South Korean expert sees global potential for Bangladeshi beauty products

South Korean cosmetics expert Dr Kim Junho has expressed optimism about the potential of Bangladeshi beauty products to enter international markets, by focusing on quality standards, committing research and developing product varieties.

He made the remarks at a seminar at skin’O’s headquarters in Dhaka, according a press release on Wednesday.

Dr Kim said Korean beauty products had gained widespread popularity worldwide. 

The global beauty and personal care products market size was valued at $543.1 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow from $580 billion in 2026, according to Grand View Research.

He described that the Bangladesh’s home grown Skin’O was developing products inspired by Korean beauty standards, creating opportunities for the Bangladeshi brand to reach overseas markets.

Dr Kim led a two-hour discussion on strengthening research and development (R&D) in Bangladesh’s cosmetics industry.

He highlighted the importance of product quality, scientific research, innovation and compliance with international standards.

He said that the Bangladeshi cosmetics and beauty products industry has the potential to contribute significantly to export earnings in the same way the ready-made garment (RMG) sector has been doing.

“Realising this potential would require stronger domestic manufacturing capabilities, improved product quality, greater investment in research and the development of products tailored to international market demands, he said.

With adequate investment in research, quality control and product development, Bangladeshi beauty brands could tap new export opportunities, he also said.

Other speakers at the seminar included Sarwar Kamal, chief executive officer of Beaarth; Faisal Al Zaber, chief financial officer; Ahsan Ud Doula, director of Coslab; and Newaz Nasim, head of business development.