Pokémon Cards in Different Languages: Which Are Worth More?
English, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, French, German and more: how Pokémon card languages affect value, how to identify them and how to price non-English cards.
By Ayoub Farid · · 2 min read
Pokémon cards are printed in many languages: English, Japanese, Korean, Simplified and Traditional Chinese, Thai, Indonesian, and European languages like French, German, Italian, Spanish and Portuguese. The same card can sell for very different prices depending on the language.
Why language changes the price
- Collector base: English and Japanese have the largest international collector markets.
- Print runs: each language has its own supply.
- Exclusives: some cards and sets exist only in certain languages.
- Tournament legality: players need cards legal in their region's events.
A quick guide by language
English
The largest market for most modern and vintage cards. The reference price for many collectors.
Japanese
Huge collector interest, with exclusive promos, high print quality and earlier releases. Some Japanese cards are cheaper than English, others far more expensive (Japanese card values).
Korean and Chinese
Growing collector interest; some cards are affordable alternatives, and certain exclusives are sought after.
French, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese
Usually sell for less than English for the same card, though vintage copies and popular cards in excellent condition still have buyers, especially on Cardmarket in Europe (Cardmarket guide).
How to tell which language you have
Read the card text, and check the copyright line and set information. European language cards share English numbering; Asian language cards use their own set codes.
Pricing non-English cards
- Identify the card and its language.
- Search sold prices for that language specifically. On Cardmarket you can filter by language.
- Expect fewer sales, which means prices can vary more.
Grading non-English cards
All major graders accept non-English Pokémon cards. Whether grading pays off depends on the card's value in that language. See is it worth grading cards?.
Try it on your own cards
Scan your cards with Rarefolio to identify them and see an estimated market value, and check that the result matches your card's language before comparing prices. For a quick sort of what's worth checking first, see how to tell if a Pokémon card is rare.
Frequently asked questions
Are Japanese Pokémon cards worth more than English?
Sometimes. Vintage Japanese cards and exclusives can be worth more, while many modern Japanese cards are cheaper than English equivalents.
Are French or German Pokémon cards worth less?
Usually yes for the same card, though popular and vintage cards in good condition still sell well, especially in Europe.
Can I play non-English Pokémon cards in tournaments?
Rules depend on region and event. Check the official tournament rules for your area.
How do I price a Korean Pokémon card?
Look up sold prices for the Korean version specifically; don't use English or Japanese prices.