South Korea's beauty industry has emerged as a dominant force worldwide, with its glossy skin, straight bleach-tinted hair, and popular faces shaping global beauty trends, a trend that has now also engulfed Japan. The rise of Korean cosmetology exports has been remarkable, showcasing a 219% increase from 2017 to 2023, surpassing Japan's traditional import reliance on French beauty products. This shift signifies a new era where Korean beauty regimens, known for being effective and affordable, reign supreme, offering consumers the promise of achieving the coveted yuri pibu, or glass skin look, popularized by K-pop idol groups like BTS and stunning actor-models like Jun Ji-hyun.

Kay Lan, an international business development counselor based at Ginza's Bianca Clinic, notes that the beauty preferences and demands in Korea and Japan are increasingly becoming aligned. The desire for shiny, moisturized skin that dominates Korean beauty trends is seamlessly taking root in Japan, indicating a convergence in skincare preferences between the two countries. As consumers across borders seek to emulate the flawless complexion epitomized by Korean celebrities, the adoption of Korean beauty practices in Japan highlights a cultural exchange in the pursuit of smooth, healthy, and youthful skin.