Because I decided to build a new cosmetic brand appealing to a global audience, I had to decide what could possibly be the first market for my products. I live in Seoul, South Korea, and it is the most competitive cosmetic market in the world. There are too many brands here, so it is impossible to stand out without a large financial investment, like a one-million-dollar budget. So I turned my eyes towards the world.
I thought the English-speaking market could be a potential option, even though my English ability is very poor. But at least I can read and understand. The U.S. is a really big and promising market, but I know every big Korean company is jumping into the U.S. market. So, I decided to go to India as my first target market.
I don’t know why, I was familiar with India since I was young. When I was in a girl-scout I decided to costume of india, also my husband major is Hindi. and rationally, India is really big and young country and I heard K-trends is booming there right now.
I have had a vague plan since few years ago, I went to the Delhi, India already last year. I was invited for AI lecturer – which was the very first stage of AI tool was trending, so they find someone who taught the basic AI tool. So I could get free flight ticket and got a accommodations from there.
I don’t know why, but I have felt familiar with India since I was young. When I was in the Girl Scouts, I decided to wear an Indian costume. Also, my husband’s major is Hindi. Rationally speaking, India is a really big and young country, and I heard that K-trends are booming there right now.
I have had a vague plan for a few years, and I went to Delhi, India last year. I was invited as an AI lecturer when AI tools were just starting to trend, so they were looking for someone to teach the basics. So I could get a free flight ticket and got accommodations from them.
And there in India, I gathered four girls in their 20s and conducted some interviews. I wanted to know about their skincare routines, shopping habits, favorite places, and what they do in their free time. I was so pleased and felt really connected—even though we are far apart in terms of geography, culture, and climate. At least all four girls wanted dewy, glowing, radiant, smooth, and clean skin, just like Korean girls do.
I get lost easily while walking this path. In fact, I haven’t actually done anything yet. I wonder why I hesitate so much and keep dragging my feet.
Every day, I hesitate to go back to my company, where I have belonged for many years. And I feel a fear of being isolated from my community and losing everything I have built, even though it is just a small handful.
I am writing this blog because I want to face my fears and overcome them.