Shoppers are turning to online purchases of Korean beauty products as tariffs loom, driving sales to new heights.
K-beauty Boom: Americans Stock Up as Tariffs Approach
K-beauty Boom: Americans Stock Up as Tariffs Approach
U.S. consumers rush to buy Korean cosmetics amid fears of impending tariffs.
In a surge of consumer activity, American beauty enthusiasts are stocking up on Korean cosmetic and skin-care products as the threat of tariffs grows. Esther Lee, a marketing agency owner from Los Angeles, recently made a significant purchase of a year’s supply of Korean eyeliners and sunscreens after hearing about a potential price spike driven by tariffs on South Korean imports announced by President Trump. This frantic buying behavior is reflected across many U.S. households as shoppers brace themselves for possible price increases.
With influencers sharing their bulk purchases on platforms like TikTok, the sentiment among consumers seems to lean towards uncertainty, yet a determination to keep their beloved K-beauty products. The trend began in April when initial tariff plans emerged, but the subsequent deferment for negotiations spurred a new regard for the products, now further threatened by a looming 25% tax on almost all South Korean and Japanese goods.
The K-beauty sector is witnessing a remarkable upswing, buoyed by the interconnected rise of Korean pop culture. South Korean cosmetics exports have already hit a record $5.5 billion in the first half of the year, which showcases a 15% growth compared to last year. Industry leader Amorepacific also noted a significant 40% rise in their overseas sales, highlighting the robust health of the K-beauty market amidst tariff uncertainty.
With influencers sharing their bulk purchases on platforms like TikTok, the sentiment among consumers seems to lean towards uncertainty, yet a determination to keep their beloved K-beauty products. The trend began in April when initial tariff plans emerged, but the subsequent deferment for negotiations spurred a new regard for the products, now further threatened by a looming 25% tax on almost all South Korean and Japanese goods.
The K-beauty sector is witnessing a remarkable upswing, buoyed by the interconnected rise of Korean pop culture. South Korean cosmetics exports have already hit a record $5.5 billion in the first half of the year, which showcases a 15% growth compared to last year. Industry leader Amorepacific also noted a significant 40% rise in their overseas sales, highlighting the robust health of the K-beauty market amidst tariff uncertainty.
