1. Introduction to the text
The Korean beauty industry, often referred to as “K-beauty,” has gained immense popularity worldwide in recent years. What started as a local trend has now become a global phenomenon, with Korean skincare products and routines being embraced by people from diverse cultures. This meteoric rise can be attributed to Korea’s innovative approach to skincare, combining traditional ingredients with cutting-edge technology, and a focus on achieving a natural, glowing complexion.

2. Vocabulary

Korean word Romanization English meaning
피부관리 pibugwanri skincare
화장품 hwajangpum cosmetics
천연성분 chyeonseongsangbun natural ingredients
발효 balhyo fermentation
에센스 eseonseu essence
마스크팩 maseukeupak sheet mask
글로벌 geullobeol global
트렌드 teurendeu trend
혁신 hyeogsin innovation
뷰티라이프 byutiraipu beauty lifestyle

3. The main text in both Korean and English

한국의 화장품 산업은 최근 몇 년 동안 전 세계적으로 큰 인기를 끌고 있다.
The Korean cosmetics industry has gained immense global popularity in recent years.

이는 한국의 독특한 피부관리 철학과 혁신적인 제품 개발 때문이다.
This is due to Korea’s unique skincare philosophy and innovative product development.

한국 화장품 회사들은 전통적인 천연 성분과 최신 기술을 결합하여 새로운 제품을 만들어 내고 있다.
Korean cosmetic companies are combining traditional natural ingredients with the latest technology to create new products.

발효 공정을 통해 만들어진 에센스와 마스크팩 등의 제품이 큰 인기를 끌고 있다.
Products like fermented essences and sheet masks have become hugely popular.

한국의 뷰티 라이프스타일은 피부 건강과 자연스러운 아름다움을 중시한다.
Korean beauty lifestyle emphasizes skin health and natural beauty.

이러한 트렌드는 전 세계적으로 확산되어 한국 화장품 브랜드의 글로벌 시장 점유율이 높아지고 있다.
This trend has spread globally, increasing the global market share of Korean cosmetic brands.

한국 화장품 회사들은 혁신적인 제품과 마케팅 전략을 통해 세계 시장에서 주목받고 있다.
Korean cosmetic companies are gaining attention in the global market through innovative products and marketing strategies.

이는 한국 문화의 새로운 영향력을 보여주는 좋은 사례이다.
This is a good example of the new cultural influence of Korea.

한국의 피부관리 철학과 제품은 전 세계 소비자들에게 큰 인기를 끌고 있다.
Korean skincare philosophy and products are gaining immense popularity among global consumers.

이러한 성공은 한국 화장품 산업의 지속적인 성장과 혁신을 이끌 것으로 기대된다.
This success is expected to drive continued growth and innovation in the Korean cosmetics industry.

4. Reading comprehension questions
1. What are some key factors that contributed to the global popularity of Korean cosmetics?
2. How do Korean cosmetic companies combine traditional and modern elements in their products?
3. What specific Korean skincare products are mentioned as being popular globally?
4. According to the text, what does the Korean beauty lifestyle emphasize?
5. How has the success of Korean cosmetics impacted the cultural influence of Korea?

5. Cultural and historical notes
The rise of the Korean beauty industry is closely tied to the country’s cultural and historical traditions. Korea has a long history of using natural ingredients in skincare, such as ginseng, green tea, and fermented plants. These traditional ingredients have been combined with modern technologies like fermentation processes and advanced formulations to create innovative skincare products.