AXIS-Y Secures MBK Investment At KRW 430bn Valuation

AXIS-Y has agreed to bring MBK Partners in as a minority growth investor in a transaction valuing the Korean vegan skincare business at approximately KRW 430 billion. MBK Partners will acquire a 40% stake in Asia Master Trade Co., Ltd., the company behind AXIS-Y, for approximately KRW 172 billion. The founder will retain a 60% holding, remain the largest shareholder and continue to lead management and strategic direction. The deal follows a global build-out that has taken the brand to approximately 100 countries, with more than 90% of revenue generated outside Korea and over 20 million units of its Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum sold.

Global First Brand Development

Founded in 2019, AXIS-Y has built its proposition around vegan and cruelty-free principles, climate-inspired skincare and consumer participation. The company gathers input from consumers and creators in 68 countries through surveys, voting and product testing, using those perspectives in product development and global communication.

Its international presence spans the United States, Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia and the CIS region. AXIS-Y formally entered Olive Young in Korea in 2025, around six years after launch, with key products later reaching No. 1 in the retailer’s online rankings.

Minority Investment Structure

The founder of AXIS-Y, said:

“The valuation recognized through this transaction is meaningful, but what matters more is the long-term brand value AXIS-Y will create from here.”

“This investment recognizes what our team and global community have already built. We did not create AXIS-Y around a single trend or market. We built it around a clear point of view, consistent standards and the belief that consumers should be part of the brand's development.”

“We will preserve the vegan beauty philosophy and global consumer-centered identity that have guided us from the beginning while continuing to invest in our products, our brand, technology and people.”

Next Stage Priorities

AXIS-Y plans to use the partnership to increase online and offline distribution and strengthen brand investment in key international markets. Its planned category expansion includes haircare, beauty devices and other areas beyond skincare.

The company also intends to expand its use of AI and data in global consumer analysis, market forecasting, demand planning, product development and operational efficiency. Alongside these plans, AXIS-Y will seek global talent and broaden the expertise required to support its next stage.

Shared Long Term Value

Talent is also part of AXIS-Y’s growth plans. The company has introduced an employee stock-option programme for key talent and plans to broaden participation as the organisation develops.

The founder of AXIS-Y, said:

“Together with MBK Partners, we will strengthen our global competitiveness from a long-term perspective and continue to explore new markets and categories.”

“Our goal is not simply to become larger. It is to build a global beauty brand with a clear identity that consumers around the world will continue to choose for years to come.”