21 Century Medical, headquartered in Gwangju, South Korea, has appeared to expand its global presence in recent years by aligning with the international rise of K-beauty medical aesthetic trends.

According to previous participation records, the company took part in Cosmoprof Asia 2018 in Hong Kong, where its signature Polydioxanone (PDO) thread products received notable attention.

During the exhibition, 21 Century Medical reportedly conducted more than 40 business consultations, generating an estimated USD 1.2 million in consultation value, USD 580,000 in intended contracts, and USD 50,000 in on-site agreements.

The exhibition attracted over 20,000 visitors, and the company was understood to be the only enterprise from Gwangju supported for attendance that year. CEO Mihyang Shin noted that significant interest from overseas buyers—despite it being the company’s first participation—suggested potential for future expansion.

he company showcased multiple PDO thread lines such as MONO, TWIN, HYDRA, SCREW, DOUBLE SCREW, COILSPRING, and COG, many of which were recognized for their technical features and manufacturing quality. COILSPRING and LEECH COG threads, in particular, were highlighted for holding exclusive patents in Korea.

Buyers also expressed interest in the company’s new model, TRY, and responded positively to the reliability of its integrated system where manufacturing facilities and offices are located within a single building. It was also reported that the company received favorable reactions at the Medipharm Expo held in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, during the same year. Such outcomes have been associated with the company’s capability in Biotechnology and its consistent quality management system.

Founded in 2009, 21 Century Medical has focused on producing PDO threads for pain therapy and aesthetic procedures based on natural bio-thread principles. The company has obtained key international certifications including KFDA, GMP, ISO13485, and CE, and previously received the Million-Dollar Export Tower Award in 2014. Its expanding portfolio spans both Medical Supply and Surgery Supply, helping the company strengthen its visibility in overseas markets. This trajectory appears to support its growing relevance within the global K-beauty medical device segment.

The company’s PDO thread lineup has been viewed as a cost-effective and minimally invasive alternative to traditional cosmetic procedures. Among them, the COG series has gained overseas interest due to its lifting capability, which is enhanced by its structural features.

In addition, the company has publicly emphasized its women-friendly organizational culture. According to internal statements, 21 Century Medical has continued to hire and train women as key employees while implementing workplace policies supporting work–life balance through maternity protection and regular working-hour systems.

Looking ahead, 21 Century Medical aims to advance further by enhancing its Biotechnology-driven R&D and strengthening its global competitiveness across Medical Supply, Surgery Supply, and K-beauty medical devices.