Dongkuk Pharmaceutical has achieved its highest-ever first-half performance, driven by balanced growth in its health and beauty (H&B) and pharmaceutical sectors.
On August 14, Dongkuk Pharmaceutical announced in its semi-annual report that it recorded consolidated sales of 509.9 billion won, an operating profit of 53.4 billion won, and a net profit of 43.6 billion won for the first half of the year. These figures represent increases of 11.5%, 12.6%, and 20.9%, respectively, compared to the same period last year.
On a standalone basis, the company reported sales of 436.5 billion won, an operating profit of 47.8 billion won, and a net profit of 40.8 billion won, marking increases of 16.7%, 23.4%, and 32.9% year-on-year. The company attributed its profitability to improved efficiency in sales and management expenses alongside revenue growth.
In the health and beauty sector, the growth of the derma-cosmetic brand Centellian24 led the way. Centellian24 expanded its distribution network in North America, Europe, Japan, and Southeast Asia, resulting in a 566% increase in overseas sales in the second quarter compared to the previous year. The brand has broadened its reach through major offline channels such as Watsons, Beautrium, Central Department Store, and Conbee, as well as online platforms. This strategy of leveraging the trust built as a pharmaceutical company to expand into consumer goods has been credited with driving sales growth.
The pharmaceutical division also continued its stable growth. In the second quarter, sales in the prescription drug (ETC) segment increased by 10.5% year-on-year, while cumulative sales for the first half rose by 9.4%. Key products driving this growth included the cholesterol-lowering drug Atovanduo, the osteoarthritis treatment Celebron, and the anti-ulcer medication Rabedon.
In the over-the-counter (OTC) segment, the company is expanding its portfolio of existing brands and general products, while also broadening its business through pharmacy cosmetics brand Madeca Pharma and the derma vegan cosmetic brand Luoncel.
Sales in the health supplement sector surged by over 40% compared to the first half of last year. The health supplement brand MyFit has achieved cumulative sales of approximately 47 billion won since its launch.
On the global front, the company is expanding the overseas supply of its prostate cancer treatment Lorelin, general anesthetic Propofol, and antibiotic raw material Teicoplanin. Uresco has signed a licensing and supply agreement worth 39 billion won over the next decade with Spanish pharmaceutical company FAES FARMA for 13 countries in Latin America, including Mexico, Colombia, and Chile.
The company plans to expand its pipeline of new products and businesses through drug delivery system (DDS) technology development and open innovation.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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