Korean Appliance Makers accelerate Entry into Beauty Device Market amid Home-care Trend

South Korea’s small and mid-sized home appliance manufacturers are increasingly diversifying into the beauty device sector to capitalize on the rising demand for home-care products. Leveraging existing expertise in high-frequency, ultrasound, and cooling technologies, companies like Cuckoo, At Home, and Chungho Nais are launching new skincare tools and expanding product lines. Cuckoo, known for its kitchen appliances, introduced the “Renature Medikin HI” skincare device following a 33% year-on-year increase in hair-care gadget sales. Meanwhile, At Home’s esthetic brand “Thome” achieved sell-out success with its “The Glow” droplet ultrasound device. These firms are combining technological capabilities with design innovation to differentiate themselves in a competitive market. Home appliances like Beauty Devices usually require KC Safety certification in order to be approved for import and sale in Korea.

Design and service offerings are emerging as key differentiators. Chungho Nais collaborated with Dongkook Pharmaceutical to launch the “Madeca Prime Ritual White Pearl Chungho Package,” inspired by the traditional gua sha technique. Ceragem, known for massage chairs, entered the beauty market with its “Cellunic MediSpa Pro,” available for trials at its wellness cafés, leading to a 27.4% increase in trial users in Q2 2025. Industry forecasts suggest the Korean beauty device market, which expanded from 500 billion won in 2018 to 1.6 trillion won in 2022, will surpass 3.4 trillion won by 2030 with annual growth over 10%. As interest in K-beauty grows globally, small and mid-sized manufacturers are expected to pursue international expansion, backed by South Korea’s strong technological reputation.

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South Korea opens Market to LEO Satellite Internet Services

South Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT has approved three cross-border agreements allowing low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite internet services to operate domestically. This includes Starlink Korea LLC’s arrangement with SpaceX and partnerships between Korean operators Hanwha Systems and KT SAT with Eutelsat’s OneWeb. The approvals clear the path for both Starlink and OneWeb to begin commercial operations as early as next month, pending final equipment certification under the country’s regulatory framework. Foreign telecommunications firms in Korea must form agreements with local license holders to legally offer services to end-users. Wireless reception equipment for low Earth orbit satellite services and radio equipment in general usually require KC EMC certification in order to be approved for import and sale in Korea.

The move marks a significant shift in South Korea’s telecommunications landscape, historically dominated by SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus, and aligns with national efforts to lead in 6G infrastructure. LEO satellite networks, such as Starlink’s over 7,100 satellites and OneWeb’s expanding constellation, provide high-speed, low-latency coverage especially valuable in remote or mobile environments. KT SAT, already operating the Mugunghwa geostationary satellite, and Hanwha Systems, which holds an 8.8% stake in OneWeb, are positioning themselves as key players in the evolving market. Emerging technologies like direct-to-cell and inter-satellite laser communications are also expected to transform the competitive dynamics, potentially challenging traditional terrestrial networks in select use cases.

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Hyundai expands Hydrogen Leadership with new Initium FCEV Concept

Hyundai Motor Co. has introduced its latest hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) concept, named Initium, signaling a major leap forward in its hydrogen mobility strategy. The new model, revealed at the Clearly Committed event held at Hyundai Motor Studio Goyang near Seoul, is expected to debut in production form in the first half of 2025. Serving as the successor to the Hyundai Nexo, the Initium aims to deliver over 650 kilometers of driving range and up to 150 kW in motor output. The crossover also incorporates a redesigned, spacious interior suited for family use and includes features like large hydrogen tanks and an FCEV-specific route planner to address range and refueling challenges. Products related to hydrogen energy systems and production usually require KGS certification in order to be approved for import and sale in Korea.

According to Hyundai, the Initium reflects nearly three decades of the company’s investment in hydrogen technology, beginning with its first hydrogen vehicle in 2000 and continuing through the launch of the mass-produced Tucson ix Fuel Cell in 2013 and the Nexo in 2018. The new concept will be showcased globally at both the Los Angeles Auto Show and Auto Guangzhou in November. The company emphasized that the Latin name “Initium” represents a new beginning in Hyundai’s vision of a sustainable hydrogen society. Hyundai also announced its recent acquisition of the fuel cell business from Hyundai Mobis to further accelerate hydrogen development. Collaboration with industry peer Toyota is also underway, as both companies aim to strengthen their leadership in hydrogen-powered mobility.

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Hyundai launches Next-Generation NEXO to advance Hydrogen Vehicle Market

At the 2025 Seoul Mobility Show, Hyundai Motor Co. introduced the completely redesigned NEXO, marking the first full model update of its fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) since 2018. The second-generation hydrogen SUV features a significantly enhanced fuel cell system and powertrain, which boosts both its power output and efficiency. Notably, the NEXO aims for a range of over 700 kilometers on a single five-minute refill—an advancement that addresses key concerns over electric vehicle charging duration and infrastructure limitations. Many products and components used for the production of hydrogen powered vehicles usually require KGS certification in order to be approved for import and sale in Korea.

Performance upgrades include a 190 kW motor—up from 135 kW—and a battery output doubled to 80 kW. Its fuel cell stack now generates 110 kW, a 16% increase, and a larger hydrogen tank enhances storage capacity and overall efficiency. Built on the INITIUM concept, the new NEXO also adopts Hyundai’s “Art of Steel” design with HTWO signature lighting, aligning with the company’s hydrogen branding. Interior features include sustainable materials like recycled PET fabric and bio-processed leather, as well as a 12.3-inch infotainment system, generative AI voice control, and over-the-air update capability. Safety upgrades consist of nine airbags, hydrogen tank protection, advanced driver assistance systems, and structural enhancements. Available in six colors, the SUV offers up to 993 liters of cargo space and is expected to be priced similarly to its predecessor, around 69 million won. Hyundai’s continued investment in hydrogen technology, including the integration of Hyundai Mobis Co.’s fuel cell business, reinforces its leading position alongside Toyota in the global hydrogen vehicle market.

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Hyosung validates Hydrogen Generator Performance in Harsh Weather Conditions

Hyosung Heavy Industries has confirmed the year-round operational reliability of its 1MW hydrogen engine generator, following successful performance trials under extreme cold and heat. The unit, first installed at the Yongyeon plant of Hyosung Chemical in Ulsan in April last year, completed 1,400 hours of continuous operation during winter and had previously demonstrated consistent performance during high summer temperatures. It is the first commercialized hydrogen engine generator of its kind worldwide. Hydrogen systems related products usually require KGS factory registration in order to be approved for import and sale in Korea.

In addition to passing extreme weather trials, the generator has cleared safety reviews by the Korea Gas Safety Corporation and the Korea Electrical Safety Corporation, receiving authorization for commercial operation. Designed to operate solely on hydrogen, the system produces zero carbon emissions and offers flexible operation to complement intermittent renewable sources such as solar and wind. While most global competitors remain in testing stages, Hyosung is the only manufacturer to have completed real-world validation. The company aims to further develop its hydrogen combustion technology to strengthen its position in the eco-friendly energy market.

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Doosan targets Korean Hydrogen Bus Market with new Models pending KGS Approval

HyAxiom Motors, a subsidiary of Doosan Fuel Cell, plans to launch two new hydrogen bus models in the first half of the year, pending approval from South Korea’s Ministry of Environment and the Korea Gas Safety Corporation (KGS). This move is expected to make Doosan the second player in the Korean hydrogen bus market after Hyundai Motor Group and represents a strategic effort to establish a strong foothold in the growing hydrogen-powered vehicle sector. The upcoming models include an 11-meter low-floor city bus and a high-floor intercity coach. Hydrogen motors-related products usually require KGS certification in order to be approved for import and sale in Korea.

HyAxiom Motors was founded in 2022 by the Doosan Group as a fully owned subsidiary of HyAxiom, the U.S.-based arm of Doosan Fuel Cell. The company’s market entry aligns with the government’s goal of increasing the number of hydrogen buses from the current 1,700 units to 21,000 by 2030. Hydrogen buses offer advantages such as driving ranges exceeding 500 kilometers and short refueling times, making them especially suitable for commercial applications. Doosan Fuel Cell also aims to improve its financial performance, having reported an operating loss of 1.7 billion won last year. With a hydrogen bus priced around 700 million won, the company sees this segment as a potential driver of profitability. At the group level, Doosan is also reinforcing its hydrogen strategy by integrating the Fuel Cell Power BU into Doosan Mobility Innovation.

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JD.com Launches Korean Logistics Hubs – KCs Certification Required for Equipment

JD.com, one of China’s leading e-commerce giants, has established its own logistics centers in South Korea for the first time. With facilities located in Incheon and Icheon, the company will now offer third-party logistics and same-day delivery services to business clients in Seoul and parts of Gyeonggi Province. The Icheon center specializes in pet-related products, while the Incheon hub serves as an integrated logistics base for global consumer brands and Korean beauty product exporters. In tandem, JD.com has signed last-mile delivery agreements with major Korean logistics firms CJ Logistics and Lotte Global Logistics, signaling a potential shift from a B2B model to full-scale direct-to-consumer retail operations in South Korea. A lot of logistic center equipment like lifts, robots, conveyor belts, etc. usually require KCs certification in order to be approved for import and sale in Korea.

This marks the first instance of a major Chinese online retailer independently operating logistics infrastructure in Korea—a strategic move interpreted as a full-fledged entry into the Korean market. JD.com’s expansion comes amid rapid growth by Chinese platforms like AliExpress and Temu, who have been attracting Korean consumers through ultra-low pricing and aggressive marketing. According to Seoul-based app market analytics firm WiseApp, AliExpress’s transaction value in Korea nearly tripled from 2022 to 2024, while Temu’s surged almost twentyfold within a single year. JD.com’s arrival is expected to intensify the ongoing “C-commerce” wave, which is reshaping the Korean e-commerce landscape. Facing slowing domestic growth, JD.com and its Chinese peers such as Alibaba and PDD Holdings are accelerating their global expansion, with Korea seen as a key market.

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Hyundai Expands Hydrogen Strategy with New Ulsan Fuel Cell Plant

Hyundai Motor Co. has announced plans to construct a next-generation hydrogen fuel cell plant within its existing automotive complex in Ulsan, approximately 300 kilometers south of Seoul. The decision, made in coordination with its labor union, is part of the company’s broader strategy to consolidate its hydrogen fuel cell operations and accelerate the development of a comprehensive hydrogen energy value chain. Mass production at the new facility is scheduled to begin in 2028. Once operational, the plant will become the world’s second-largest hydrogen fuel cell manufacturing site, following Hyundai’s HTWO Guangzhou plant in China. Fuel cell systems from the Chungju facility, formerly operated by Hyundai Mobis, are currently used to manufacture the NEXO hydrogen fuel cell vehicle in Ulsan. Certain equipment incolved in fuel cell production like pressure vessel and hydrogen systems in general usually require KGS certification in order to be approved for import and sale in South Korea.

This expansion reflects Hyundai Motor’s commitment to scaling up hydrogen infrastructure beyond automotive applications. Under the HTWO brand, the company aims to cover the entire hydrogen ecosystem, from production to consumption, and presented this ambition at CES 2024. Hyundai has set a goal to increase its annual hydrogen usage to 3 million tons by 2035. A recent visit by Hyundai executives to Japan signals an effort to establish cross-border hydrogen cooperation. The firm is also preparing to diversify its hydrogen-related business portfolio, pending shareholder approval. Despite weak global demand for hydrogen energy, Hyundai remains one of the leading hydrogen FCEV producers alongside Toyota, and it plans to launch the INITIUM model in the first half of this year as a successor to the NEXO.

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Enhanced Safety Measures rolled out in Samsung SDI’s new EV Battery Design

Samsung SDI has finalized the development of its “No-Thermal Propagation” (No-TP) technology aimed at preventing the spread of heat in electric vehicle (EV) batteries—a leading cause of battery-related fires. Announced through the company’s newsroom on February 18, the technology incorporates specialized safety materials and a cooling plate to isolate thermal events at the cell level, thereby extending battery life and usability by allowing for localized component replacement. A proprietary software tool, the Thermal Propagation Calculator (TPc), plays a key role by quantifying thermal propagation risks and supporting engineers in optimizing battery design from the earliest development phases. The Korean government has already declared plans to introduce EV Battery Certification and Tracking. Other Battery types usually require KC Safety certification in order to be approved for import and sale in Korea.

The No-TP approach is applicable not only to individual cells but also to modules and packs, with TPc-optimized features already embedded in Samsung SDI’s latest battery products. Innovations such as insulation layers between cells and prismatic battery designs using a stacking method for electrode plates further enhance safety by reducing internal pressure and enabling multidirectional gas dispersion during malfunctions. These measures aim to mitigate gas accumulation and limit thermal incidents. Samsung SDI reaffirmed its commitment to developing high-capacity, reliable battery systems that meet evolving safety standards in the EV sector.

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POSCO Future M launches Domestic Production of Spherical Graphite

POSCO Future M, a prominent South Korean manufacturer of battery materials, has announced plans to produce spherical graphite domestically in a significant shift aimed at reducing reliance on Chinese imports. The company will establish a new subsidiary, provisionally named Carbon New Materials Co., to oversee the production process. This strategic move is supported by an investment of around 400 billion won (over $275 million), recently approved by the board, though the final plant location has yet to be confirmed. This initiative marks the first major localization effort in Korea for the production of spherical graphite, which is currently sourced exclusively from China. POSCO Future M aims to integrate this material into its anode production at the Sejong plant, reinforcing control over a key stage in the battery manufacturing chain.
Production equipment, as used in the production of battery anode materials, often requires KCs certification in order to be approved for import and sale in Korea.

The company’s move comes amid heightened concerns over supply security due to potential Chinese export restrictions and geopolitical instability. POSCO Future M’s domestic production strategy not only aims to secure its supply chain but also aligns with efforts to qualify for U.S. Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) incentives.

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