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How to Access Google Play Japan in South Korea [2024 Guide]

  • Last updated August 8, 2024
  • written by
    Editor

Japan’s Google Play Store offers exclusive apps like e-amusement, GITADORA, and Taiko no Tatsujin that you can’t find outside of Japan due to distribution restrictions. But don’t worry, you can still enjoy access Google Play Japan in South Korea by using a VPN.

A VPN can hide your IP address, making it look like you’re browsing from another country. By connecting to a Japanese VPN server, you can easily access the Japanese Google Play Store as if you were in Japan.

ExpressVPN is an excellent choice for this. It offers 4 server locations in Japan, fast speeds, and top-notch security. Plus, if you’re not satisfied, ExpressVPN provides a 30-day money-back guarantee—so you can try it risk-free.


How to Access Google Play Japan in South Korea [3 Quick Steps]

To access Google Play Japan in South Korea, follow these three quick steps:

  1. Choose a VPN with Servers in Japan like ExpressVPN to access the Japanese Google Play Store.
  2. Create a New Google Play Japan Account and switch between it and your existing account as needed.
  3. Log into Your Japanese Google Play Account to download exclusive apps on your Android device.

How to Access Google Play Japan in South Korea With a VPN [Step-by-Step Guide]

Here’s a reliable method to access Japanese apps using a VPN. Before you begin, ensure you have a new Google account that hasn’t been previously used on your Android device, as this will be necessary later in the process:

1. Select a reliable VPN with fast speeds and servers in Japan. ExpressVPN is highly recommended due to its excellent performance.

2. Install the VPN and connect to a server in Japan. This step is crucial as you need a Japanese IP address to access the Google Play Store in Japan.

connect-to-japan-server-in-South Korea

3. On your Android device, go to ‘Settings,’ then the Google Play Store app. Tap the profile icon, and choose ‘Add another account‘. Follow the prompts to create a new account, skipping the phone number verification steps.

create-new-account-in-South Korea

4. On your Android device, navigate to Settings and select Manage applications.” You might need to scroll down to locate this option.

app-update

5. In the app settings, select ‘Clear data’ and ‘Clear cache‘. This removes residual data from your Google Play Store account, preventing location errors.

clear-cache-in-South Korea

6. Open the Google Play Store and select the new account from the profile menu at the top-left corner. You should now have access to the Japanese Google Play Store.

Google Play Japan

7. Browse and download Japanese apps on Android. Note that some apps might require a Japanese phone number for full functionality.


Why Do I Need a VPN to Access Google Play Japan in South Korea

A VPN helps you change the IP address that Google Play Store detects. When you connect to a VPN server in Japan, websites and apps will see the server’s Japanese IP address instead of yours.


Best VPN to Access Google Play Japan in South Korea [Detail Analysis]

To help with how to download Japanese games on Android, I evaluated various VPNs based on their features and offerings. These are some of the best VPNs for Google Play Japan, each with its unique strengths:


Quick Comparison of the Best VPNs to Access Google Play Japan in South Korea

Look at the summarized side-by-side comparison of the top VPNs for accessing the Japanese Play Store:

VPNs ExpressVPN-logo-in-South Korea Surfshark-logo-in-South Korea
Ranking 1 2 3
Servers in Japan 4 locations 1 location 130+ servers in 2 cities
Devices iOS, Windows, Android, Mac, etc. iOS, Windows, Android, Mac, etc. iOS, Windows, Android, Mac, etc.
Download Speed (100 Mbps connection) 89.42 Mbps 81.32 Mbps 83.82 Mbps
Simultaneous Device Connections 8 Unlimited 10
Price KRW 7238.68/mo (US$ 4.99/mo) - Save 61% With Exclusive 2-Year Plan + 4 Months Free KRW 3612.09/mo (US$ 2.49/mo) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee KRW 4917.66/mo (US$ 3.39/mo) - Save up to 70% off on 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee
Money Back Guarantee 30 Days 30 Days 30 Days

How to Find the Best VPN to Access Google Play Japan in South Korea [My Testing Methodology]

When you want to access Google Play Japan in South Korea, it’s important to choose the right VPN. Here’s a simple checklist to help you make the best choice:

  • Japanese servers: Ensure your VPN has reliable servers in Japan. This way, you can easily connect and access the Japanese Google Play Store.
  • Fast speeds: Pick a VPN that maintains fast speeds, so you don’t have to wait long for apps to download.
  • Device compatibility: Choose a VPN that offers an Android app, making it easy to use on all your Play Store-compatible devices.
  • Trustworthy money-back guarantee: Opt for a VPN that provides a reliable refund policy. This lets you test the service with confidence, knowing you can get your money back if needed.

By following these tips, you’ll have a smooth and easy experience accessing the Japanese Google Play Store.


VPN Isn’t Working with Google Play Japan in South Korea [Troubleshooting Tips]

If your VPN isn’t working with Google Play Japan in South Korea, don’t worry! Here are some simple tips to get it up and running again:

  • Change Your DNS Settings: Adjusting your DNS settings might solve the issue and help you access Google Play.
  • Clear Cache and Data: Refreshing your connection by clearing the cache and data can fix small glitches that might be blocking your access to Google Play.
  • Switch VPN Servers: If your current server is blocked, try connecting to a different one to restore access to Google Play Japan.
  • Use VPN Obfuscation: Some VPNs have features that hide your VPN traffic, making it harder for Google to detect. This can help you access Google Play without any problems.
  • Reach Out for Help: Many top VPNs offer 24/7 support. If you’re stuck, their customer service can guide you through specific steps to get your VPN working again.

Remember, VPN compatibility with Google Play can change. If these tips don’t work, you might need a more reliable VPN. I recommend trying ExpressVPN for a smooth experience!


FAQs – Access Google Play Japan in South Korea

To create a Japanese Google Play account, use a VPN to connect to a server in Japan. This will make Google detect a Japanese IP address, allowing you to set your account region to Japan and access apps in the Japanese store.

Set up a Japanese Google Play account and use a VPN with servers in Japan. Clear your Google Play data and cache, then connect to the VPN and access the Japanese store to download apps.

No, it’s not illegal. But remember, Google only lets you change your country once every 12 months. Using a trusted VPN can help you access a different Google Play Store.

Yes, you can use a VPN to change regions and then add funds with Google Play gift cards or prepaid cards instead of a local credit card. ExpressVPN is a reliable choice for this, as it offers fast speeds and secure connections, making the process smooth and hassle-free.

These methods don’t work well. They’re often slow and less secure. VPNs offer better speed, privacy, and security for changing your Google Play location.

Google Play limits access to certain apps based on your location due to distribution rules. Using a VPN to access content from another country may violate Google’s Terms of Service, so be sure to follow all rules before connecting.

Yes, but it’s not recommended. Free VPNs usually have limits on speed, servers, and data, making it hard to use Google Play. ExpressVPN is a better option, offering fast speeds and reliable access, with the added benefit of a money-back guarantee if you’re not satisfied.


Conclusion

Getting into the Japanese Play Store can be tough because some apps are only available in Japan. But you can easily access Google Play Japan in South Korea by using a VPN to get a Japanese IP address.

ExpressVPN is a great choice because it has fast servers, an easy-to-use Android app, and a no-logs policy that keeps your info safe. Plus, they offer a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can try it out with no risk.

I hope this guide helps you access the Japan Google Play Store. Give it a try, and let us know how it goes!