Foreign tourists are increasingly adding pharmacies to their shopping itineraries, expanding beyond popular spots like Olive Young and Daiso. The rise in visitors seeking skin treatments in South Korea has led to a growing demand for post-treatment ointments and creams purchased at pharmacies.
According to a report released by BC Card on October 25, 2026, foreign spending on medical services in South Korea surged by 98% in the first half of this year compared to the same period last year. Notably, pharmacy spending skyrocketed by 1,176.9% during the same timeframe.
As the 'K-beauty' trend attracts more foreign tourists, their spending is shifting from beauty retail channels to specialized venues like dermatology clinics and pharmacies.
Products most sought after by foreign tourists at pharmacies include acne and scar ointments, regenerative creams, and cosmetics containing PDRN. Domestic pharmaceutical companies are responding by expanding their pharmacy-exclusive product lines.
PharmaResearch, known for its skin booster 'Rejuran,' is increasing its presence in the pharmacy market. According to its subsidiary, PharmaResearchMedicare, the pharmacy supply of the 'Rejuvi' brand grew by approximately 30% in the second quarter compared to the first quarter.
Rejuvi Neck Cream is the first PDRN topical agent sold in South Korea, having built its reputation over more than a decade in pharmacies. As pharmacies emerge as a new channel for beauty and wellness shopping, PharmaResearchMedicare continues to see growth in its 'Rejuvi' brand, which focuses on pharmacy channels.
The distribution scale of 'Rejuvi-S' in pharmacies is also expanding. This product is an ampoule with a high concentration of c-PDRN, a specialized ingredient from PharmaResearch, which helps soothe the skin and improve turnover.
According to the company, demand has consistently increased since its launch in November last year, with pharmacy shipments in May this year reaching approximately 41 times (4,168%) the initial launch volume.
A representative from PharmaResearchMedicare stated, "We will respond to a wide range of care needs, from daily home care to post-treatment care, through various categories of products including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and inner beauty."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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