Kolmar Korea, a global cosmetics ODM company, is advancing its commitment to “clean beauty”. From advancing eco-friendly packaging solutions to innovating raw material sourcing, formulation development, and production processes, the company is aligning its ESG management with long-term competitiveness in the international market.
Among these initiatives, Kolmar Korea’s eco-friendly packaging has received particular attention. In 2020, the firm launched the paper tube, the first commercially available eco-friendly container in the beauty industry. This innovation reduced plastic use by 80% while being designed for convenient separation of paper and plastic. Despite its sustainable build, it is strong enough to endure over 50 kilograms of weight. In 2023, Kolmar Korea expanded this portfolio with the launch of the paper stick made from mineral paper, cutting plastic content by 86%. This product was engineered so that its layered design peels away neatly, enabling full use of the cosmetic inside and offering a practical yet sustainable solution. Most recently, in April, it launched the one-hand pump paper pack. Taking a cue from milk-carton designs and constructed fully from recyclable materials, it combines a pump function that advances user convenience and environmental value, addressing the increasing expectations of world consumers.
These green innovations have received international recognition. The paper tube and paper stick achieved what is described as a “grand slam” in the design industry by winning the IDEA, iF Design Award, and Red Dot Design Award.
The firm’s sustainability performance is also extended to formulation and raw material innovation. In 2022, Kolmar Korea led the way for an extraction process with sunflower, lingonberry, and starflower that cut carbon emissions by 83% while maximizing the efficacy of ingredients to a much greater extent. This innovation was utilized in its 2023 clean beauty sunscreen, which went on to earn the “Green Technology Product” certification of the Ministry of Environment.
Awards for these efforts have been notable. TIME magazine in 2024 placed Kolmar Korea No. 125 in its “World’s Best Companies for Sustainable Growth 2025” ranking, the sole K-Beauty company included in the category.
A Kolmar Korea spokesperson stated, “Developing eco-friendly technologies is not a short-term achievement but a core business strategy to enhance the sustainability of the entire industry. We will continue to demonstrate leadership as a company driving sustainable growth in the global beauty sector.”