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
- 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.


