Let’s briefly explore Korean skincare brands. As we compile information on numerous brands, there might be some inaccuracies. Please inform us via email or comments if you notice any errors, and we will review and make necessary corrections.

1. Sulwhasoo

History: Founded in 1966, Sulwhasoo is a luxury brand known for incorporating traditional Korean herbal medicine into its products.
Philosophy: Focuses on holistic beauty, harnessing the balancing properties of Korean herbal ingredients.
Current Situation: Globally recognized, especially for its anti-aging products.
Representative Product: First Care Activating Serum, known for its skin balancing and rejuvenating properties.

2. Laneige

History: Launched in 1994 by Amore Pacific, Laneige specializes in advanced water science technology to hydrate the skin.
Philosophy: Aims to deliver crystal-clear and hydrated skin through the power of water.
Current Situation: Widely popular in Asia and has a growing presence in the West.
Representative Product: Water Sleeping Mask, acclaimed for its overnight hydration capabilities.

3. Dr. Jart+

History: Founded in 2004, Dr. Jart+ combines dermatological science and art to create innovative skincare.
Philosophy: Focuses on creating high-performance skincare formulations with a focus on dermatological research.
Current Situation: Known for its Cicapair and Ceramidin lines, with a strong international presence.
Representative Product: Cicapair Tiger Grass Color Correcting Treatment, praised for its redness-reducing formula.

4. COSRX

History: Established in 2013, COSRX is derived from the words “cosmetics” and “prescription.”
Philosophy: Committed to creating affordable, high-quality skincare solutions for various skin concerns.
Current Situation: Gained a cult following for its straightforward and effective formulations.
Representative Product: Acne Pimple Master Patch, widely used for treating acne spots.

5. Missha

History: Started in 2000 as an online platform before expanding into a global brand.
Philosophy: Known for its philosophy of quality products at affordable prices.
Current Situation: Offers a wide range of skincare and makeup, famous for its Time Revolution line.
Representative Product: Time Revolution The First Treatment Essence, known for its skin rejuvenating properties.

6. Etude House

History: Founded in 1985, Etude House is known for its playful and youthful packaging and products.
Philosophy: Promotes fun and easy beauty experiences with a princess-like concept.
Current Situation: Popular among younger consumers, with a strong presence in Asia.
Representative Product: Moistfull Collagen Cream, loved for its hydrating and firming effects.

7. The Face Shop

History: Launched in 2003, it blends science and nature to create its skincare and makeup products.
Philosophy: Rooted in nature, it uses natural ingredients from around the world.
Current Situation: Has a wide international footprint, known for its nature-based products.
Representative Product: Rice Water Bright Light Cleansing Oil, popular for its gentle and effective cleansing properties.

8. Skinfood

History: Established in 1957, Skinfood bases its product formulations around food ingredients.
Philosophy: Believes in nourishing the skin with the enriching power of food.
Current Situation: Known for using unique ingredients like black sugar, royal honey, and egg white.
Representative Product: Black Sugar Mask Wash Off, acclaimed for its exfoliating and softening skin benefits.

9. Klairs

History: Founded in 2009, focused on developing simple but effective products for sensitive skin.
Philosophy: Committed to no harsh ingredients, cruelty-free practices, and eco-friendly packaging.
Current Situation: Gained international recognition for its gentle formulations.
Representative Product: Supple Preparation Facial Toner, known for its hydrating and soothing properties.

10. Pyunkang Yul

History: Originating from the Pyunkang Oriental Medicine Clinic, this brand focuses on minimalist skincare.
Philosophy: Uses traditional Korean medicine to create products that strengthen the skin’s ability to heal itself.
Current Situation: Appreciated for its simple, effective, and gentle formulations.
Representative Product: Essence Toner, famous for its intense hydration with minimal ingredients.

11. Banila Co

History: Founded in 2006, known for its approachable skincare and makeup products.
Philosophy: Aims to provide a seamless bridge between skincare and makeup, with a focus on cleansing.
Current Situation: Popular among young adults for its trendy and affordable products.
Representative Product: Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm, a favorite for its effective and gentle makeup removal.

12. Belif

History: Launched in 2010, Belif combines traditional herbal processing methods with modern skin science.
Philosophy: Committed to honesty, simplicity, and transparency, focusing on true herbal ingredients.
Current Situation: Known for its straightforward and effective formulations, without synthetic additives.
Representative Product: The True Cream Aqua Bomb, a lightweight gel-cream loved for its hydrating properties.

13. Hera

History: A luxury brand under Amorepacific, launched in 1995, known for its sophisticated and high-performance products.
Philosophy: Merges innovative skincare technology with the latest beauty trends, catering to modern women.
Current Situation: Holds a strong presence in the high-end beauty market, with a focus on anti-aging and skin perfection.
Representative Product: UV Mist Cushion, an iconic cushion foundation that offers hydration, high SPF, and flawless coverage.

14. Mamonde

History: Part of the Amorepacific Group, Mamonde was established in 1991, inspired by flowers.
Philosophy: Utilizes floral extracts in its products, believing in the healing and beautifying power of flowers.
Current Situation: Offers a range of skincare and makeup, popular in both Korea and internationally.
Representative Product: Rose Water Toner, widely used for its soothing and hydrating effects.

15. Iope

History: Launched by Amorepacific in 1996, Iope focuses on bio technology in skincare.
Philosophy: Aims to provide scientifically-backed solutions to skin concerns, with a focus on innovation.
Current Situation: Renowned for its research in skincare science, particularly in anti-aging.
Representative Product: Air Cushion, known for its natural coverage and skin-enhancing benefits.

16. Huxley

History: A relatively new brand, launched with a focus on harnessing the benefits of prickly pear seed oil from the Sahara.
Philosophy: “Secret of the Sahara” is its tagline, emphasizing protection and nourishment in harsh environments.
Current Situation: Gaining international acclaim for its unique ingredients and luxurious textures.
Representative Product: Secret of Sahara Oil; Light and More, a lightweight, antioxidant-rich facial oil.

17. Moonshot

History: Created by YG Entertainment in 2014, known for its trendy and innovative makeup products.
Philosophy: Inspired by K-pop culture, it aims to bring bold, experimental beauty trends to the mainstream.
Current Situation: Popular among younger consumers looking for high-impact makeup with skincare benefits.
Representative Product: Micro Settingfit Cushion, celebrated for its long-lasting coverage and lightweight feel.

18. Primera

History: An Amorepacific brand that focuses on the power of seeds and sprouts, launched in 2010.
Philosophy: Believes in the life energy of seeds, using germination technology in its products.
Current Situation: Known for its eco-friendly practices and clean, effective skincare solutions.
Representative Product: Alpine Berry Water Cream, a hydrating moisturizer with antioxidant-rich alpine berries.

19. Goodal

History: A skincare brand that combines traditional Korean fermentation techniques with modern technology.
Philosophy: Focuses on the benefits of fermented ingredients for deeper absorption and enhanced efficacy.
Current Situation: Appreciated for its gentle, effective products that suit a variety of skin types.
Representative Product: Green Tangerine Vita C Dark Spot Serum, noted for its brightening and spot-fading capabilities.

21. TonyMoly

History: Founded in 2006, known for its fun packaging and innovative products.
Philosophy: Combines high-quality ingredients with unique designs to create an enjoyable skincare experience.
Representative Product: I’m Real Sheet Masks, offering a variety of targeted solutions with natural ingredients.

22. Nature Republic

History: Launched in 2009, focuses on natural ingredients sourced from around the world.
Philosophy: Advocates for the use of natural ingredients for healthy, revitalized skin.
Representative Product: Soothing & Moisture Aloe Vera 92% Soothing Gel, known for its versatility and hydration.

23. Too Cool For School

History: Established in 2009, combines artistry and innovative skincare.
Philosophy: Merges education with beauty, encouraging creative expression through its products.
Representative Product: Egg Mellow Cream, a 5-in-1 firming moisturizer with collagen fibers and egg yolk extract.

24. Innisfree

History: Launched in 2000, emphasizes natural ingredients from Jeju Island.
Philosophy: Promotes eco-friendly and sustainable beauty practices.
Representative Product: Green Tea Seed Serum, infused with Jeju green tea extracts for hydration.

25. Some By Mi

History: Gained popularity rapidly with its effective solutions for troubled skin.
Philosophy: Focuses on mild and natural ingredients to improve skin health.
Representative Product: AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner, known for its exfoliating and healing properties.

26. J.One

History: Created by Korean actress Ha Ji-Won, the brand is known for its innovative formulas.
Philosophy: Provides multifunctional and convenient skincare solutions.
Representative Product: Jelly Pack, a multitasking primer and mask with firming and hydrating benefits.

27. Klavuu

History: A luxury brand that combines natural pearls with marine and botanical extracts.
Philosophy: Focuses on the brightening and hydrating properties of pearls.
Representative Product: Pure Pearlsation Divine Pearl Cleansing Oil, known for its deep cleansing and nourishing effects.

28. Thank You Farmer

History: Founded with the intent to provide honest and sincere skincare solutions.
Philosophy: Believes in the power of natural ingredients and balanced formulations for healthy skin.
Representative Product: Sun Project Light Sun Essence, a lightweight sunscreen with natural ingredients.

29. Benton

History: Named after the movie “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” the brand aims to restore skin back to its youthful, healthy state.
Philosophy: Utilizes natural preservatives and skin-friendly ingredients.
Representative Product: Snail Bee High Content Essence, known for its healing and moisturizing properties.

30. Holika Holika

History: Established in 2010, known for its eye-catching packaging and innovative products.
Philosophy: Aims to provide fun and practical cosmetic solutions.
Representative Product: Aloe 99% Soothing Gel, a multi-use gel for soothing and hydrating the skin.

31. Peach & Lily

History: Founded by Alicia Yoon in 2012, it curates and creates products based on Korean beauty philosophies.
Philosophy: Advocates for a gentle approach to achieving a radiant, healthy complexion.
Representative Product: Glass Skin Refining Serum, known for its pore-refining and hydrating capabilities.

32. Heimish

History: Launched in 2016, focuses on clean, simple, and effective products.
Philosophy: Emphasizes individual beauty and a minimalist skincare routine.
Representative Product: All Clean Balm, a gentle cleansing balm that removes makeup and impurities.

33. Make P:rem

History: Utilizes Nordic and Scandinavian philosophies in its skincare approach, focusing on functional, simple products.
Philosophy: Blends innovative technology with natural ingredients for practical and effective skincare.
Representative Product: Safe Me. Relief Moisture Cleansing Foam, known for its gentle and hydrating cleansing properties.

34. Blithe

History: Known for its anti-pollution skincare products, protecting the skin from environmental stressors.
Philosophy: Focuses on innovative solutions for urban skin concerns.
Representative Product: Tundra Chaga Pressed Serum, a serum and moisturizer hybrid with antioxidant-rich ingredients.

35. Dr. Oracle

History: A dermatological brand founded by a group of dermatologists, focusing on acne and sensitive skin solutions.
Philosophy: Combines medical expertise with innovative skincare technologies.
Representative Product: A-Thera Tea Tree Peeling Sticks, designed for targeted treatment of acne and blemishes.

36. Elizavecca

History: Gained fame with its quirky packaging and effective products, especially the use of pig collagen.
Philosophy: Blends fun with functionality in skincare, utilizing high-quality ingredients.
Representative Product: Carbonated Bubble Clay Mask, known for its deep-cleansing and pore-purifying properties.

37. A’Pieu

History: An offshoot of Missha, A’Pieu is geared towards younger consumers with its affordable and gentle formulations.
Philosophy: Focuses on simple and mild ingredients suitable for sensitive skin.
Representative Product: Madecassoside Cream, known for its soothing and repairing properties.

38. Acwell

History: Combines traditional Korean medicine with modern skincare science.
Philosophy: Emphasizes pH-balanced formulations for healthy skin.
Representative Product: Licorice pH Balancing Cleansing Toner, popular for its brightening and soothing effects.

39. Clio

History: Established in 1993, Clio is a professional makeup and skincare brand.
Philosophy: Known for innovative makeup products with a skincare focus.
Representative Product: Kill Cover Founwear Cushion, offers high coverage with a lightweight, skin-like finish.

40. Peripera

History: A sister brand of Clio, known for its playful and vibrant makeup products.
Philosophy: Targets younger consumers with its cute packaging and pigmented formulas.
Representative Product: Ink the Velvet Lip Tint, celebrated for its long-lasting and vivid color payoff.

41. The Saem

History: Launched in 2010, inspired by nature and eco-friendly principles.
Philosophy: Integrates global eco ingredients with Korean skincare technology.
Representative Product: Harakeke Root Essence, known for its intense hydration and soothing properties.

42. Isntree

History: Focuses on natural, safe, and clean ingredients, suitable for sensitive and troubled skin.
Philosophy: Advocates for transparency and honesty in skincare formulations.
Representative Product: Hyaluronic Acid Toner, popular for its deep hydration capabilities.

43. Atoclassic

History: Originates from a traditional Korean medicine clinic with over a century of history.
Philosophy: Uses classic Hanbang (traditional Korean herbal medicine) ingredients for modern skincare concerns.
Representative Product: Real Tonic Soothing Origin Essence, known for its calming and balancing properties.

The order of brands mentioned is not indicative of their quality or ranking. I have attempted to share insights on brands that I or those around me have experienced. The absence of a brand from this list does not imply that it is inferior.

If I think of any more brands, I will add them to the list.

Summary of Korean SkinCare Brand