KT&G Sangsangmadang Busan will host the "2025 KT&G Sangsangmadang Korea Cosmetics Challenge" from March 17 to April 14 to support the development of eco-friendly cosmetics.

Now in its fifth year, this year's competition is themed "Time." KT&G Sangsangmadang Busan is seeking innovative startup ideas in the eco-friendly cosmetics sector, including skincare, hair care, body care, and makeup products, inspired by the theme of "Time."

Eligible participants include individuals or teams of up to five members with with eco-friendly beauty startup ideas. They can apply in one of two categories: "Beginner," for those just starting out, or "Challenger," for small businesses registered with the Ministry of SMEs and Startups as responsible cosmetics distributors within five years of establishment. For more details about the contest, please visit the KT&G Sangsangmadang website (https://www.sangsangmadang.com).

The selection process includes document screening, a mentoring camp, and a final presentation. The three selected teams in the Beginner and Challenger categories will receive KRW 20 million worth of product development and production support in collaboration with Cosmocos, along with promotional and marketing benefits.

“The KT&G Sangsangmadang Busan Korea Cosmetics Challenge offers practical product development support and market entry opportunities for beauty entrepreneurs with creative ideas and innovative visions,” said an official from KT&G Sangsangmadang Busan. “Through this competition, we aim to actively support the next generation of beauty industry leaders, helping them build competitiveness in the eco-friendly cosmetics market.”

KT&G Sangsangmadang serves as a multifaceted cultural and artistic space, supporting the creative activities of emerging artists while offering diverse cultural experiences to the public. Since the launch of its first location in Hongdae in 2007, the platform has expanded to five locations, including Nonsan, Chuncheon, Daechi, and Busan, contributing to the development of regional culture and the broadening of cultural and artistic engagement. KT&G Sangsangmadang attracts around 3.1 million visitors annually and hosts more than 3,000 cultural and artistic programs every year.