PROJECTS
TheKey U.S. Market Entry
Client:
TheKey Inc.
Date:
Oct 20, 2026
Location:
Kansas City, MO
Service:
Market Entry Advisory, AI Consulting, Marketing Strategy
Project Overview
TheKey is a Korean company that combines AI-based skin analysis with personalized, custom cosmetics. As TheKey prepared to expand beyond Korea, Linkplus and founder Ben Ahn advised the company on entering the U.S. market, from initial research through location strategy, partnerships, AI support and marketing planning.
Objective
Assess the U.S. Market Opportunity
Understand the U.S. landscape and how TheKey's AI skin analysis and custom cosmetics could fit it.
Choose the Right U.S. Base
Identify a practical home base for operations and distribution in the U.S.
Build the Right Network
Connect TheKey with the partners and strategic people needed to launch.
Prepare for Launch
Support the company with practical AI guidance and a clear marketing plan.
Scope of Work
1. U.S. Market Research & Assessment
Researched and assessed the U.S. market for TheKey's products and services.
Provided guidance to inform the company's U.S. entry decisions.
2. Location Strategy: Kansas City
Recommended Kansas City as a strong U.S. base.
Highlighted its central U.S. location and access to U.S. distribution networks.
3. Partner & Network Connections
Connected TheKey with needed partners and strategic people in the U.S.
4. AI Advisory & Technical Support
Provided practical AI-related advice and technical support.
5. Marketing Planning
Developed marketing planning for TheKey's U.S. entry.
Outcome
TheKey successfully established its U.S. company. Ben Ahn now leads TheKey's U.S. branch, and the company is preparing new products and services for the U.S. market.
PROJECT
