South Korea plans to amend cosmetics rules in 2027 to let one specialist oversee several stores using AI and automated mixing equipment, the Ministry of Economy and Finance said in its own announcement.
Current rules require a cosmetics preparation specialist at each store, even where machines mix the products. The proposed change would allow specialists to supervise quality, hygiene and finished-product safety across multiple locations.
The ministry outlined the plans in its Policy Explained programme, episode nine, published on Nov. 4. The announcement described support for personalised cosmetics alongside changes to staffing requirements and equipment checks.
The technology measures skin conditions, analyses the results and selects a formula before automated equipment adds and mixes ingredients. It extends the service beyond choosing an existing product from a shelf to preparing cosmetics based on individual skin characteristics.
“AI analysis results do not guarantee the effectiveness of cosmetics,” the ministry said in remarks translated from Korean. The data used and the accuracy of the analysis and preparation process matter, alongside product quality and safety.
The staffing proposal would change how specialists supervise stores while retaining their responsibilities. Specialists would still need to check product quality, the upkeep of preparation equipment and the safety of finished cosmetics when machines mix the ingredients.
The government also plans guidelines for regular equipment inspections, calibration and assessments of whether machines perform as required. Those checks would cover the accuracy of measurements and equipment performance as the government changes the rules for automated preparation.
Beyond regulation, the government plans to reorganise a database containing skin information from 18 countries for use in training AI systems. The changes would help companies develop skin analysis tools and personalised solutions using data that reflect different skin characteristics.
The ministry also announced 7.2 billion won in support for joint research and development by groups of companies during 2026 and 2027. That support covers AI technology for quality and production processes that cosmetics companies can use together.
The proposed staffing change is not yet final, and buying automated equipment does not immediately allow a specialist to supervise multiple stores. The announcement gives a timetable for pursuing legal changes, rather than permission to begin operating under the proposed arrangement.
A trial exemption from existing rules runs from 2022 through December, the ministry said. The government plans to seek industry views before pursuing the amendments.
The final rules and detailed standards will determine which stores and machines qualify and when the changes take effect. Businesses preparing to offer the service need to check official guidance from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety.
