Axis-Y Enters Its Next Growth Chapter with MBK Partners

Since launching in 2019, the global vegan skincare brand Axis-Y has built its identity around three consistent foundations: vegan and cruelty-free principles, a climate-inspired approach to skincare, and direct participation from its global community.

The brand has now agreed to welcome MBK Partners as a minority growth investor at a valuation of approximately KRW 430 billion.

Under the agreement, MBK Partners will acquire a 40% stake in Asia Master Trade Co., Ltd., the company behind Axis-Y, for approximately KRW 172 billion.

Following completion of the transaction, the founder will retain a 60% stake, remain the company’s largest shareholder, and continue to lead the management and strategic direction of Axis-Y.

This is not a founder exit or a transfer of management control. It is a minority investment in a founder-controlled global beauty business.

AXIS-Y will continue to be founder-led, with MBK Partners participating as a financial investor and growth partner.

The purpose of the partnership is not to replace the identity that created AXIS-Y’s current value, but to expand its potential.

the founder of Axis-Y commented:

“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.”

Axis-Y is present in approximately 100 countries, generates more than 90% of its revenue outside Korea, and has sold more than 20 million units of its hero product, the Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum.