Kim Young-ae, aged 90 and a door-to-door salesperson for 51 years, expressed her commitment to continue working as long as her health permits, as stated by Amorepacific, the beauty product company she has represented since 1972.
Kim frequents one of Amorepacific’s outdoor shops in Yeongdeungpo District, western Seoul, 10 to 15 times a month. In today’s era dominated by online shopping, the beauty industry lures consumers through celebrity endorsements, flashy commercials, and multilingual clerks in tourist spots. However, Kim remains steadfast in her traditional sales approach, which is now nearly obsolete.
“Amorepacific is a renowned brand with extensive research and development. Many locals consider it the nation’s top cosmetic firm,” said Kim, who has sold over 1 billion won ($720,000) worth of the company’s products over her career.
“Currently, my customers mostly inquire about Sulwhasoo products. Among them, the concentrated ginseng renewing cream and first care activating perfecting serum are the most sought-after,” she added.
As Kim and her clientele have aged, some of her loyal customers have passed away. However, those who continue to buy from her have formed close friendships, showing mutual concern for each other’s health and longevity.
“Although my family advises me to retire and rest, I wish to continue as long as possible,” Kim shared. “Having a routine and interacting with people bring me joy and keep me healthy.”
Amorepacific revealed that out of the 22,300 active door-to-door sales agents in Korea, nine percent are women aged 70 or older. In an aging society, Kim serves as a role model for her peers, showcasing how modern medicine enables older individuals to sustain their careers.
Kim embarked on her sales journey at Amorepacific at 38 in 1972, prompted by her husband’s work difficulties, which necessitated additional income for their household. Initially shy, she struggled to make sales, only managing to sell a 600-won manicure product and a 1,600-won bottle of milk lotion out of sympathy. However, she persisted and eventually became a top seller for Amorepacific during the 1970s and 80s when door-to-door sales constituted over 70 percent of the company’s total sales, a figure that has since dwindled to 15 percent.
