Export Documentation

Export Documentation for South Korea: Required Documents

Documents for shipping to or from South Korea: core documents, certificates, restricted goods, and customs procedures.

Country
South Korea
Customs authority
Korea Customs Service (KCS)
Trading bloc
RCEP, KORUS FTA
Currency
KRW
Estimated clearance
1-3 days for standard shipments

Import declaration through UNI-PASS system

KC marking for many products

KFDA approval for food/cosmetics

Pre-arrival filing available

Core documents

  • Commercial Invoice (required): In English, detailed with HS codes
  • Packing List (required): Detailed package information
  • Bill of Lading / Air Waybill (required): Transport document
  • Import Declaration (required): Filed via UNI-PASS

Additional documents

  • Certificate of Origin: For FTA rates (RCEP, KORUS)
  • KC Certification: Korean product safety mark Mandatory for covered products
  • KFDA Approval: For food, cosmetics, medical devices

Special certificates

  • KC Mark: applies to Electronics, toys, safety items, issued by Korean certification bodies.
  • KFDA Registration: applies to Food, cosmetics, drugs, issued by KFDA.

Customs procedures

  • UNI-PASS electronic system
  • AEO simplified procedures
  • Self-assessment

Restricted goods

  • Electronics (KC)
  • Food (KFDA)
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Cosmetics

Prohibited goods

  • Counterfeit goods
  • Narcotics
  • Weapons
  • Adult content

Tips

  • KC certification takes 2-4 weeks minimum
  • UNI-PASS registration helpful
  • Busan port is highly efficient

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Frequently asked questions

What is KC marking?

Korea Certification mark required for many consumer products sold in South Korea.

How does UNI-PASS work?

Korea's electronic customs system for all import/export declarations and payments.