South Korea’s DongKook Pharmaceutical has acquired ReBom Cosmetics, a company specializing in cosmetics research and development as well as exports. DongKook will purchase 96,600 shares of ReBom Cosmetics for 30.6 billion KRW (approximately US$23 million), securing a 53.6% stake in the company. This acquisition is part of DongKook’s strategy to diversify its business portfolio.
DongKook Pharmaceutical CEO Jun-ho Song anticipates synergies from the acquisition: “DongKook’s expertise in natural extract technology and herbal medicine development merges with ReBom Cosmetics’ research and manufacturing know-how.” He added, “We will develop competitive products to showcase the excellence of K-beauty, not only in Korea but globally.”
South Korea’s DongKook Pharmaceutical acquires natural extracts expert ReBom Cosmetics. ReBom, founded in 2010, is an original design manufacturing company (ODM) that serves over 150 clients and exports to 34 partners in 26 countries.
DongKook Pharmaceutical, established in 1968, entered the cosmetics market in 2015 with the launch of its derma-cosmetic brand, Centellian24. This brand is known for its core ingredient, a titrated extract of centella asiatica, reflecting DongKook’s 50 years of expertise in developing plant-based raw materials.
With this acquisition, DongKook aims to reduce production costs by manufacturing its cosmetics in-house, rather than relying on Kolmar Korea, which previously produced its Centellian24 products.
ReBom Cosmetics is noted for its high production quality, having received Current Good Manufacturing Practice approval in 2016, Cosmetic Good Manufacturing Practice (ISO 22716) certification in 2017, and Halal certification in 2019.
South Korean companies continue to expand successfully in China, as evidenced by Cosmax’s recent announcement of a new headquarters in Shanghai’s Xinzhuang Industrial Park, aimed at integrating research, production, and marketing for its cosmetics ODM business.
Globally, the spotlight on K-beauty is intensifying. A recent report by Landing International highlighted that North Americans are increasingly drawn to K-beauty products, driven largely by mothers seeking new beauty solutions. The Los Angeles-based firm analyzed the influence of K-beauty on U.S. consumers and identified significant growth opportunities for retailers.
