Issei, maker of mochi gummies, announced the launch of three of its signature products at Olive Young's first-ever U.S. store in Pasadena, CA. Olive Young, reportedly often referred to as the "Sephora of Korea," operates over 1,400 stores in South Korea. The debut marks a major milestone for the fast-growing brand as it expands consumer access through one of the world's most influential trend-driven beauty retailers with buzz-worthy innovations, the brand says.

The launch comes on the heels of Issue receiving the inaugural Trailblazer Award at the Most Innovative New Product Awards during the 2025 Sweets & Snacks Expo. The recognition “celebrates bold, disruptive products, often from start-ups or challenger brands, that illustrate where the category is headed," and is judged by a jury of 60 buyers at the biggest retailers in the country. 

According to the company, Issei has quickly carved out a new category in candy since its launch in 2022 by Mika Shino, who aimed to create a new generation of candy that brings people together. The idea began in founder Mika Shino's kitchen, where she set out to create a candy she could feel good about sharing with her own children—one made with better ingredients, inspired by her Japanese heritage. Inspired by the Japanese tradition of mochi, Issei aims to reimagine the rice-based delicacy into a modern, better-for-you gummy that bridges heritage and innovation.

“Three years ago, I started this journey in my kitchen with my kids, wanting to create a candy that was fun, inclusive, and something I could feel good about giving them,” says Shino.

"Being selected for Olive Young's first U.S. store opening is an exciting moment for Issei and a testament to the growing consumer demand for new textures, global flavors and clean, aesthetically elevated modern candy options," continues Shino. "As a brand recognized for helping move the category forward, we are thrilled to introduce Olive Young shoppers to a new way of experiencing candy."

The three Issei products launching at Olive Young include:

• Issei Mochi Gummies Sour Cherry
• Issei Mochi Gummies Sour Watermelon
• Issei Mochi Gummies Sour Apple

Known for identifying and elevating the next generation of consumer brands, Olive Young's arrival in the U.S. has generated tremendous anticipation among shoppers seeking innovative products and emerging trends from around the world, Issei says. Issei's inclusion in the launch assortment reflects the retailer's commitment to offering category-defining products that resonate with on-trend, influencer-focused consumers, the brand says. 

"Our mission has always been to create beautiful, clean candy for the next generation of consumers," adds Shino. "The Trailblazer Award affirmed that we are helping to reshape what's possible in confectionery, and partnering with Olive Young for its U.S. debut is another exciting step in that journey."

Related - Video: Issei Mochi Gummies talks category trends