How to recognize genuine Korean cosmetics: How to protect yourself from fakes

The demand for Korean cosmetics has risen enormously in recent years – but unfortunately, so has the number of counterfeit products. Many consumers are therefore asking themselves: How can I recognize genuine Korean cosmetics?

This article will tell you how to recognize original products, how to correctly check EAN codes, and which security features will help you reliably avoid K-Beauty fakes.

1. Why authenticity is so important in Korean cosmetics

Original products from Korea are strictly regulated, dermatologically tested and approved according to European standards.
Counterfeits, on the other hand, pose real risks – they often contain inferior or undeclared ingredients, can trigger allergies, or are simply manufactured unhygienically.

Genuine Korean brands invest heavily in research, quality, and the stability of their formulas – fakes, on the other hand, only copy the design.
Those who rely on certified Korean cosmetic originals not only protect their skin, but also their health.

2. The most important features of genuine K-Beauty products

If you want to recognize authentic Korean cosmetics, there are several clear characteristics you should look out for:

Check EAN code

A sure sign of originality is the EAN code, which begins with "880".
This number identifies products that were actually manufactured in South Korea.

Packaging and print quality

Pay attention to clear typography, high-quality labels, and clean printing.
Forgeries often appear blurry or contain spelling mistakes in Korean or English.

EU Responsible Person

Every genuine imported product should have an official EU address on it.
This label shows that the product has been approved and registered in the EU – a must for legal sale.

QR codes and security labels

Many Korean brands – e.g., COSRX, Beauty of Joseon or TIRTIR – include QR labels or serial numbers on their packaging, which you can scan online to verify authenticity.

3. Common warning signs of counterfeits

It's not always possible to spot a fake at first glance – but some clues are typical:
A suspiciously low price: If a "bestseller" is suddenly 70% cheaper, you should be skeptical.
Missing labels or seals: Original products always have batch numbers or best before dates.
Unfamiliar smell or altered texture: This is a warning sign, especially with creams or toners.
Unclear origin: If the retailer does not specify an exact product source or EU Responsible Person.

4. Understanding original versions correctly

Many buyers are confused if the packaging or writing differs slightly – but this does not automatically mean that it is a counterfeit.

Korean brands produce different original versions for:

the domestic Korean market,
the EU market (with EU Responsible Person),
as well as US or international exports.

These variants often differ only in design or language marking, not in product quality.

For example, the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Cream has a different label design in Korea than the EU version – but both are original and identical in formulation.

5. Conclusion: Trust begins at the source.

Authentic Korean cosmetics mean tested quality, safe ingredients, and visible results.
Counterfeits cut corners at precisely these points – and jeopardize the trust that K-Beauty has built up worldwide.

If you want to ensure that your products are authentic, only buy them from verified retailers with EU approval.

Verify the authenticity of your product in the K-Beauty Authenticity Database

Here you'll find verified brands like Beauty of Joseon, Purito, COSRX, Anua and many more – guaranteed authentic, registered and safe. Link

FAQ: How to recognize authentic Korean cosmetics

How can I identify genuine Korean cosmetics by their EAN number?
Originals usually bear an EAN that begins with "880" – that is the official country code for South Korea.
Are products without an EU address automatically counterfeit?
Not necessarily – some originals are intended for the Korean market. However, for sales within the EU, a "Responsible Person" address is mandatory.
Can I identify counterfeit products by their scent or texture?
Often, yes. Fake products smell more strongly perfumed or feel more watery or greasy.
What should I do if I suspect a counterfeit?
Contact the retailer or check the product via QR code or serial number on the brand's website.
Which shops guarantee they sell authentic Korean cosmetics?
For example, the shops: korean-cosmetics-shop.de and happyandpretty.de
We exclusively offer EU-registered original products with verified origin.