With a growing interest in K-pop, K-drama series and Korean skincare in India, Young Doo's online venture for Korean products hopes to convert Indian buyers in a big way
Last year, when KARD—one of the biggest names in the Korean pop (K-pop) industry—toured India for its maiden concert in Delhi and Guwahati, the response was overwhelming. “We didn’t know we had a huge fan following here,” BM, one of the band members, reportedly said.
While KARD underestimated India’s growing love for Korean culture, entrepreneur Seo Young Doo already had some tricks up his sleeve. Young Doo had, in December 2018, launched an online venture called Korikart, an etailer for Korean beauty, skincare, food, fashion, home and kitchen products.
“We look forward to capturing an audience of K-pop fans,” says Young Doo, who came to India in 2004, and studied international relations at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). These fans, he says, are seeking famous Korean products such as cosmetics and ramen noodles. Along with his own admiration for India, he launched the e-store betting on the growing popularity of K-pop, K-Drama and Korean skincare.
“We have seen quite a surge in demand for skincare, and especially for noodles,” he adds. “There is a steadily growing population that wants to use products made of natural ingredients, which are affordable and healthier. Korean products tick all these boxes,” he says in an interview with Forbes India.