TCYM. Always Authentic.
TCYM TCG
- Hold a light (a phone light works perfectly) around 10 inches away from your card.
- Move the card from side to side, authentic Pokemon cards will show diagonal holographic lines. Fake cards will not show the diagonal lines.
Note: This is slightly more difficult to see on an EX card due to the glitter effect
Genuine EX and above cards display distinct diagonal shine lines that run consistently across the holographic surface. This only possible with the higher quality printing process of authentic cards and cannot be replicated by lower-quality counterfeit printing.
We are always happy to provide
- Tracking information to show the products are sourced directly from Korea or Japan
- Images of product cases showing Pokémon branding
- Support on finding more detail around how to check if the products are genuine
For Japanese and Korean Pokémon cards , the shine test is the most reliable method for authentication, particularly for higher-end cards like Special Art Rares . When you shine a light on an authentic card , you'll see distinct diagonal lines that run across the holographic surface . This sophisticated pattern demonstrates the high print quality that counterfeiters struggle to replicate accurately, making the card most likely genuine .
Fake cards exhibit a dramatically different shine pattern . Instead of the precise diagonal lines, counterfeit cards display an all-over shine effect with an almost rainbow colour that reflects light directly back at you . This rainbow effect appears because counterfeiters attempt to mimic the holographic appearance but lack the precision manufacturing required to create authentic diagonal line patterns . The fake shine often appears as straight vertical or horizontal lines rather than the proper diagonal pattern, and the holographic effect frequently covers areas where it shouldn't appear .
While varying texture throughout the card is also an excellent indicator for higher-end cards like Secret Art Rares , the shine test remains the most accessible and reliable method for collectors to quickly authenticate their Japanese and Korean Pokémon cards . This test works particularly well because the diagonal line pattern is a sophisticated manufacturing detail that requires advanced printing technology to replicate correctly
- Matte finish with specific texture - The cards have a distinctive matte finish that's not glossy or slippery, giving them a professional non-reflective appearance
- Deep blue borders with light blue Pokémon logo accents - The back features a deep, dark blue border that should be crisp and well-defined, with light blue colouring around the Pokémon logo text
Glossy finish with lighter printing - Distinctive glossy, business-card-like finish instead of matte, with noticeably lighter colors and less vibrant saturation
Same back design as English but lower quality - lighter/faint blue Pokéball design compare to English cards, with glossier cardstock and purple/blue internal layer when torn. Printed and pressed onto the card, creating a sticker like effect when ripped
Completely different back design - Unique backing pattern that's distinctly different from the international blue Pokéball design used since 2001. Card is printed as a film, then pressed onto the card showing as a sticker when torn.
Premium quality with gold borders - Superior print quality and texture compared to english cards with gold borders and high-quality matte finish and feel
Overly dark printing with thick borders - Excessively dark colors with high contrast that appear unnatural, often featuring borders that are much thicker than authentic cards
Glossy finish with poor construction - Inappropriate glossy or slippery texture lacking the proper multi-layered construction, often missing the black internal layer that prevents light transmission
The "rip test" is a method used to check if English Pokémon cards are real by tearing the card and looking for a black line in the middle. This test does NOT work for Japanese and Korean Pokémon cards. Authentic Japanese and Korean cards WILL peel like stickers when torn, and this is completely normal for those regions.
Don’t believe us? Click here.
At TCYM, we source our products exclusively from two trusted suppliers with whom we have built a very close relationship over time. Every single product we sell is thoroughly checked for authenticity and quality before being shipped. To ensure transparency and build customer trust, we often create time-lapse videos of our packing process, and we are always happy to answer any questions in the comments section below.
There are a lot of misconceptions about what real and fake Japanese and Korean Pokémon cards look like, which can make collecting confusing for many people. That's why we've created this detailed guide (with a video coming soon) to clearly show what to look out for when authenticating cards from these regions. Our goal is to help collectors understand the unique features of Japanese and Korean cards and confidently spot the differences between genuine and counterfeit products.
To make this guide as clear and helpful as possible, we've also purchased a selection of fake cards to show directly alongside our real products. By comparing authentic and counterfeit cards side by side, we can further confirm what genuine Japanese and Korean Pokémon cards look like, helping you spot the real deal with confidence.
- Japanese cards are made differently from English cards. Instead of a black core, they have a blue or gray layer and use different adhesives and press printing methods. Don’t believe us? Click here.
- Korean cards designs are printed in Japan, however the backs of the cards are manufactured in Korea. They can peel or separate more easily than Japanese cards cards however you get the highest Japanese print quality at a lower cost. Don’t believe us? Click here.
- Peeling does NOT mean fake for Japanese and Korean cards. This is a normal result of their manufacturing process. Don’t believe us? Click here.
Japanese & Korean Cards:
Comparing Pokémon Card Backs: English, Japanese, Korean, and Fakes
Card Texture Comparison
- English cards: Matte or lightly textured, sturdy feel.
- Japanese cards: Smooth, glossier, thinner and more flexible.
- Korean cards: Slickest and glossiest, lighter and flimsier. Don’t believe us? Click here.
- Fake cards: Often too smooth/plasticky or rough/papery, inconsistent thickness.
Watch These Videos For More Proof
Korean Pokemon Card Rip Test by PokeKoreTCG
Are My Japanese Pokemon Cards Fake? How To Identify!
Why The Rip Test is Actually Accurate | Pokémon Cards 101
Beware How To Spot Fake Korean Pokemon Cards by Legion of Zen
Summary
- Do not use the rip test on Japanese or Korean Pokémon cards. Peeling is normal for these regions.
- Use print quality, color, font, and texture checks instead.
- Show clear photos and videos to educate others, especially with side-by-side comparisons of real and fake cards from all regions.
This guide is designed to help collectors avoid common mistakes and confidently authenticate their Pokémon cards from any region.