The short answer
To import Korean cosmetics to Japan, choose a sourcing route matched to your volume, budget for notification, labeling, and customs, and verify supplier licenses before committing.
Korea has become Japan's largest source of imported cosmetics, with a share of imported cosmetics above 30% and strong year-over-year growth. This guide covers sourcing routes, regulatory basics, and cost planning for Japanese EC operators, drugstores, and select shops.
Sourcing routes include direct brand contracts, authorized distributors, OEM or private-label manufacturing, and B2B wholesale platforms. Each route differs in minimum order quantities, unit economics, and how much control you keep over claims and labeling.
On the Japan side, cosmetics require notification, Japanese labeling, and claims compliant with the Pharmaceutical and Medical Devices Act. Unverifiable functional claims are not allowed, and the importer bears responsibility for compliance.
Cost planning should include minimum order quantities, per-unit landed cost, FOB versus CIF terms, customs clearance, warehousing, and return conditions. Small differences in these estimates can change whether a line is profitable.
An agency helps verify suppliers and manufacturing licenses, review labeling compliance, and plan channels and demand. Contract risk is reduced when terms are checked before commitment.