taiwanese come to our store to shop because Korean actor Lee Min Ho endorses our products. And they would ask for his posters," said Jin Hai Ying, a sales assistant with cosmetic brand Etude.
Japanese tourists are the biggest fans of Korean cosmetics.
"It suits me. It's cheap and cute. It's used by the Japanese stars, so it's popular in Japan," said one woman.