Korean Cosmetics in Vietnam: Notification Tips for K-Beauty Brands

Korean skincare and make-up are among the most popular imported beauty products in Vietnam. Many K-beauty brands already sell to Vietnamese shoppers through cross-border channels, but to build an official presence in retail and on marketplaces, each product needs a cosmetic notification in Vietnam. This guide covers the points that most often slow Korean brands down. It reflects our experience working with Korean beauty partners; it is not legal advice.

1. One notification per product, shade and scent

Since the amended cosmetic rules took effect on 18 August 2025 (Circular 34/2025/TT-BYT amending Circular 06/2011/TT-BYT), each product is notified on its own form, and shades or scents of the same line are notified separately, except hair dyes and perfumes. For cushions, tints, lip products and foundations with many shades, plan the number of notifications early: it affects timeline and budget.

2. Ingredients: check against ASEAN lists

Vietnam applies the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive. An ingredient or concentration that is allowed in Korea may be restricted or not permitted under the ASEAN annexes. Check every ingredient, preservative, UV filter and colourant before you file, and adjust the formula for Vietnam if needed.

3. Claims: “functional cosmetics” are still cosmetics

Korean “functional cosmetics” claims such as brightening, anti-wrinkle or sun protection can be used if they fit the cosmetic definition and are supported by data in the Product Information File. Claims that suggest treating a condition, such as “cures acne” or “treats hair loss”, are not acceptable for cosmetics in Vietnam.

4. Documents

• full formula with INCI names and concentrations;
• Certificate of Free Sale from the competent Korean authority or authorised body, legalised where required;
• letter of authorisation from the brand owner to the Vietnamese company;
• label artwork and, for sunscreens, SPF and PA test data kept in the PIF.

5. Labels

Korean labels must show the product name, origin and manufacturer at import. Before sale, add a Vietnamese sub-label with the mandatory cosmetic information, including the batch number, date and warnings, under Decree 37/2026/ND-CP. Labels printed before 23 January 2026 can be used until 23 January 2028.

6. Import duty

Korean cosmetics can benefit from preferential duty under the Vietnam–Korea FTA (VKFTA) or the ASEAN–Korea FTA (AKFTA) with a valid certificate of origin. Check which agreement gives the better rate for each HS code.

7. Channels

K-beauty sells strongly on Shopee, Lazada and TikTok Shop and through beauty retail chains. An official store run by your Vietnamese importer, with notified products and Vietnamese content, builds more trust than grey-market listings.

How Hoang Bao Minh Vietnam can help

We work with Korean beauty brands, including skincare and cosmetics development partners. We check formulas and claims, file notifications for every shade, import, label and sell through retail and e-commerce. See our cosmetic notification service, the full cosmetic notification guide and our e-commerce solutions.

Frequently asked questions

Does each colour of a cushion or lipstick need its own notification?

Yes. Since August 2025, shades and scents of the same line are notified separately, except hair dyes and perfumes.

Can we keep our Korean packaging?

Yes. Keep the original label and add a Vietnamese sub-label before the products are put on sale.

Last reviewed: November 2026. This article is general information, not legal advice.