Korean Cosmetics Labels: A Practical Glossary for International Shoppers
An English glossary of selected Korean cosmetic packaging terms, with references to Korean and U.S. regulators.
A Korean beauty product may arrive with information in Korean, English or additional languages depending on the market. This glossary translates selected terms appearing in guidance from Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS). It helps you locate information; it does not replace the full instructions on the actual package.
Label terms you may see
- 화장품의 명칭: the name of the cosmetic product. Check the full variant as well as the brand.
- 제조번호: the manufacturing or lot number. Keep it with your purchase record; it is not necessarily an expiry date.
- 사용기한 또는 개봉 후 사용기간: the use-by date or period after opening. Follow the specific product’s marking and instructions.
- 해당 화장품 제조에 사용된 모든 성분: the ingredients used in the cosmetic. Ask the seller or manufacturer for a legible full list if needed.
- 내용물 용량 또는 중량: net quantity or weight. Check the unit and whether it refers to one item or the full set.
- 사용시 주의사항: precautions for use. Read these alongside the directions, including any area-of-use restrictions.
- 기능성화장품: functional cosmetic. This is a Korean regulatory category and does not by itself establish a product’s status in another country.
What if the listing and package differ?
Product images and translations may not show every variant or recent formulation. Compare the exact product name, size and ingredient list with the package and contact the seller or manufacturer if information is missing or inconsistent. Avoid guessing at instructions when you cannot understand a warning.
Use the whole label, not a single term
MFDS lists information required on cosmetic packaging in Korea, while requirements for export and the destination market can differ. The U.S. FDA also advises reading the entire label, including ingredients, warnings and use directions. Neither an ingredient name nor a regulatory category alone guarantees suitability for your skin.
For more context on Korea’s functional cosmetics category and the differences between markets, see THE CAST’s related guide below. If a product causes a reaction, stop using it and seek appropriate medical advice.