Use a structured subject line

[DISTRIBUTION INQUIRY: Product Category — Your Company — Your Country]
Example: [DISTRIBUTION INQUIRY: K-Beauty Skincare — Greenfield Health Ltd — United Kingdom]

Why: Korean export teams receive high volumes of unsolicited inquiry. A structured subject line signals you are a serious buyer.

Include 5 specifics in your first message

① Who you are and what your company does · ② Specific product or category · ③ Your market and existing distribution reach · ④ Approximate annual volume · ⑤ One specific question requiring a response

Why: Vague inquiries are ignored. Specific inquiries with realistic volumes get responses within 3–7 business days.

Follow up once at 7 days

If no response after 7 business days, send one follow-up referencing your original message. If still no response, try LinkedIn or KOTRA's matching service instead.

Note: Large companies (Amorepacific, CJ) may take 2–3 weeks. Mid-sized exporters typically respond faster.

Incoterms — FOB Busan or Incheon is standard

FOB (Free on Board) means the Korean supplier is responsible until goods are loaded onto the vessel. From that point, you bear the cost and risk. Most Korean exporters default to FOB Busan or Incheon.

Payment terms — 30% deposit, 70% vs. B/L

Standard: 30% deposit on order confirmation, 70% balance against bill of lading (before shipment release). For new relationships, suppliers may request higher deposits — 50/50 is common for first orders.

Always get a written commercial agreement

Cover: product specs · price with Incoterms · payment terms · MOQ and lead time · quality inspection rights · regulatory documentation responsibilities · exclusivity terms (if applicable) · termination conditions.

Request samples before committing to MOQ

Most Korean suppliers provide samples (sometimes for a fee). Test against your specifications before placing a full order. Confirm packaging, labeling, and regulatory compliance on samples first.

Engage a US Customs Broker

A licensed US Customs Broker classifies your products under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), applies KORUS FTA duty reductions, prepares entry documents, and coordinates with CBP at port of entry.

Logistics: ocean freight is standard

Busan → Los Angeles/Long Beach: 13–16 days. Busan → East Coast: 18–22 days. Air freight (Incheon → anywhere): 3–5 days but 5–8× the cost per kg. Use air for high-value, time-sensitive first shipments only.