When KBio Inc. closed its doors, Owensboro-based biologist Dr. Jun Oh saw opportunity instead of an ending.
After years of developing plant-based biologics as a senior scientist, he used his background in molecular biology to create two brands — one for people and another for horses — that are rooted in compassion, science, and faith.
“My background in molecular biology gave me a deep understanding of how skin cells respond to stress, inflammation, and healing signals,” Oh said. “I used that knowledge to design formulas that truly calm, repair, and protect sensitive skin.”
Oh and his wife Jane Yang co-founded HunYule, a clean skincare line designed for dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin. The inspiration came when their infant son developed eczema and conventional creams offered no relief.
“We didn’t want to put steroid cream on our baby’s skin,” Oh said. “So, I decided to create a natural formula myself, one that could bring real relief without any harmful side effects.”
That formula — made entirely from vegan, chemical-free ingredients — healed his son’s skin and sparked the creation of HunYule, which offers moisturizing, soothing, and brightening collections. Oh said each product combines K-beauty innovation with botanical science, using kimchi-derived probiotics as natural preservatives.
“Our mission is to offer skincare that’s both effective and safe for the most vulnerable skin from babies to seniors,” he said.
Products are currently available at Gene’s Health Food in Owensboro, Grounded Market in Jasper, Indiana, and online at hunyule.com.
Building on that success, Oh launched Verdant Equus, a human-grade skincare line for horses. The products use similar plant-based formulas to soothe wounds, relieve itching, and treat skin irritation — particularly during Kentucky’s hot, humid summers.
“I realized that horses also have very sensitive skin,” Oh said. “They have a lot of itch in the summer season, and climate change has expanded that suffering season. I applied my formula to horse skin, and it worked well.”
He said the products, which are now being tested and distributed in Owensboro, have already drawn interest from veterinarians and horse owners looking for safe, natural alternatives.
Although KBio’s closure prompted a major career change, Oh said he and his family never considered leaving Owensboro.
“Our family chose to stay because we love Owensboro,” he said. “This community has welcomed us with kindness and warmth, and we’re proud to build our businesses right here at home.”
Both brands, Oh said, reflect a personal mission grounded in faith.
“I believe healing should be safe, natural, and rooted in love,” he said. “As a Christian, I see caring for others through our work as part of our calling to love and serve those in need.”
Verdant Equus products are available at verdantequus.com.
