Your First Step to K-Beauty Sourcing Success
Ready to connect with Korean beauty brands? This guide walks you through exactly how to request meetings and samples on knok—from creating your account to securing your first brand partnership.
Before You Start: Create Your Buyer Profile
Why Your Profile Matters
Korean brands receive many inquiries. A complete, professional profile helps you:
- Stand out from casual browsers
- Build trust with brand export teams
- Get faster responses to your requests
- Receive better terms on partnerships
Essential Profile Elements
| Element | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Company Name | Brands verify legitimate businesses |
| Business Type | Helps brands understand your channel |
| Target Markets | Brands check market availability |
| Expected Volume | Determines MOQ flexibility |
| Website/Social | Validates your business presence |
Pro Tip
Upload your business registration or import license. Verified buyers receive priority responses from premium brands.
Part 1: How to Request a Meeting
Step 1: Browse & Select Brands
- Go to Browse Brands
- Use filters to narrow by:
- Category (Skincare, Makeup, Haircare, etc.)
- Certifications (Vegan, Cruelty-free, etc.)
- MOQ Range (Match your order capacity)
Step 2: Visit the Brand Page
Click on a brand to view:
- Brand story and values
- Product portfolio
- Certifications and achievements
- Export information
Step 3: Click "Request Meeting"
Find the Request Meeting button on the brand page.
Step 4: Complete the Meeting Request Form
Required Information:
- Meeting type (Video call, Phone, or In-person)
- Preferred dates/times (suggest 2-3 options)
- Meeting purpose
- Specific topics to discuss
Recommended Details:
- Products you're interested in
- Your target market
- Expected order volume
- Timeline for partnership
Step 5: Submit & Track
After submitting:
- You'll receive a confirmation email
- Track status in your dashboard
- Expect response within fast turnaround (guaranteed)
Part 2: How to Request Samples
When to Request Samples
Request samples when you:
- Need to test product quality
- Want to evaluate formulations
- Must verify packaging/labeling
- Plan to show products to your customers
- Need samples for regulatory approval
Step 1: Find the Right Products
Browse brand product catalogs on their profile pages. Note specific products you want to sample.
Step 2: Click "Request Sample"
Locate the Request Sample button on the brand page.
Step 3: Complete the Sample Request
Specify:
- Exact products you want
- Quantity needed for each
- Purpose of samples
- Shipping address
- Any special requirements
Step 4: Understand Sample Policies
Sample terms vary by brand:
| Policy Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Free samples | Brand provides at no cost |
| Paid samples | You cover product cost |
| Shipping paid | You cover shipping only |
| Full cost | You pay product + shipping |
| Order credit | Sample cost applied to first order |
Most brands clearly state their sample policy on their profile.
Step 5: Follow Up Professionally
After receiving samples:
- Test products thoroughly
- Provide feedback to the brand
- Discuss potential order terms
- Move toward partnership
Best Practices for Success
Writing Effective Requests
DO:
- Be specific about your interests
- Include relevant business details
- Mention your timeline
- Ask clear questions
- Show genuine interest in the brand
DON'T:
- Send generic copy-paste messages
- Request samples without business context
- Ask for unrealistic terms immediately
- Ignore brand requirements
Sample Request Template
Subject: Sample Request - [Your Company] for [Target Market]
Hi [Brand Name] Team,
I'm [Name] from [Company], a [business type] serving [target market].
We're interested in the following products:
1. [Product Name] - [Quantity]
2. [Product Name] - [Quantity]
Our purpose: [Testing for retail launch / Customer evaluation / etc.]
Timeline: We're looking to place our first order by [Month].
Please let me know your sample terms and process.
Best regards,
[Name]
[Company]
[Website]
Meeting Preparation Tips
- Research the brand before the meeting
- Prepare questions about products, MOQ, pricing
- Have your requirements ready (volume, timeline, markets)
- Test your video setup if it's a video call
- Follow up promptly after the meeting
After Your Request: What Happens Next
Meeting Requests
Submit Request → Brand Reviews (24-72h) → Brand Responds → Schedule Meeting → Meet → Discuss Terms
Sample Requests
Submit Request → Brand Reviews (24-72h) → Terms Confirmed → Samples Shipped → You Evaluate → Proceed to Order
Common Questions
How long until I hear back?
All requests are covered by our fast response guarantee. Most brands respond within 24-48 hours.
Can I request from multiple brands at once?
Yes! We encourage it. Comparing multiple brands helps you make better sourcing decisions.
What if a brand declines my request?
Brands may decline due to:
- Market conflicts (existing distributor in your region)
- MOQ mismatch
- Business type incompatibility
If declined, we can suggest alternative brands in similar categories.
Are there any fees?
Using knok to request meetings and samples is free for buyers. You only pay for sample products/shipping as agreed with brands.
Can I negotiate sample terms?
Absolutely. Many brands are flexible with sample terms for serious buyers with clear business plans.
Start Your K-Beauty Sourcing Journey
You're now ready to connect with Korean beauty brands professionally and efficiently.
Quick Recap:
- ✅ Complete your buyer profile
- ✅ Browse and select brands
- ✅ Submit detailed, professional requests
- ✅ Respond promptly to brand communications
- ✅ Build lasting partnerships
Ready to connect with K-beauty brands?
Need help with your first request? Contact our support team for personalized assistance.
Written by
knok Team
Expert contributor at knok, sharing insights about K-Beauty trends, wholesale opportunities, and the latest in Korean skincare innovations.
