Korean cosmetics exports reach USD 11.1 billion through Q3
MFDS’s 2 October 2026 release reports a record January–September export total; this briefing separates the nine-month figure from quarterly and retail measures.
Published
21 October 2026 — South Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety announced on 2 October that cosmetics exports through the third quarter of 2026 reached USD 11.1 billion. The KDI policy summary of the release reports growth of 31.1% compared with the same period a year earlier.
What period does the figure cover?
The headline covers January through September, not the third quarter alone. The summary separately reports USD 4.17 billion for July–September. It names the United States as the largest destination in the nine-month figures, followed by China and Japan. Readers comparing this release with an annual report should retain the different time periods.
How to use the report
The release provides national trade context for K-Beauty. It does not measure THE CAST sales, individual consumer purchases or the availability of a particular brand in a destination. A growing export total is a reason to examine the underlying market data, not evidence that every retailer can supply every product.
Our accompanying statistics guide explains the period, unit and comparison checks to apply before reusing a headline. Follow the official release and its statistical attachment for the original scope and any subsequent revisions; use a current product listing for an actual shopping decision.