The Chungbuk Free Economic Zone Authority (Director Choi Bok-soo) announced on the 11th that it is publicly recruiting an operator for the "Osong International K-Beauty Academy," a crucial institution aimed at enhancing the global competitiveness of the K-beauty industry.

The academy, currently under construction in the vicinity of Osong Station and Cheongju OSCO, will cover a total area of 9,044.16 square meters across five floors. This facility is designed to include practical training areas for hair, makeup, skin care, and nail technology, alongside exhibition and promotional spaces, startup research labs, and dormitory facilities, positioning itself as a 'global K-beauty professional education center.'

By partnering with a private institution well-versed in beauty education and human networks, the Chungbuk Free Economic Zone Authority aims to enhance the quality and brand value of education offerings, while also serving as an 'export platform' targeting both domestic and international participants.

The selected operator will be responsible for a variety of functions for a three-year period after the commencement of operations, including recruiting and selecting education participants, promoting and consulting on K-beauty education, managing facility rentals and operations, and handling K-beauty product exhibitions and sales. Up to 5.479 billion KRW in operational support will be allocated for this initiative.

Eligible applicants include research institutions related to the beauty industry, universities, non-profit organizations, and investment corporations, with opportunities for joint participation as well.

The application period runs from May 11 to June 19, 2026, with submission of applications taking place from June 22 to 24 at the planning and administrative department of the Chungbuk Free Economic Zone Authority. More details can be found on the Chungbuk Provincial Government website (www.chungbuk.go.kr) and the Chungbuk Free Economic Zone Authority website (www.chungbuk.go.kr/eco/index.do).

Director Choi emphasized that the Osong International K-Beauty Academy will serve as a central hub for the K-beauty industry, integrating education, experience, entrepreneurship, and industry connections. He reiterated the importance of forming partnerships with institutions that possess expertise and operational capacity to nurture global K-beauty talent, positioning Osong as a leading center for K-beauty on the world stage.

In addition, the Osong International K-Beauty Academy is set to be a foundational facility for building a comprehensive ecosystem of the K-beauty industry, linked to the Osong Bio-cluster. This initiative is expected to significantly boost the competitiveness of the beauty sector in Chungbuk through the attraction of both domestic and international trainees and the expansion of industry-related programs.