The Korea Health Industry Development Institute, led by Director Cha Soon-do, announced on the 10th the results of its "2024 Biohealth Industry Current Status Survey." This comprehensive study aims to capture essential statistics on companies, including revenue by sector and type, workforce distribution, and research and development (R&D) expenditures. Conducted between July and November 2025, the survey is a vital national-approved statistic, aimed at producing timely and continuous data that meets policy demands.

The survey indicates that the total revenue for the biohealth industry is projected to reach 143.55 trillion won in 2024, reflecting a 7.6% increase from 2023. Notably, the pharmaceutical sector leads with a revenue of 55.13 trillion won (+3.9%), followed by cosmetics at 48.50 trillion won (+14.6%) and medical devices at 39.92 trillion won (+5.2%). This revenue growth showcases the cosmetics sector's robust performance as it significantly outpaces other segments, suggesting a shift in consumer preferences and increased market confidence.

The workforce in the biohealth industry is also expected to grow, with a total of 358,385 professionals representing a 1.6% increase compared to the previous year. The cosmetics segment accounts for the highest number of employees, totaling 133,244, marking a 0.7% rise. The medical devices sector follows, employing 118,346 (+0.04%), and the pharmaceutical sector employs 106,795 (+4.6%). This increase in employment figures highlights the industry's capacity to absorb labor, suggesting that it can handle future market demands while also underscoring the importance of talent acquisition and retention strategies.

In terms of R&D, the biohealth industry's research expenditures are projected to be 85.38 trillion won in 2024, a notable 14.3% increase from 2023. The R&D intensity ratio is recorded at 5.9%. Breaking it down by sector, the pharmaceutical industry leads with 45.43 trillion won (+8.8%), followed by medical devices at 24.83 trillion won (+24.3%), and cosmetics at 15.13 trillion won (+16.3%). The higher R&D intensity in pharmaceuticals emphasizes its critical role in innovation, indicating a robust pipeline for future products, beneficial for investors looking toward long-term returns.

Lee Byung-kwan, head of the Biohealth Innovation Planning Team at the Institute, expressed hope that the survey results will serve as foundational data to support national strategy development and facilitate corporate growth. He emphasized the plan to enhance statistical infrastructure for fields that demand high policy attention, demonstrating an intention to create a data-driven ecosystem within the industry. This proactive approach signals an opportunity for investors and distributors to align themselves with emerging trends and innovations in biohealth.

Lee's commitment to continuously uncover tailored statistics that reflect future industrial changes reinforces the industry’s focus on innovation and adaptability. This aligns the biohealth sector with broader trends toward data-centric decision-making in global markets, positioning it as a vital participant in the evolving landscape of the beauty and health industries.

As the biohealth sector continues to expand and innovate, these findings indicate a shift toward a more integrated ecosystem where collaboration between companies, policy-makers, and consumers will be essential. This survey not only sheds light on current performance but also serves as a strategic roadmap for future growth opportunities across the beauty sector.