(And What You Should Know Instead)

Korea has become the go-to destination for beauty manufacturing — and for good reason. From advanced R&D and innovative ingredients to high production quality and global trend leadership, Korean manufacturers are powering some of the world’s most exciting skincare brands.

But with popularity comes assumptions — and we’ve heard plenty of misconceptions from brand founders, estheticians, retailers, and even established beauty entrepreneurs. As MAYK, a global skincare manufacturing platform based in Korea, we’re here to set the record straight.

Let’s bust 5 of the most common myths about manufacturing cosmetics in Korea.

1. “You need to order 10,000+ units to work with a Korean manufacturer.”

The truth: While that may be true for some large-scale manufacturers, it’s no longer the standard across the board.

At MAYK, we work with small-batch-friendly manufacturers who support indie brands with MOQs starting at 1,000 units per SKU. This makes custom formulation (OEM) accessible even to solo entrepreneurs, estheticians, and boutique beauty brands looking to launch with intention.

Why this matters: You don’t need a massive inventory or six-figure investment to get started. With the right partner, you can bring your product to market strategically — testing, validating, and scaling with confidence.

2. “All Korean products look the same — it’s hard to stand out.”

The truth: This misconception usually stems from brands working with ODM (ready-made) products, which cannot be customized beyond the label and do not allow premium packaging upgrades. Because these formulas are shared among multiple brands, they tend to look and feel similar — especially when used with standard packaging.

But when you go the OEM (custom formulation) route, everything changes.

With custom formulation, you can:

• Create a unique texture, finish, or skin feel

• Choose active ingredients that align with your brand story or target customer

• Design fully customized packaging — from glass droppers to airless pumps to sustainable tubes

This is where your product truly becomes your own — built from the ground up with your brand identity in mind.

Tip: If standing out is a key part of your strategy, OEM is the path forward. ODM is great for quick entry, but limited in differentiation. With custom manufacturing, your brand isn’t just another label — it becomes the innovator.

3. “You have to speak Korean.”

The truth: Not anymore.

Platforms like MAYK have changed that by offering English-speaking support, with transparent pricing, project management, and guided decision-making.

What we provide at MAYK:

• Clear process and pricing breakdowns

• Support with formulation, design, production, and shipping

• Communication that’s responsive and beginner-friendly

This means you don’t need to navigate a language barrier or figure out cultural business norms on your own.

4. “If it’s made in Korea, it must deliver instant results.”

The truth: One of the biggest misconceptions we hear is that skincare products made in Korea will produce immediate, dramatic results. But that expectation doesn’t actually align with the core philosophy behind Korean skincare.

In Korea, skincare is viewed as a daily maintenance ritual, not a quick fix. The goal is to support the skin’s natural balance through gentle, consistent care — not to aggressively strip, resurface, or force instant changes. As a result, Korean formulations are typically:

• Gentle and non-irritating, even for sensitive skin

• Designed to work over time, with regular use

• Built around barrier support, hydration, and skin health, rather than quick-acting actives that may cause irritation or downtime

So while Korean R&D is known for smart, effective formulations — using actives like niacinamide, panthenol, and postbiotics — it’s important to understand that true results take consistency and patience.

If you're hoping to create a product that "removes eyebags in seconds" or "lifts skin instantly," cosmetics — Korean or otherwise — likely aren't the right category.

What Korean manufacturing can help you create: A safe, effective, and cosmetically elegant product that improves visible skin health over time — rooted in a skincare culture that values prevention, balance, and long-term care.

Tip: When working with a formulator (like the ones at MAYK), build around realistic claims and performance expectations. We’ll help you develop something people will love and trust — because it works the way good skincare should: gently, consistently, and over time.

5. “If it’s made in Korea, it automatically complies with international regulations.”

The truth: While Korea maintains high standards for safety, ingredient quality, and manufacturing practices, global compliance still depends on where you plan to sell — and what type of product you're launching.

Here are a few key examples:

• EU: Requires a full Product Information File (PIF), safety assessment, and a designated Responsible Person in the EU

• US: Products must avoid unapproved drug claims (e.g. "treats eczema," "removes wrinkles instantly") unless they fall under OTC regulations

• Canada: Some skincare products may be regulated as Natural Health Products (NHPs) rather than cosmetics, depending on claims and function

• Australia: Sunscreens are regulated as therapeutic goods and require TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration) certification

Final Thoughts: Build Smart, Build Real

Manufacturing your skincare product in Korea can be an exciting, strategic move — but success starts with the right mindset and expectations.

Korean manufacturers offer incredible strengths: innovative formulations, high production standards, and a deep understanding of skin science. But no lab — in Korea or anywhere else — can deliver instant miracles or bypass the realities of cosmetic regulation. The most successful brands we work with are those that build thoughtfully, stay grounded in science, and align their product ideas with what’s actually possible.

At MAYK, we’re here to help you do just that. Whether you're launching your very first serum or scaling a product line globally, we offer honest guidance, scalable manufacturing, and a platform designed to support real, sustainable beauty businesses — not hype.

👉 Ready to take the first step? Leave an inquiry with us and let’s talk about what’s truly possible for your brand.