Solozen's True View Flip Case model has a transparent PC screen window and cutout for the mobile phone speaker. It doubles as a stand.

Manufacturers in South Korea pursue further product differentiation to buoy line amid intense competition.

South Korea suppliers of TPU mobile phone cases continue to strengthen the line, capitalizing on product advantages such as wear and abrasion resistance, and design flexibility. They press on with enhancement initiatives under efforts to create differentiation in a highly saturated market.

Companies such as Mercury Corp. implement two or three additional processes after injection molding. The maker uses UV and pearl surface treatments for better scratch resistance, more-vivid colors and higher gloss levels. It ensures releases withstand wear by up to three years.

iNano TND is working on reducing the thickness of cases owing to the material’s property, while Mercury is developing more close-fit models. Solozen Co. Ltd, on the other hand, is exploring alternative inputs to realize slimmer models while maintaining its TPU-based range to meet buyer preference for durability and functionality.

Besides these improvements, suppliers emphasize trendy features as mobile phone cases are considered fashion accessories as well. iNano is therefore tapping professional design houses to come up with stylish models. “Of course, we need to add extra functions to them. Some examples are cases with storage space for transport or credit cards,” said James Lee, iNano’s overseas sales director.

Greater shock absorption will remain on manufacturers’ product agenda as they take advantage of the trend for phone protection in markets such as North America and Europe. They usually adopt double injection to reinforce this feature as back cover types stay popular. Some combine TPU and PC.

Despite the cost impact on from these initiatives, South Korea companies are keeping prices unchanged to compete with China counterparts. They offer a range of models to widen buyer options. Solozen’s quotes start at $3 for entry-level items and reach $10 for high-end versions. At Mercury, rates are from $1.20 to $2.20, depending on the features.

Suppliers export their products mainly to Japan and Europe. Besides the first destination, iNano ships 60 percent of output to North America and the Middle East. It considers South America a promising market. Mercury sends half of yield to Europe, Southeast Asia, and North and South America. Solozen’s overseas markets are North America and Europe. The company will target Russia in coming years.

Makers in South Korea are mostly small and midsize operations, with two or three key players only. The majority of the companies are based in Seoul and Kyung-ki province.

Product gallery

iNano TND
Model: Slimpack Plus for Galaxy Note 3
MOQ: 200 pieces
Delivery: 7 days
Description: TPU and PC; UV-coated to minimize scratches; card slot; cutouts for easy access to buttons, ports

iNano TND
Model: Slimpack Plus for iPhone 5S
MOQ: 200 pieces
Delivery: 7 days
Description: TPU and PC; UV-coated to minimize scratches; card slot; cutouts for easy access to buttons, ports

Mercury Corp.
Model: Mercury Jelly (TPU) Case
Description: For Samsung Galaxy Note 3; glossy pearl finish; in various colors

Mercury Corp.
Model: Mercury Jelly (TPU) Case
Description: For iPhone 5s; glossy pearl finish; in various colors

Solozen Co. Ltd
Model: Viewty Flip Cover
Description: Screen window, cutout for speaker; scratch-resistant; in various colors

Solozen Co. Ltd
Model: True View Flip Case
Description: Transparent PC screen window, cutout for speaker; scratch-resistant; doubles as stand; in various colors