• Global Wellness Economy Reaches Record $6.8 Trillion, Set to Hit $9.8 Trillion by 2029

  The Global Wellness Institute (GWI) announced on the 19th the release of its Global Wellness Economy Monitor 2025, the industry’s only comprehensive research report covering the global wellness market and its 11 major sectors. According to the new data, the wellness economy continues its strong and accelerating trajectory, reaching an all-time high of $6.8 trillion in 2024, a 7.9% increase from the previous year and nearly double the size recorded in 2013. GWI confirmed that the global market has fully moved beyond the “pandemic recovery” stage, as all 11 wellness sectors have now surpassed their 2019 levels—many by significant margins. Among them, wellness real estate and mental wellness have been the fastest-growing categories over the past five years, expanding at annual rates of 19.5% and 12.4%, respectively. One exception is workplace wellness, which recorded a 1.5% decline from 2023 to 2024. Still, the broader regional markets have shown marked vitality, with North America (7.9%), the Middle East-North Africa (7.2%), and Europe (6.3%) posting notable annual growth. Wellness, A Massive Economic Force: The scale of the global wellness economy has now surpassed several other mega-industries. At $6.8 trillion, wellness is larger than sports ($2.7T), tourism ($5T), the green economy ($5.1T), and information technology ($5.3T). It is nearly four times the size of the pharmaceutical sector ($1.8T) and represents 60% of total global health expenditures, which amount to $11.2 trillion. Wellness accounted for 6.1% of global GDP in 2024, up from 5.7% in 2019, and is projected to rise to 7.1% by 2029. GWI forecasts that wellness spending will continue to accelerate at 7.6% annually through 2029, pushing the market to $9.8 trillion. The strongest projected performers include wellness real estate (15.8%), traditional and complementary medicine (10.8%), mental wellness (10.1%), and thermal/mineral springs (10%). “Now that the wellness economy has fully recovered from the pandemic, we can see how unstoppable it is as a consumer trend, and also how much the future growth has been accelerated by our pandemic experiences,” said Katherine Johnston, GWI senior research fellow. “There’s been a sea change in consumer mindsets, with prevention, mental health, social connection, the impacts of our living environments, and nature becoming dramatically more important all over the world. These shifts are fueling growth across all wellness sectors––from wellness real estate and mental wellness to hot springs and social bathing to more sophisticated preventative medical-wellness solutions.” The 140-page report presents detailed market data, sector-level analyses, and projections for all 11 wellness categories, along with regional trends and the top 20 national markets. A new chapter for 2025 explores key forces shaping the future of wellness and why some segments are expanding more quickly than others. Which Wellness Markets Will Grow Fastest? Among recent trends, wellness real estate remains the standout performer, doubling in size over the past five years. Mental wellness continues to surge, driven by increasing levels of stress worldwide and heightened prioritization of psychological wellbeing among younger demographics. The U.S. leads the mental wellness market at $125 billion, far outpacing China in second place at $16 billion. Sub-markets with especially strong growth over the past five years include cannabis products (26%), meditation and mindfulness (18.9%), and sleep-related products and services (12.6%). Four significant categories—personal care and beauty; healthy eating, nutrition and weight loss; physical activity; and traditional and complementary medicine—maintained stable annual growth of around 5% from 2019 to 2024. Meanwhile, tourism-related sectors experienced a strong rebound between 2023 and 2024: wellness tourism grew 13.8%, spas 14.6%, and thermal/mineral springs 11.1%, placing them among the year’s strongest performers. Per capita wellness spending varies widely by region, with North America at $6,029 and Europe at $1,876, while Latin America-Caribbean ($607), Asia ($471), and the Middle East-North Africa ($339) remain significantly lower. Looking ahead, GWI projects that by 2029, six wellness sectors will exceed $1 trillion in market size: personal care and beauty; healthy eating, nutrition and weight loss; physical activity; wellness tourism; wellness real estate; and traditional and complementary medicine. Thermal and mineral springs are also expected to be a standout performer, bolstered by a global surge in social bathing culture and significant investments in springs-based destinations.

• Asia Spa Experts Gather in Jeju for the 2025 Asia Spa Industry Union Summit

  The 2025 Asia Spa Industry Union Summit (ASIUS 2025) was successfully held on November 10 at Hotel Sirius in Jeju, bringing together spa experts from five Asian countries. Co-hosted by the Korea Spa Wellness Society (KorSpa) and the Healthcare & Spa Industry Promotion Agency (HESPA), the summit welcomed more than 60 delegates and industry leaders from Korea, Japan, China, Mongolia, and Malaysia. The event featured national spa industry trend presentations and academic research reports from scholars of the Korean Academy of Hot Spring. Mr. Hideo Yoshida, President of the Japan Spa & Sauna Association, shared Japan’s initiatives to revitalize its sauna industry through Aufguss competitions, manga-based promotional strategies, and specialized training programs. The Chinese delegation highlighted the continued growth of China’s spa industry driven by rising demand for health and relaxation, noting particularly strong development in Hainan Province and Shenyang in Liaoning. Representing Korea, Dr. Woo Jong Min of HESPA presented the development of the “Good Spa” certification system aimed at enhancing standardization and service quality. The summit also included an awards segment recognizing outstanding contributions to the Asian spa sector. Korea’s K-WAVE Co., Ltd. received top honors as both the “Medical Spa Medical Beauty Marketing & Service Best Management Agency” and the “Medical Spa Anti-aging Marketing & Service Best Management Agency,” while PREO, one of Korea’s leading faucet and spa equipment brands, was named Best Brand in the equipment category. In addition, Jeju-based cosmetic brands—including THE PURE LOTUS, DAILISH, MAROHAN, JEJU INDI, THE WOO COMPANY, and 6-DROPS—were showcased and drew substantial interest from international attendees. The next summit will be hosted by the Chinese association, with Shenyang, China emerging as the leading candidate for March 2026. Paul Ha-young Song, President of KorSpa, stated that spa services across Asia are evolving in diverse and innovative ways amid growing wellness demand, emphasizing the importance of strengthening cross-border information and human exchange to support shared and sustainable development across the Asian spa and wellness industry. KorSpa President Paul H. Song (left) and JSSA President Hideo Yoshiada (middle) hand over the Union flag to Mr. Zhang Jinzhong (right), President of China Spa Association, the next host of the summit.

• TOURISE Announces USD 113BN in Portfolio Investments to Accelerate the Future of Tourism

  TOURISE, the bold global platform shaping a new horizon for tourism, has announced that it has catalyzed investment portfolios totaling USD 113BN at the inaugural TOURISE Summit in Riyadh. The milestone reflects TOURISE’s mission to unlock high‑value deal flow by convening public and private sector leaders across tourism, technology, investment, and sustainability to set a shared roadmap for the next 50 years of global tourism. The announced portfolio investments span the full breadth of the visitor economy: luxury retail, next‑generation hotel accommodation, large‑scale integrated, experience‑led developments, wellness, destination and lifestyle offerings, talent development, and AI‑powered platforms. Collectively, these commitments set a new standard for what’s possible, and what’s required, to meet future tourism needs and redesign the traveler journey.Just some of the international and local companies who announced their portfolios as part of the USD 113BN include: Melia Hotels, BWH Hotels, GOCO Hospitality, Cenomi, Radisson, Earth Hotels, Delonix & Ocean Link, AlFozan Holding, Al Kathiri Holding, Alothaim, and Knowledge Economic City.By combining hard infrastructure with human capital, and fusing data, design, and hospitality, these investments will unlock new value across the tourism ecosystem, create new job opportunities, and deliver unforgettable, purpose‑driven experiences at scale. Above all, many were Saudi focused, cementing the Kingdom’s international competitiveness and desirability as a leading global travel destination, where culture, innovation, and world‑class service come together, and signal to partners and investors that this is where the next era of tourism growth is to be built.Investment ushers in the next chapter of the global tourism economyHis Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism and Chairman of the Board of TOURISE, commented “TOURISE has been the catalyst that brings investors, policymakers, and innovators to the same table, turning vision into bankable partnerships and high‑impact deals. Together, we’re redefining the entire traveler economy—powered by AI, built on destination and experience excellence, and designed so growth and opportunity extend across the ecosystem.”Today’s announcement advances TOURISE’s founding purpose: to unite decision‑makers and disruptors across the public and private spheres to accelerate transformative partnerships and convert ambition into action through high‑impact dealmaking. With the announcement of such unprecedented levels in the tourism ecosystem, it highlights how TOURISE brings the right people together at the right time to drive outcomes that will reshape how the world travels, connects, and grows.

• Global Wellness Economy Reaches Record $6.8 Trillion, Set to Hit $9.8 Trillion by 2029

  The Global Wellness Institute (GWI) announced on the 19th the release of its Global Wellness Economy Monitor 2025, the industry’s only comprehensive research report covering the global wellness market and its 11 major sectors. According to the new data, the wellness economy continues its strong and accelerating trajectory, reaching an all-time high of $6.8 trillion in 2024, a 7.9% increase from the previous year and nearly double the size recorded in 2013. GWI confirmed that the global market has fully moved beyond the “pandemic recovery” stage, as all 11 wellness sectors have now surpassed their 2019 levels—many by significant margins. Among them, wellness real estate and mental wellness have been the fastest-growing categories over the past five years, expanding at annual rates of 19.5% and 12.4%, respectively. One exception is workplace wellness, which recorded a 1.5% decline from 2023 to 2024. Still, the broader regional markets have shown marked vitality, with North America (7.9%), the Middle East-North Africa (7.2%), and Europe (6.3%) posting notable annual growth. Wellness, A Massive Economic Force: The scale of the global wellness economy has now surpassed several other mega-industries. At $6.8 trillion, wellness is larger than sports ($2.7T), tourism ($5T), the green economy ($5.1T), and information technology ($5.3T). It is nearly four times the size of the pharmaceutical sector ($1.8T) and represents 60% of total global health expenditures, which amount to $11.2 trillion. Wellness accounted for 6.1% of global GDP in 2024, up from 5.7% in 2019, and is projected to rise to 7.1% by 2029. GWI forecasts that wellness spending will continue to accelerate at 7.6% annually through 2029, pushing the market to $9.8 trillion. The strongest projected performers include wellness real estate (15.8%), traditional and complementary medicine (10.8%), mental wellness (10.1%), and thermal/mineral springs (10%). “Now that the wellness economy has fully recovered from the pandemic, we can see how unstoppable it is as a consumer trend, and also how much the future growth has been accelerated by our pandemic experiences,” said Katherine Johnston, GWI senior research fellow. “There’s been a sea change in consumer mindsets, with prevention, mental health, social connection, the impacts of our living environments, and nature becoming dramatically more important all over the world. These shifts are fueling growth across all wellness sectors––from wellness real estate and mental wellness to hot springs and social bathing to more sophisticated preventative medical-wellness solutions.” The 140-page report presents detailed market data, sector-level analyses, and projections for all 11 wellness categories, along with regional trends and the top 20 national markets. A new chapter for 2025 explores key forces shaping the future of wellness and why some segments are expanding more quickly than others. Which Wellness Markets Will Grow Fastest? Among recent trends, wellness real estate remains the standout performer, doubling in size over the past five years. Mental wellness continues to surge, driven by increasing levels of stress worldwide and heightened prioritization of psychological wellbeing among younger demographics. The U.S. leads the mental wellness market at $125 billion, far outpacing China in second place at $16 billion. Sub-markets with especially strong growth over the past five years include cannabis products (26%), meditation and mindfulness (18.9%), and sleep-related products and services (12.6%). Four significant categories—personal care and beauty; healthy eating, nutrition and weight loss; physical activity; and traditional and complementary medicine—maintained stable annual growth of around 5% from 2019 to 2024. Meanwhile, tourism-related sectors experienced a strong rebound between 2023 and 2024: wellness tourism grew 13.8%, spas 14.6%, and thermal/mineral springs 11.1%, placing them among the year’s strongest performers. Per capita wellness spending varies widely by region, with North America at $6,029 and Europe at $1,876, while Latin America-Caribbean ($607), Asia ($471), and the Middle East-North Africa ($339) remain significantly lower. Looking ahead, GWI projects that by 2029, six wellness sectors will exceed $1 trillion in market size: personal care and beauty; healthy eating, nutrition and weight loss; physical activity; wellness tourism; wellness real estate; and traditional and complementary medicine. Thermal and mineral springs are also expected to be a standout performer, bolstered by a global surge in social bathing culture and significant investments in springs-based destinations.

  • In English
  • Global News

  2025-11-20

• Asia Spa Experts Gather in Jeju for the 2025 Asia Spa Industry Union Summit

  The 2025 Asia Spa Industry Union Summit (ASIUS 2025) was successfully held on November 10 at Hotel Sirius in Jeju, bringing together spa experts from five Asian countries. Co-hosted by the Korea Spa Wellness Society (KorSpa) and the Healthcare & Spa Industry Promotion Agency (HESPA), the summit welcomed more than 60 delegates and industry leaders from Korea, Japan, China, Mongolia, and Malaysia. The event featured national spa industry trend presentations and academic research reports from scholars of the Korean Academy of Hot Spring. Mr. Hideo Yoshida, President of the Japan Spa & Sauna Association, shared Japan’s initiatives to revitalize its sauna industry through Aufguss competitions, manga-based promotional strategies, and specialized training programs. The Chinese delegation highlighted the continued growth of China’s spa industry driven by rising demand for health and relaxation, noting particularly strong development in Hainan Province and Shenyang in Liaoning. Representing Korea, Dr. Woo Jong Min of HESPA presented the development of the “Good Spa” certification system aimed at enhancing standardization and service quality. The summit also included an awards segment recognizing outstanding contributions to the Asian spa sector. Korea’s K-WAVE Co., Ltd. received top honors as both the “Medical Spa Medical Beauty Marketing & Service Best Management Agency” and the “Medical Spa Anti-aging Marketing & Service Best Management Agency,” while PREO, one of Korea’s leading faucet and spa equipment brands, was named Best Brand in the equipment category. In addition, Jeju-based cosmetic brands—including THE PURE LOTUS, DAILISH, MAROHAN, JEJU INDI, THE WOO COMPANY, and 6-DROPS—were showcased and drew substantial interest from international attendees. The next summit will be hosted by the Chinese association, with Shenyang, China emerging as the leading candidate for March 2026. Paul Ha-young Song, President of KorSpa, stated that spa services across Asia are evolving in diverse and innovative ways amid growing wellness demand, emphasizing the importance of strengthening cross-border information and human exchange to support shared and sustainable development across the Asian spa and wellness industry. KorSpa President Paul H. Song (left) and JSSA President Hideo Yoshiada (middle) hand over the Union flag to Mr. Zhang Jinzhong (right), President of China Spa Association, the next host of the summit.

  • In English
  • Global News

  2025-11-13

• TOURISE Announces USD 113BN in Portfolio Investments to Accelerate the Future of Tourism

  TOURISE, the bold global platform shaping a new horizon for tourism, has announced that it has catalyzed investment portfolios totaling USD 113BN at the inaugural TOURISE Summit in Riyadh. The milestone reflects TOURISE’s mission to unlock high‑value deal flow by convening public and private sector leaders across tourism, technology, investment, and sustainability to set a shared roadmap for the next 50 years of global tourism. The announced portfolio investments span the full breadth of the visitor economy: luxury retail, next‑generation hotel accommodation, large‑scale integrated, experience‑led developments, wellness, destination and lifestyle offerings, talent development, and AI‑powered platforms. Collectively, these commitments set a new standard for what’s possible, and what’s required, to meet future tourism needs and redesign the traveler journey.Just some of the international and local companies who announced their portfolios as part of the USD 113BN include: Melia Hotels, BWH Hotels, GOCO Hospitality, Cenomi, Radisson, Earth Hotels, Delonix & Ocean Link, AlFozan Holding, Al Kathiri Holding, Alothaim, and Knowledge Economic City.By combining hard infrastructure with human capital, and fusing data, design, and hospitality, these investments will unlock new value across the tourism ecosystem, create new job opportunities, and deliver unforgettable, purpose‑driven experiences at scale. Above all, many were Saudi focused, cementing the Kingdom’s international competitiveness and desirability as a leading global travel destination, where culture, innovation, and world‑class service come together, and signal to partners and investors that this is where the next era of tourism growth is to be built.Investment ushers in the next chapter of the global tourism economyHis Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism and Chairman of the Board of TOURISE, commented “TOURISE has been the catalyst that brings investors, policymakers, and innovators to the same table, turning vision into bankable partnerships and high‑impact deals. Together, we’re redefining the entire traveler economy—powered by AI, built on destination and experience excellence, and designed so growth and opportunity extend across the ecosystem.”Today’s announcement advances TOURISE’s founding purpose: to unite decision‑makers and disruptors across the public and private spheres to accelerate transformative partnerships and convert ambition into action through high‑impact dealmaking. With the announcement of such unprecedented levels in the tourism ecosystem, it highlights how TOURISE brings the right people together at the right time to drive outcomes that will reshape how the world travels, connects, and grows.

  • In English
  • Global News

  2025-11-13

• Oslo to Host the 19th International Sauna Congress in 2026

  The Norwegian Sauna Association (Norges Badstulaug) has announced that the 19th International Sauna Congress (ISC 2026) will take place in Oslo from September 24–26, 2026, bringing together more than 500 sauna experts, enthusiasts, and industry leaders from around the world. Hosted at SALT Art & Music and The Well Spa & Hotel, the largest spa facility in the Nordics, ISC 2026 will explore the evolving role of saunas in modern life through three main themes: Sauna & Health, Global Sauna Culture, and Architecture, Technology & Sustainability. “ISC26 will bring the global sauna community together like never before,” said Lasse Eriksen, President of the Norwegian Sauna Association. “It’s the most important meeting place for anyone seeking to stay updated on the new frontiers of sauna research and knowledge.” Eriksen added, “Hosting the congress in Oslo gives us the opportunity to showcase not only what has been achieved, but what is possible — from design and sustainability to the many ways sauna nurtures community, health, and well-being. This will be a truly unique meeting of tradition and innovation.” Mr. Lasse Eriksen, President of the Norwegian Sauna Association Venues and Highlights The congress will open at Oslo City Hall, the same historic venue where the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony takes place each year, featuring cultural performances and an introduction to Norway’s vibrant sauna boom. Main sessions will be held at SALT Art & Music, a waterfront “sauna village” and cultural landmark, and The Well Spa & Hotel, which also serves as the main sponsor of the event. The three-day program will include talks, expert panels, networking sessions, and immersive sauna experiences—both in urban environments and in nature—celebrating the diversity of sauna traditions across the world. For details, visit: www.saunacongress2026.org The Rise of Norway’s Badstue Culture In recent years, Norway has experienced a dramatic expansion of its public badstue scene — the original Norwegian word for sauna — with new floating saunas on the fjords, forest retreats, urban sauna villages, and architecturally ambitious designs emphasizing sustainability and community engagement. “The growth of Norway’s progressive, nature-based, and urban badstue culture has been nothing short of spectacular,” said Eriksen. “We’ve seen saunas rise from the edges of fjords to the heart of city waterfronts — projects built by communities, architects, and operators who share a vision that sauna belongs to everyone, and that it can beautifully reflect nature, culture, and modern life in harmony.”

  • In English
  • Global News

  2025-10-29

• 17th Asia Spa Industry Union Summit to Convene in Jeju, Highlighting Wellness Collaboration Across Asia

  The 17th Asia Spa Industry Union Summit (ASIUS) will take place on November 10, 2025, at Hotel Sirius Jeju, bringing together leading spa and wellness experts from across Asia. Co-hosted by the Korea Spa and Wellness Society (KorSpa) and the Healthcare & Spa Industry Promotion Agency (HESPA), and supported by the Korean Academy of Hot Spring and the Jeju Industry-University Convergence Center, the summit aims to strengthen international cooperation in the evolving wellness and hot spring sectors. Delegations from China, Japan, Mongolia, and other countries are expected to attend. The invitation-only event requires advance registration and will feature a welcome dinner on November 9 and a Jeju regional sightseeing program on November 11, offering participants opportunities for both professional exchange and cultural immersion. In parallel, the Academic Conference of the Korean Academy of Hot Spring will also be held, where Korean researchers will present insightful studies and findings on wellness spa programs, adding a scholarly dimension to the international event. Together, these programs underscore Jeju’s growing reputation as a hub for wellness, spa innovation, and sustainable tourism in Asia. For details, visit: http://korspa.net/asius2025/ Roof Top Pool at Hotel Sirius Jeju

  • In English
  • Korea Today

  2025-10-29

• Africa Wellness Congress 2025 Highlights the Continent’s Growing Role in the Global Wellness Economy

  The Africa Wellness Congress 2025 concluded in Marrakech this week, bringing together more than 100 professionals from ten countries to explore business, investment, and innovation opportunities in Africa’s expanding wellness industry. Held on October 13–14 at the Es Saadi Marrakech Resort, the inaugural event carried the theme “Pioneering Investment & Business in Africa’s Wellness Industry.” Organizers and participants described the congress as a defining moment for the sector, underlining Africa’s potential to become a key player in the global wellness economy. Platform for Investment and Collaboration The congress was organized by HAB France and Acumen Events Maroc, with the support of the National Confederation of Tourism in Morocco and several regional and international partners, including VK Organisation, Africa Wellness Initiative, GPSA Wellness Solutions, Imperial Linens, Luxe Radio, Prestige Coaching, Spa Business, the Spa & Wellness Association of Africa, Spoon and Spoon Agency, and World Wellness Weekend. Over two days, delegates attended high-level conferences, panel discussions, and networking sessions focused on wellness tourism, hospitality, sustainability, and professional training. A lineup of 22 expert speakers shared insights on trends shaping the wellness sector and strategies to strengthen Africa’s position in the global market. Leaders Praise Morocco’s Wellness Vision Opening the event, Hamid Bentahar, President of the National Confederation of Tourism in Morocco, described the congress as “a visionary gathering rooted in the spirit of Bahja and celebrating the seven dimensions of wellness.” “Morocco, a land of inspiration, hospitality, and balance, offers the world a vision of wellness that is both authentic and forward-looking,” Bentahar said. Soumia Hite, Director of Prestige Coaching, said the gathering signaled a larger continental movement. “This congress marks the beginning of a collective effort to position Africa as a global reference in the wellness economy,” she noted. Building a Pan-African Wellness Ecosystem Industry experts including Trevor Ward, Patrick Saussay, Martin Goldmann, Fadhel Bouaziz, Sophie Agullana, Yuki Kiyono, Kent Richards, Beth Gatonye, Grace Zichawo, and Gil Amsallem led discussions on investment, concept design, and innovation, offering perspectives on both opportunities and challenges across the continent. The event concluded with a networking dinner at La Cour des Lions, celebrating Moroccan hospitality and cultural refinement. “The success of this first edition confirms the need for a pan-African forum dedicated to wellness,” said Christine Eskandar, International Projects Director at HAB France. “Together, we have laid the foundation for a sustainable and inclusive ecosystem capable of showcasing Africa’s unique potential to the world.” With its successful debut, the Africa Wellness Congress has positioned itself as a new continental platform for collaboration and growth, reflecting the rising influence of Africa within the global wellness landscape.

  • In English
  • Global News

  2025-10-24

실시간 In English 기사

• On The Border Further Expands Its International Presence in South Korea

  On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina, the world’s largest Mexican casual dining brand, and franchise partner JRW, Inc., have committed to expanding the brand’s franchise presence in Southeast Asia including its 13th restaurant in South Korea. Located on the fourth floor inside the AK Plaza Mall, 512-3 Iljik-dong Gwangmyeong-si, Gyeonggi-do, the new restaurant is experiencing early success since opening in November 2021. On The Border has 17 total franchised locations in South Korea, including four ghost kitchens.“Since opening, the Gwangmyeong AK Plaza has proven to be the perfect location,” says Suzy Park, CEO of JRW, Inc. “The menu and restaurant design is popular among the 400,000 residents living within 5 kilometers of the commercial district. We have a healthy flow of families and individual shoppers who enjoy the food and atmosphere that fits their lifestyle.”The 3,400-square-foot restaurant features a vibrant and welcoming design that guests have enjoyed for over a decade in South Korea. On The Border offers a variety of menu options for the entire family, plus those who want a break from shopping to relax with a freshly made margarita.International OpportunityOn The Border has three lines of businesses active in South Korea: Corporate Franchise Agreement, Master Franchise Agreement and a Licensing Agreement to sell On The Border Frozen and Fresh Meal Kits along with Chips, Salsa and Queso On-Line and through Retail Outlets.“We are looking for great Franchise Partners to expand our international presence in additional countries,” says Mike Wood, chief real estate officer at On The Border. We have spent 15 years in Southeast Asia establishing ourselves as a successful international brand that offers franchisees multiple operational verticals that fit the changing operational environments across the world.For more about franchising visit www.ontheborder.com/franchising, or email franchise@ontheborder.com.

  • In English
  • Korea Today

  2022-01-29

• Cosmoprof Asia Announces New Show Dates in 2022

  Cosmoprof Asia, Asia’s leading beauty trade fair, which was scheduled to be held on 17-19 November 2021 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, has announced the 25th edition will move to 16 – 18 November 2022. Considering the on-going uncertainty associated with the pandemic, and travel restrictions still being in place, the Organisers, in consultation with customers and industry stakeholders, decided to host the show in 2022, when international trade and business are expected to return and participants can enjoy the high-quality event they have come to expect. While waiting to meet each other face-to-face in November 2022, Cosmoprof Asia’s beauty community will have the opportunity to participate in an international digital event to maintain business connections and commercial interactions. From 8 to 16 November 2021, Cosmoprof Asia Digital Week will return to offer a match-making platform for buyers and sellers to interact with companies, view new product launches, place orders, meet clients and potential customers, and stay up to date on beauty trends and technology in 2021/2022. “Such a tough decision to move the date of the in-person event aims to guarantee safety and proper business conditions to our international exhibitors and operators,” said Antonio Bruzzone, General Manager of BolognaFiere Group and Director of Cosmoprof Asia Ltd. “For more than two decades, Cosmoprof Asia has gathered under one roof companies, buyers, retailers, and distributors from all over the world, who are interested in new opportunities in the fastest-growing markets of the APAC region. Our stakeholders deserve a highly performing exhibition during these tumultuous times.” “We believe this is the best decision for both exhibitors and visitors,” said David Bondi, Senior Vice President – Asia of Informa Markets and Director of Cosmoprof Asia Ltd. “We are 100% committed to delivering a high-quality event that will offer true value to all participants. We want all our attendees to feel safe and comfortable when returning to the show in 2022.” Cosmoprof and Cosmopack Asia will be an ideal showcase for the entire cosmetics industry, from finished products and brands to packaging suppliers and manufacturers, joining in Hong Kong from across the world. In 2019, Cosmoprof Asia hosted 2,955 exhibitors from 48 countries and regions and 40,046 buyers from 129 countries and regions.

  • In English
  • Global News

  2021-07-27

• Reversal of Aging of Human Cartilage, Restoring Youthfulness; the First of Its Kind Feat by Edogawa Hospital, Japan

  Cartilage of the knee joint, when severely damaged by age related wear and tear or injury or osteoarthritis, which is removed and usually discarded, during joint replacement surgery, now could be rejuvenated, becoming a potential source of cells for cell therapy through a disruptive technology that reverses aging, confirmed by Senescence associated ß-Galactosidase, p16 and p21, markers, published in Scientific Reports (www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-93607-9), a Nature journal. A conversation between (Late) Prof. Masatoshi Koshiba, (Nobel Laureate, 2002) and Dr. Masahiro Katoh on whether his aging joints could be rejuvenated, inspired orthopedician Dr Shojiro Katoh to develop a path breaking EELS-TALC technique (Enriched with Essentials and Lapped in Scaffold, Transplant-suitable Autologous Leveraged Chondrocytes), making this accomplishment. Aging of human body, its organs, tissues and cells is irreversible and in the lab environments, aging is much faster than inside the body. However, EELS-TALC technology has disrupted this conventional belief by making tissues younger, through tissue engineering in a chemically synthesized polymer scaffold, under physical maneuver of orbital shaking in the lab, without genetic manipulation or animal derived products, thus paving way to solutions that, when similar environment is made available inside the body, such reversal of aging might be possible. EELS TALC cultured chondrocytes have all ideal characteristics, worth recommending as the most suitable in ACI and MACI treatments: (i) Yielding Hyaline cartilage native to articular joints: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jor.2017.01.003 (ii) Hyaluronic acid enrichment, ideal for better healing: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.knee.2021.02.019 (iii) Enhanced miRNA140, a hall mark of healthy cartilage: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119553 (iv) Chondroprogenitors, mesenchymal stem cells grown from damaged tissues: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jor.2021.01.005 (v) Pluripotency marker expression and tissue like growth: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.reth.2020.03.006 (vi) Increased telomere length, proving youthfulness: Presented at meetings of British Society of Developmental Biology - Genetics Society & British Society of Gerontology; 2021. (vii) Lower SA-ß-Gal, p16, p21; confirming the reversal of aging: www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-93607-9 (viii) Pre-clinical studies proving, success in vivo: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jor.2017.01.003 EELS-TALC method is safe as it does not involve genomic alterations, oncogenes, viruses, or complex growth factors. Now, Dr. Katoh is evaluating ideal transportation of tissues and cells between the hospital and the lab based on earlier reported OPTRACT method (https://doi.org/10.1007/s10529-021-03116-y) and additional safety parameters, supported by EELS, JBM Inc, GN Corporation and NCRM, India, before starting clinical studies.

  • In English

  2021-07-18

• The 2021 Global Wellness Summit Pivots to Boston, Massachusetts

  The Global Wellness Summit (GWS), the foremost gathering of international leaders in the multitrillion-dollar global wellness economy, today announced a new location and dates for its 2021 conference. Originally to be held in Tel Aviv, Israel, in mid-November, it will now take place in Boston, Massachusetts, from November 30 through December 3 at the stunning, five-star Encore Boston Harbor—a Wynn property. The 2022 Summit will be held in Tel Aviv in the fall of next year. The Summit is a profoundly global event, and with shifting world travel restrictions, this fall’s conference will be “hybrid”: offering both in-person participation (where delegates are immersed in networking and social events) and a comprehensive virtual package, providing access to all the mainstage keynotes and panels—on-demand for every time zone. Registration is now open – learn more. All delegates will experience three days of expert keynotes and panels on the very different future for wellness as the world emerges from the pandemic. With a new era unfolding that will be defined by unprecedented intersections between health and wellness, Boston is the perfect place for the conference. It’s the “brainpower city,” with a renowned health and wellness ecosystem; an incredible innovation and investment landscape in “all things health”; and is the world’s greatest university city, home to renowned institutions such as Harvard, MIT, Boston University and Tufts University. “After consulting with the GWS’s global Board of Advisors and our close partners in Israel, we made the decision to pivot to the US again this year,” said Susie Ellis, GWS chair and CEO. “The 2021 Summit will explore the dramatically different and vibrant future for wellness that lies ahead after the lessons of the pandemic: an epoch where the relationship between ‘health’ and ‘wellness’ gets completely rethought, driving so much creativity and opportunity. We chose Boston because there’s no better place to gather health and wellness leaders to rethink the place of wellness and prevention in society, medicine, technology and in the investment world—at the very highest level.” Boston: No place is such a combined health, tech, innovation, research and investment powerhouse It’s impossible to capture all the health and wellness entrepreneurial and research activity in Boston. It’s the world mecca of higher education, boasting more than 100 universities and colleges. It’s home to many of world’s most powerful biotech/Pharma companies, including Novartis, Merck, Biogen and Pfizer. Boston has some of the most globally respected hospital and health research organizations, from Harvard’s system (which includes Brigham and Women’s Hospital; Massachusetts General; Beth Israel Deaconess; and Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health, the public health activism think-tank) to Tufts University Hospital System and the Leahy Clinic. It’s the number-two place to raise venture capital in the US (behind Silicon Valley) and a hotbed of health and wellness start-ups, from health provider tech companies, such as Athena and Reify, to fitness innovators, such as LoseIt and Coachup, to companies tackling mental wellness, whether MedRhythms or Happier. Boston is an exciting city where the historic and modern collide on every corner: where cobblestone streets and the Freedom Trail landmarks (telling the story of American Independence) stand beside cutting-edge restaurants, trendy nightclubs and world-class museums. During the Summit, Boston will be ablaze with festive lights and special holiday events, from the Nutcracker to the Boston Pops. The Summit will announce special pre- and post-conference trips for delegates in the area soon. Massachusetts is also a very safe destination, ranking among the top five US states for vaccination rates, according to the New York Times. The Encore Boston Harbor is a $2.6 billion, 33-acre, waterfront luxury resort located just minutes from Logan International Airport and all the important sights and destinations in the city—from the Seaport and the North End to the financial and theater districts. The resort, opened in 2019, features 15 restaurants and bars, massive meetings space, and a vast 19,000 square-foot spa. The GWS has negotiated special room rates for delegates, and hotel booking is open. Learn more. Information on the Summit’s theme, topics and speakers will be announced in the coming weeks.

  • In English
  • Global News

  2021-07-14

• Korean Wellness – Healing Mind, Body and Soul

  Healience Seonmaeul (Zen Village) The Korean Wave has brought us K-pop and K-dramas, and over the past decade we have also seen the global influence of K-beauty. The country that brought sheet masks to the world takes it a step further with K-wellness, with a focus on health from the inside out. There are four major wellness themes in Korea – Beauty and Spa, Korean Traditional Medicine, Nature and Forest, and Healing and Meditation. Whether you want to go for a relaxing spa experience, explore ancient wisdom embodied by traditional medicine, immerse yourself in a lush green forest, or recharge with meditation, you can plan your reenergizing trip to Korea. BEAUTY AND SPA Korean cosmetics and beauty habits are gaining attention all over the world. The true value of K-beauty lies in the skin care lines that are more refined than in any other country, to unique, high-quality cosmetic products with great cost effectiveness and special ingredients. ‘Made in Korea’ traditional Korean medicine cosmetics uses ingredients that don’t cause irritation, that fundamentally heals the skin and aids it with regenerative energy. Additionally, the fragrance of traditional Korean medicine decreases stress and stabilizes body and soul with an aromatherapy effect. It also uses edible raw materials derived from nature instead of chemical components. Sulwhasoo is a Korean beauty brand inspired by Korean herbal medicine ingredients to create a range of products and experiences to heal the mind and body. The Sulwhasoo Flagship Store in Seoul has two luxurious spas offering anti-aging traditional Korean medicine spa programs. Special treatments made with traditional Korean ingredients such as jade, amber, white porcelain enrich the spa effect. It also reinterprets traditional Korean medicine to resurrect the balance of body and mind and recharge to combat the hectic pace of everyday life. Spa Land Centum City in Busan is a huge spa facility that uses hot spring water, with calcium and sodium chlorides, which is pulled up from a thousand meters underground as well as hot spring water that is close to sea water in its 18 different hot springs and 13 theme spas. Because of its huge size, it takes quite some time to fully explore Spa Land. Spa Land consists of a hot spring bath and Korean-style spas, theme saunas, a restaurant and café. Spa Land will refresh your energy and time will disappear during this relaxing experience. KOREAN TRADITIONAL MEDICINE Traditional Korean medicine contains Korea’s unique medical knowledge and wisdom. From places that serve traditional Korean medicine tea that is full of medicinal scents to ones that offer relaxing foot baths and others where visitors get to create cosmetic products with traditional Korean medicine components, find a traditional Korean medicinal wellness program that matches you. Korean teas are enjoyed for not only their taste but also for their medicinal properties and health benefits. At Tea Therapy, a tea house near the Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul, you can try traditional teas tailored to suit customers’ specific requirements. The simple test at Tea Therapy will identify the tea to suit guests’ unique requirements, with different tea types depending on physical makeup and digestion. Tea Therapy’s Haengnang Branch in Jongno is located in part of the restored birth house of Yun Posun (President of Korea from 1960-1962) and is identified as an important cultural asset. There is a café, tea classes and special footbaths to relieve stress, headaches or improve circulation. Donguibogam Village (Oriental Medicine Theme Park) in Sancheong provides various anti-aging experience programs that use traditional Korean medicine essence. Skylake in Daegu is a cosmetic café where visitors can make cosmetic products based on traditional Korean medicine. NATURE AND FOREST The healing power of forests and nature is ideal for mindfulness, meditation and exercise. Forests are the perfect relief for stress and way to escape technology, allowing you to be at one with nature. Forest bathing involves slowly walking through a forest taking in the atmosphere through all five senses. Research on the healing powers of nature have shown a variety of benefits for physical, mental, and social health. It provides an easy and effective way to avoid stress, anxiety, burnout and depression. Connecting with nature boosts the body’s immunity, energy levels and ability to heal. It can also improve mood, sleep, memory and focus. Nature is also thought to have a soothing influence on relationships and emotional well-being. Busan’s Healing Forest is ideal for forest bathing and healing nature walks - activities that enhance the immunization of the human body. Forest play programs include tea drinking, meditation spaces, forest bath stretches, viewing sky through the leaves and barefoot walking. HEALING AND MEDITATION There are a number of properties throughout Korea that focus on wellness and offer a range of programs designed around nutrition, meditation, exercise and relaxation. The healing programs are designed to put in place healthy habits to improve overall lifestyle and to combat the effects of stress, busy lifestyles and technology. Healience Seonmaeul (Zen Village), located on a 250m-high hill on Jongjasan in Hongcheon, was established by a natural medicine scientist. Healience Seonmaeul provides a wide array of programs that enable people across generations to develop four essential habits and learn how to stay healthy. From multi-themed programs such as a detox session for improving your self-healing ability, a therapy session for relieving stress and a meditation session for self-reflection - you can choose whatever suits your specific requirements. The Hanwha Resort Geoje Belvedere Wellness program follows the ‘3R’ system. Refresh your body, relax your mind and reset your lifestyle. The water workouts at the infinity pool are a must. For more information on K-wellness go to http://wellnessvr.visitmedicalkorea.com/en/main

  • In English
  • Korea Today

  2021-06-24