Coming home through self-care: How a Korean adoptee built a wellness brand between cultures

Marie Perruchet was born in Seoul but was raised in Normandy, France after being adopted at 18 months. She has lived in ten countries and has a deep understanding of the cultures she has experienced. Before returning to Korea, she worked as a correspondent for the BBC and spent years in Silicon Valley. It was in Korea that she founded Clapoti, a wellness brand in 2022.

Perruchet describes Clapoti as "loved in Paris and perfected by Korean heritage." The brand combines Korean manufacturing innovation, French sensory and scent tradition, and an American instinct for functional, no-nonsense packaging. Growing up in France, Perruchet had limited representation in beauty magazines and struggled to find products that catered to her skin tone. She also recalled a stylist who did not know how to style her hair.

Clapoti's mission is to bridge the gap between cultures and provide beauty products that are designed for everyone. By incorporating elements from Korean and French beauty traditions, Perruchet has created a brand that is both unique and inclusive. The packaging is designed to be functional and easy to use, while the scents and textures evoke a sense of comfort and familiarity.

Perruchet's personal journey has shaped Clapoti's philosophy of self-care and wellness, and the brand has quickly gained popularity among customers who value its innovative approach to beauty.