OVIO masters water purifier production through its smart factory.

It's no surprise that over the past decade, global consumers have significantly shifted their perception of Korean products. Take home appliances in the U.S., for example—Samsung and LG are leading the market, even surpassing GE, a traditional American brand. In the UK, Samsung was recognized as the most trusted brand last year. From your perspective, why do you think consumers around the world view Korean home appliances as innovative, high-quality, and trustworthy?

I believe the global reputation of Korean home appliance brands stems from their outstanding durability and performance, innovative technology, and exceptional quality competitiveness. In addition, their swift response to premium and eco-friendly trends has played a significant role in meeting the needs of global consumers. Another factor that has strengthened their competitiveness is the introduction of localized designs and technologies tailored to the characteristics and cultures of each country.

In particular, Korean companies have taken the lead in launching products that incorporate AI (Artificial Intelligence) and IoT (Internet of Things) technologies, providing personalized user experiences and building smart home ecosystems. This has allowed consumers to enjoy greater convenience and connectivity in their daily lives.

Furthermore, in line with the growing global preference for premium design, they continue to lead the market by offering customized premium products that combine both design and functionality.

Alongside this, Korean companies are also reinforcing ESG management by responding proactively to global trends toward carbon neutrality and stricter energy regulations. This includes increasing the share of products with top-tier energy efficiency and using recycled plastics. At OVIO, we’re also expanding our eco-friendly infrastructure by adopting environmentally friendly refrigerant technologies and installing solar power systems, thereby establishing a sustainable manufacturing base. We are actively participating in the global eco-friendly movement.

What many people may not realize is that most consumer electronics and appliance brands rely heavily on a broad supply chain, which includes numerous suppliers and SMEs providing key technologies. What role do OEMs and ODMs play in supporting both major brands and rising players in expanding internationally or meeting environmental regulations?

Many consumers only see the finished products bearing brand logos and are often unaware of the numerous technology providers, SMEs, and OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and ODM (Original Design Manufacturer) specialists working behind the scenes. In reality, the electronics and home appliance industries are powered by a robust global supply chain made up of these partners. They play a strategic role in supporting brand companies as they expand into international markets and adapt to increasingly strict environmental regulations.

OEMs are responsible for manufacturing, allowing brands to focus on planning and marketing while ensuring high quality and production efficiency. ODMs provide end-to-end solutions that cover everything from initial planning and design to prototyping and mass production. This enables joint product development aligned with market demands. The ODM model is especially effective in executing localization strategies and targeting premium market segments. It also helps brands overcome technical challenges and adapt quickly to regulatory changes.

Specialized OEM and ODM companies like OVIO have built advanced design capabilities and production optimization expertise through years of collaboration with global brands. By prioritizing manufacturing excellence and investing in R&D, we develop trend-responsive products as well as environmentally friendly components and systems that meet each country’s regulatory requirements.

OVIO’s well-established systems and global experience also enable us to obtain international certifications efficiently. These include CE, UL, FCC, ETL, and PSE, covering safety, emissions, and energy standards. We offer a high degree of flexibility in customizing product design, features, materials, and user interfaces based on each client’s specific needs.

In doing so, OVIO has positioned itself not just as a manufacturing partner but as a global OEM and ODM specialist that collaborates on product strategies and supports successful market entry for our clients.

You hold a unique position in Korea, supplying major clients like Samsung and Coway, but you’re also working with several Japanese brands—both large and small—and exporting over 70% of your products. As an OEM in the consumer market, what challenges have you faced in expanding overseas and convincing other countries that Korea is a reliable manufacturing hub?

In the early stages of entering overseas markets, it’s true that the level of trust in South Korea as a manufacturing country was not as high as it is today. This was especially true in the OEM and ODM sectors, where companies had to prove their technological and quality competitiveness on their own. Building cooperative relationships with brand clients required significant time and effort. In some markets, awareness of Korean products was low, and they were often compared solely based on price with Chinese products. However, OVIO overcame these challenges step by step through refined technological expertise, a smart factory-based manufacturing environment, precise delivery responsiveness, and flexible customization capabilities.

Perceptions still vary by industry and region, but OVIO’s water purifier and water dispenser products have been highly regarded in global markets for their excellent quality, sophisticated design, and differentiated value propositions. As a result, we have continued to strengthen both brand trust and market position.

In particular, in Japan—a market known for its strict quality standards and trust-based business culture—OVIO has successfully built long-term partnerships by developing products that closely reflect local consumer needs, maintaining meticulous quality control, and communicating with sincerity. We have gone beyond the role of a simple manufacturer to become a strategic partner that provides customized solutions aligned with each client’s brand philosophy, taking full responsibility for end-to-end development and after-sales support.

Currently, OVIO exports over 70% of its total production overseas, working not only with leading domestic brands like Samsung and Coway but also with various global companies, including those in Japan. These results demonstrate that OVIO is recognized not as a short-term supplier but as a long-term strategic partner. Guided by the principles of “quality that keeps its promise” and “technology that delivers customer value,” we take pride in contributing to the global perception of Korea as a trustworthy manufacturing hub.

South Korea has now established itself as a global manufacturing powerhouse with proven technology, quality, and delivery reliability. At the heart of this, OVIO continues to grow as an ODM/OEM specialist that practically supports our clients’ competitiveness and sustainable growth.

Despite being a developed economy, more American consumers are now investing in home water purification systems. This has traditionally been more common in developing countries, where infrastructure is less developed. From a global perspective, how do you see demand for home water purifiers evolving, and which regions do you see as the biggest opportunities for growth?

The global water purifier market has been steadily expanding, with a stable annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6–8%. As awareness around health and hygiene increases, water purifiers have become a common household item. In particular, efforts to reduce plastic bottled water consumption and rising interest in reducing carbon emissions have driven a sharp increase in demand for eco-friendly water purifiers. Since the pandemic, growing distrust of tap water and heightened sensitivity to hygiene have become key factors contributing to market expansion.

OVIO has built a successful export track record across a wide range of markets, including Japan, North America (the U.S. and Chile), Europe, Southeast Asia (Singapore and Vietnam), and South Africa. Based on this experience, we analyze local water quality and consumer preferences in each region to offer optimized product solutions.

OVIO World Map

In particular, we are expanding our presence in regions where demand is rapidly growing such as Southeast Asia and India, where high population density and underdeveloped water infrastructure are driving household and office purifier needs; the Middle East and North Africa, where extreme water scarcity and hot climates are accelerating market growth; and North America and Europe, where demand is increasingly centered on stylish, eco-friendly, and smart-function products.

Today, water purifiers are no longer seen as simple water filtration devices—they are essential lifestyle products that promote health and wellness. In line with this shift, OVIO provides a diversified product lineup tailored to each region’s unique needs and is enhancing global competitiveness through sustainable product development and continuous innovation.

You mentioned that water purifiers require a minimum level of water quality to function effectively. However, I’d imagine that in countries with poor water infrastructure, filters need to be more advanced—and therefore more expensive—while in places like North America or Europe, filters can be more affordable, and consumers focus more on design and cost. How do you navigate this challenge of balancing high performance and affordability, especially while competing with Chinese manufacturers?

Price competition in the global home appliance market is intensifying, and OVIO is pursuing differentiation not by simply lowering prices but by maximizing the quality-to-price ratio. When competing against low-cost products, OVIO delivers value that exceeds expectations by offering precise engineering, reliable quality, and tailored technological capabilities, even at comparable price points.

“As we often say, a lower price does not necessarily mean a lower total cost. True competitiveness comes from minimizing hidden costs such as defect rates, delivery delays, and after-sales service issues.”

In the water purifier and dispenser sectors, OVIO collaborates with numerous global brands to deliver products that are technologically advanced, well-designed, and trusted by users. Our approach provides customers with a compelling value proposition built around quality.

At the same time, we have achieved cost efficiency through part standardization, design optimization, and an automated manufacturing environment, all while maintaining global-level quality control. This allows us to offer dependable products that earn long-term customer trust.

In markets with strict environmental regulations, including North America, Europe, and Japan, OVIO is equipped to obtain key certifications such as CE, RoHS, and FCC efficiently. We also provide customized design, on-time delivery, and strong after-sales service that align with each client’s specific needs.

Our internal systems allow us to respond quickly to customer requirements and shift smoothly into new product development. With this agility and responsiveness, OVIO continues to maintain a competitive edge in the global market.

Established in 1998, OVIO specializes in ODM and OEM water purifiers and water coolers. In recent years, you’ve partnered with major players like Coway Japan and collaborated with Samsung Electronics on their advanced BESPOKE Water Purifier. Could you walk us through some of the key milestones in OVIO’s journey?

OVIO’s rise to become a trusted partner in today’s global premium home appliance market is the result of years of accumulated experience and strategic investments.

First, our experience collaborating with global brands. Through joint projects with international brand partners, OVIO has established a global-level development and manufacturing process that spans planning, quality management, delivery, and certification response. By meeting strict quality audits and certification standards, we have built robust capabilities in premium product design and mass production optimization. These experiences have laid the foundation for OVIO products to meet world-class standards.

Second, the enhancement of manufacturing competitiveness through smart factory adoption. By building a large-scale automated production system, we have significantly reduced quality variance. Our highly skilled production line operations have shortened lead times and vastly improved delivery responsiveness. We also ensure transparency across the entire manufacturing process through a Point of Production tracking system, which supports systematic post-launch management and after-sales service. Notably, we’ve internalized our filter supply capabilities by establishing an automated production line for water purifier filters.

OVIO Head Office

Third, our in-house R&D capabilities. Since establishing a corporate-affiliated research center in 2013, OVIO has built a development system focused on design and technology. Approximately 30% of our workforce is dedicated to R&D, driving continuous innovation. We design trend-responsive products in-house and have secured a wide range of domestic and international patents. To date, we have developed over 100 models of water purifiers and hot & cold dispensers.

OVIO Product Line-up

Fourth, the expansion of technology and product portfolio. The year 2024 marked a turning point for OVIO, as we clearly defined our future direction. That year, OVIO launched nine self-developed water purifier and hot/cold dispenser models. We also began actively expanding our product portfolio by leveraging our core drinking water technologies to develop ice-making water purifiers, sparkling water dispensers, and coffee machines.

These milestones reflect the path OVIO has taken to grow into a trusted ODM/OEM partner in the global market. Moving forward, OVIO aims to evolve beyond providing "clean water" to becoming a global ODM/OEM specialist that enhances quality of life.

You also brand some of your own products, which I assume is for showcasing your ODM and OEM capabilities. Looking forward, how do you envision OVIO’s future? With over two decades of experience, do you see yourselves becoming a dominant OEM/ODM manufacturer, or is there an ambition to grow the OVIO brand for end consumers?

As a global ODM/OEM specialist, OVIO plans to focus on diversifying its product lineup within the B2B sector. Beyond our core offerings of water purifiers and hot/cold dispensers, we are actively expanding into a wider range of water-based appliances such as sparkling water dispensers, ice-making water purifiers, ice makers, and coffee machines. This is not simply about increasing the number of products—it is a strategic move to provide specialized solutions that align with client needs and evolving market trends.

Looking ahead, OVIO will continue to strengthen its leadership in technology innovation, design, and quality across the ODM/OEM space. Our mission is to grow alongside our clients as a trusted partner, doing our utmost to help their brands deliver differentiated value in the marketplace.

Are you referring to expanding features within a single product or launching entirely new product categories?

OVIO’s product expansion strategy is a hybrid approach that combines two directions: enhancing existing products with added functionalities, and developing entirely new product categories.

OVIO: 2-in-1 water purifier offers customization options, with a single filtration system

To increase the value of our current product lines, we are incorporating features such as smart capabilities and eco-friendly technologies into our water purifiers and hot/cold dispensers. This enhances product performance while providing users with a more differentiated and enriched experience.

At the same time, we are expanding into new water-based appliance categories—including sparkling water dispensers, ice-making water purifiers, standalone ice makers, and coffee machines. These new offerings reflect both client demands and emerging market trends, enabling us to deliver more specialized solutions. When developing new product categories, we also consider how they can create synergies with existing products, ultimately offering more options to the market.

Through this dual-track strategy, OVIO is meeting a wide range of market needs while building an innovative product lineup that delivers differentiated value to our clients.

One unique strength of OVIO is your implementation of a smart factory, which helps improve both quality and cost efficiency. This likely gives you greater flexibility to adapt your product range based on regional needs, client requirements, or custom features. Could you explain more about your smart factory system and how it gives you a competitive advantage?

OVIO was the first in the domestic industry to implement a smart factory and has continued to invest annually in the latest equipment and technologies to enhance production efficiency and product quality. Since the adoption of the smart factory system, we have seen significant improvements across multiple areas.

OVIO Smart Factory

First, by automating the inspection process and implementing a data-driven production management system, we have minimized quality variation between products and drastically reduced defect rates. Real-time monitoring of the production line has also enabled more accurate delivery scheduling and faster resolution of quality issues.

Second, our flexible manufacturing system allows us to respond to diverse customization needs and support low-volume, multi-model production. We currently have the production capacity to manufacture up to 720,000 units annually—about 3,000 units per day.

Third, every stage of production is supported by a smart factory-based product traceability system. This enables transparent tracking of production history and the collection of quantitative quality data, which strengthens our ability to meet global certification standards and improves post-sales service reliability.

OVIO Smart Factory POP(Point of Production) System

Fourth, OVIO is the only company in the industry to implement the non-welded LOCK-Ring technology, which significantly enhances product hygiene and durability. This innovation has raised our overall product quality and allowed us to offer greater value to our customers.

In addition, by integrating production planning and material supply in real time, we’ve minimized waste and established a system for producing high-quality products with zero error. This creates real, tangible value for our clients.

OVIO will continue to invest in smart technologies, including industrial robots, to pursue stable quality and improved productivity. Our goal goes beyond improving production efficiency—we aim to further solidify our position as a global ODM/OEM leader. Our smart factory system is not just about automation; it enables precise quality control and production optimization, reinforcing trust with our clients.

We are committed to offering customized solutions that meet client needs and will continue to strengthen our competitiveness in the global market through technological excellence and product quality. OVIO’s smart factory will continue to lead industrial innovation and drive sustainable growth.

One area where you're investing significant effort is in R&D—developing new features, improving hygiene, and integrating eco-friendly materials and systems. At the factory level, you’re even implementing in-house renewable energy to enhance your ESG performance. Could you elaborate on the different R&D initiatives you're currently pursuing?

OVIO is committed to developing next-generation technologies that enhance consumer health, safety, sustainability, and convenience—core values that define our R&D strategy.

OVIO R&D Center

First, we are focused on advancing contaminant removal and hygiene technologies. OVIO continues to invest in high-performance filtration systems capable of effectively removing harmful substances such as microplastics, heavy metals, and residual pharmaceuticals. In particular, we have proactively completed testing to comply with PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) regulations, a growing global concern, in order to strengthen product safety. To maintain hygiene inside water purifiers and plumbing systems, we have also developed modular solutions using various sterilization technologies such as UV-C, thermal sterilization, and electrolyzed water to ensure the protection of consumer health.

OVIO Tankless Water Purifier

Second, we are accelerating the development of eco-friendly and sustainable technologies. OVIO is researching high-efficiency cooling and ice-making systems to reduce energy consumption and lower carbon emissions, as part of our commitment to combating climate change. We are also transitioning our refrigerant systems to use environmentally friendly alternatives, such as R600a and R290a, which have a significantly lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) than conventional refrigerants.

Third, we are focused on user-centric and market-specific innovation. OVIO actively reflects the unique characteristics of each target market in its product development. For instance, in Japan, where small living spaces and limited plumbing access are common, we developed a refillable water purifier that operates without direct water connection, improving installation flexibility and user convenience. Additionally, we are expanding our lineup to include solutions for functional water types, such as hydrogen water and sparkling water, delivering customized solutions to meet diverse client needs.

OVIO Installation-free Water Purifier

OVIO’s Installation-free water purifier allows for water storage in the included water reservoir, without direct plumbing connection, which makes it portable and compatible with various environments

Building on this R&D strategy, OVIO will continue to diversify its product lineup across next-generation water purifiers, hot/cold dispensers, a wide range of ice dispensers, and both bean-to-cup and capsule coffee machines, further strengthening our global market competitiveness.

You mentioned that developing your own filter technology is a major focus. Could you tell us more about the filtration technologies you're using today?

OVIO develops and manufactures water purification filters under strict quality control, backed by a hygienic, smart production line and proprietary technologies.

OVIO Smart Factory Filter Line

Water purifier filters are essential components that directly impact human health, as they process drinking water. For this reason, OVIO carries out the entire filter production process in a cleanroom environment, thoroughly blocking external contaminants such as fine dust, microorganisms, and chemicals. We follow strict hygiene protocols, including controlled temperature and humidity systems, air purification management, and the use of sanitary clothing, all within a fully automated manufacturing system.

Every step of the process—cutting, forming, sealing, and assembling filter materials—is performed with high precision using advanced automated equipment. Key quality metrics, such as internal compression strength, moisture content, and pressure resistance, are carefully monitored to ensure consistently high-quality output.

We also apply sterilization techniques such as UV treatment and high-temperature steam, and each filter is individually packaged to maintain cleanliness. A traceability system is in place to log production history, quality data, and lot numbers, enabling accurate management of filter replacement schedules and certification compliance. Only filters that pass our dedicated performance testing are approved for shipment.

OVIO currently offers a comprehensive range of filters, including sediment, pre-carbon, UF, RO, and post-carbon types. We also produce advanced multi-stage filters that integrate multiple functions into a single unit. Additionally, we are expanding into specialty filters designed to produce hydrogen water, mineral water, and alkaline water. Moving forward, we will continue to invest in high-performance filtration systems that maximize contaminant removal efficiency.

Throughout the conversation, you've emphasized that you're not just manufacturing products or offering technology—you also guide your clients in the design process, helping them select the right features for different markets. How do you typically collaborate with your clients to develop and manufacture a product?

At OVIO, product development starts with a comprehensive analysis of each client’s requirements. Once we understand their specific needs, we design products that reflect market trends and target consumer preferences, all while staying true to the client’s brand philosophy. Dedicated teams ensure close, ongoing communication throughout the process, enabling quick responses and reinforcing trust-based collaboration.

Our development workflow follows a clear, step-by-step structure: Marketing & Design Release, Engineering Release, and Development Pilot Production. At every stage, we conduct rigorous technical reviews and quality tests to improve the product’s completeness. Only products that pass the final validation in the Line Pilot Production phase move into full-scale Mass Production. This disciplined approach ensures product stability and market readiness.

We operate through a collaborative system involving five core departments: Development, Manufacturing, Quality, Sales, and Marketing. These teams work closely together, exchanging feedback, coordinating schedules, and aligning their efforts to deliver high-quality results that meet client expectations.

Following a product launch, we maintain a structured post-launch support system that includes real-time VOC (Voice of Customer) feedback, after-sales service, certification management, and continuous improvement tracking.

OVIO is more than a supplier. We aim to be a collaborative and transparent global ODM/OEM partner, offering flexible solutions and building long-term partnerships based on mutual growth and trust.

In 2024, OVIO recorded $880 million in sales (based on an exchange rate of 1 USD = 1,350 KRW), with more than 70% generated from overseas markets. Over the past 27 years, you’ve achieved steady export growth not only in major markets like Japan, the U.S., and Singapore but also in emerging markets such as South Africa and Chile. How do you envision OVIO’s global strategy and vision over the next 3 to 5 years?

Over the past 27 years, OVIO has established itself as a global ODM/OEM specialist by leveraging proprietary technologies and deep production expertise to support the meaningful growth of our clients. In the next three to five years, we aim to take the next leap forward as a leading partner in the global market, driven by technology innovation and customized manufacturing capabilities.

Our strategy starts with a thorough analysis of international standards and environmental regulations in each region. We plan to strengthen our localization efforts by aligning with the unique characteristics of local markets and addressing the specific needs of each client’s brand. Rather than simply supplying products, we are committed to delivering comprehensive water-based appliance solutions that elevate brand value. This principle remains central to our global strategy.

At the same time, we will continue to invest in R&D and smart manufacturing infrastructure to further enhance our technological advantage. Our goal is to combine flexibility and precision, enabling us to support both small-batch, multi-model production and large-scale manufacturing—across everything from essential models to high-end, feature-rich premium products.

At OVIO, we aim to be a partner that designs for perfection and builds trust. Through ongoing innovation, collaborative responsiveness, and sustainable manufacturing practices, we are focused on building long-term partnerships. Ultimately, our vision is to become a global water care platform company that delivers lasting value around the world.

In just a few sentences, what message would you like readers to take away from your contribution?

OVIO is a partner that brings our clients’ brand philosophies to life through technology. We go beyond simple manufacturing by striving for perfection—quickly understanding client needs, responding with agility, and delivering products of the highest quality. Our focus is not on short-term fulfillment, but on building long-term partnerships grounded in trust.

As a global ODM/OEM specialist, OVIO offers a diverse portfolio of water-based appliances, including water purifiers, hot and cold dispensers, sparkling water systems, ice-making purifiers, ice makers, and coffee machines.

We hope readers will remember OVIO through three key words: quality, technology, and partnership. Guided by the belief that our clients’ success is our success, we remain committed to being a strong and trusted partner in the years to come.

For more information please visit: https://www.ovio.com/