South Korea’s cosmetic packaging market is experiencing strong growth, driven by the global expansion of K-beauty, rising demand for sustainable packaging, and the digital transformation of retail channels. In 2024, the market was valued at approximately USD 2.45 billion,  registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.35%.

Key Market Drivers (2025–2026)

1. K-Beauty Globalization

South Korean beauty exports have surged over the last five years. Much of this growth is attributed not only to innovative product formulations but also to visually appealing and functional packaging. Packaging formats are a key branding element in K-beauty, helping brands capture global attention—particularly in the U.S., Europe, and Southeast Asia.

2. Eco-Friendly Packaging Demand

Eco-conscious consumers are pushing for sustainability in packaging. Over the last three years, biodegradable cosmetic packaging usage in South Korea has increased by over 30%. In response, leading cosmetic brands are shifting to paper-based tubes, glass containers, refillable components, and PCR (post-consumer recycled) plastics.

By 2026, eco-friendly packaging is expected to represent over 40% of all new product launches in the cosmetic sector in South Korea.

3. E-Commerce and Smart Packaging

South Korea has one of the highest e-commerce penetration rates globally, with over 65% of cosmetic purchases happening online in 2025. This has prompted brands to invest in:

• Durable secondary packaging

• Tamper-evident seals

• QR code–enabled smart labels

• Augmented Reality (AR) experiences

Smart packaging not only enhances security and transparency but also increases consumer engagement and brand loyalty.

4. OEM/ODM & Design Innovation

South Korea is a global leader in OEM/ODM manufacturing for cosmetics. Manufacturers offer design customization, rapid prototyping, and co-development services, which align with the fast-paced innovation demands of indie and global beauty brands.

The strategic integration of AI-assisted design, rapid mold prototyping, and low-carbon printing is helping these suppliers meet the market’s need for personalization and sustainability.

Market Segmentation Overview

By Material:

• Plastic (dominant share): Lightweight, flexible, and cost-effective

• Glass: Premium look, recyclable

• Paperboard: Rapidly growing eco-friendly option

• Metal: Used in high-end packaging (lipsticks, perfume)

By Packaging Type:

• Tubes: Especially for skincare, sunscreens, BB creams

• Bottles & Jars: Popular for serums, toners, and masks

• Sticks: Emerging for sunscreen and foundation

By Application:

• Skincare (largest segment)

• Makeup

• Haircare

• Fragrances

Forecast Through 2026

South Korea’s market will continue to expand through 2026, supported by regulatory shifts (e.g., extended producer responsibility laws), increased private-label penetration, and emerging cosmetic sub-segments like men’s grooming and senior care.

Business Opportunities

1. Invest in Green Materials: Recycled and biodegradable packaging materials offer both branding and regulatory advantages.

2. Leverage Technology: QR-enabled authentication, NFC tags, and AR-enhanced packaging experiences are gaining ground.

3. Expand into ODM Partnerships: Tap into South Korea’s fast innovation cycles through collaborative development.

4. Differentiate with Design: Unique color schemes, ergonomic shapes, and sensorial finishes help products stand out both online and offline.

Sources

1. Towards Packaging. Cosmetic Packaging Market Insights 2024–2034. Retrieved from: https://www.towardspackaging.com/insights/cosmetic-packaging-market

2. Towards Packaging. Plastic Packaging Market Report. Retrieved from: https://www.towardspackaging.com/insights/plastic-packaging-market

3. Towards Packaging. Flexible Packaging Market Growth. Retrieved from: https://www.towardspackaging.com/insights/flexible-packaging-market

4. Towards Packaging. Cosmetic Packaging Machinery Market Report. Retrieved from: https://www.towardspackaging.com/insights/cosmetic-packaging-machinery-market-sizing

5. Towards Packaging. Anti-Counterfeit Packaging Market Report. Retrieved from: https://www.towardspackaging.com/insights/anti-counterfeit-cosmetic-packaging-market-sizing