Business Daily Mighty Patch founder Ju Rhyu
Mar 27, 2026
Ju Rhyu, Korean-American founder of Hero Cosmetics who created the Mighty Patch, tells the story of turning a K-beauty discovery into a global hit. She recounts launching via Amazon, rapid early growth, scaling supply chains from Korea, and why she sold the business. Conversation also covers changing acne culture and concerns about marketing advanced skincare to young people.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Career Path Shaped By Recessions And Varied Roles
- Ju Rhyu graduated into recessions and took varied roles, from startup Compete to nonprofit marketing, before business school.
- Her early career included internships at Planters and returning there full time after Columbia Business School.
Solve Problems With Simple Effective Mechanisms
- Use simple, proven mechanisms to solve a clear problem: hydrocolloid patches absorb fluid and speed pimple recovery.
- Ju Rhyu explains the patch material and its practical action of drawing out gunk from a spot.
Discovery Of Pimple Patches In Korea
- Ju Rhyu discovered pimple patches while living in Korea and was surprised they weren't in the U.S.
- She researched suppliers, designed packaging and nearly ordered 10,000 units before initially chickening out, illustrating early founder hesitation.