The global rise of K-beauty just hit a new milestone—and this time, it’s historic.

Korean beauty tech company APR has officially been named to TIME’s prestigious “100 Most Influential Companies in the World”, becoming the first-ever K-beauty brand to achieve this recognition.

Even more impressively, APR is the only Korean company selected this year, marking a defining moment for the global expansion of K-beauty.


Standing Among Global Titans

APR was included in the “Titans” category, reserved for companies that dominate their industries. This puts the brand alongside global powerhouses such as:

  • NVIDIA
  • Google
  • SpaceX
  • Meta
  • Saudi Aramco

Being listed in this category signals that APR is no longer just a rising brand—it’s now considered a global industry leader.


“A Global K-Beauty Phenom”

TIME described APR as a “global K-beauty phenom”, highlighting its role in driving the next wave of worldwide beauty trends.

Key achievements include:

  • 💰 Over $1 billion in annual revenue (2025)
  • 🌎 80% of sales generated overseas
  • 🚀 Rapid expansion across the U.S. and global markets

This level of international dominance shows how K-beauty is evolving from a trend into a mainstream global force.


Medicube’s Viral Success in the U.S.

APR’s flagship brand Medicube played a major role in this achievement.

  • Massive popularity on TikTok
  • Endorsed by global influencers like:
    • Alix Earle
    • Hailey Bieber
    • Kylie Jenner

These endorsements helped turn Medicube into a must-have skincare brand among Gen Z consumers worldwide.


Expanding Beyond Skincare

APR is not stopping at skincare. The company recently launched new scalp-care and hair products, signaling a strategic move into the haircare market.

This diversification positions APR to become a full-spectrum beauty tech company, rather than just a skincare brand.


A First for Korean Beauty

While Korean giants like:

  • Samsung
  • Hyundai Motor Company
  • Kia
  • Hanwha

have appeared on TIME’s list before, this is the first time a Korean beauty company has made it.

That makes APR’s achievement not just a company milestone—but a turning point for the entire K-beauty industry.

KOREA FBI Editor’s Comment

APR’s recognition by TIME proves something bigger than one company’s success—it confirms that K-beauty is entering its “global dominance” era.

From TikTok virality to billion-dollar exports, brands like APR are reshaping how the world sees beauty. And if this momentum continues, K-beauty won’t just follow global trends—it will define them.


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