Korean KC certification

I. Scope of Application

• Electrical and Electronic Products: household appliances (refrigerators, washing machines, etc.), IT equipment (computers, mobile phones, etc.), lighting fixtures, wires and cables, batteries, etc.;

• Machinery Products: industrial machinery, medical devices, elevators, etc.;

• Consumer Products: toys, cosmetics, children’s products, building materials, etc.;

• Automotive and Components: certain automotive parts, tires, etc.;

• Chemical Products: certain chemicals, flame-retardant materials, etc.

II. Certification Process

1. Determine Product Classification and Standards
   First, confirm that the product falls within the KC certification scope and identify the applicable Korean national standards (KS standards, Korean Standards) or relevant technical regulations.
2. Prepare Application Documents
   Documents typically required include (some require Korean translation):

• Certification application form (KATS-prescribed format);

• Product manuals, specifications, circuit diagrams, structural drawings;

• Samples (provided as required, typically 1–3 units);

• Test reports (if pre-tested by an accredited laboratory);

• Factory quality management system documentation (if applicable);

• Proof of Korean local agent/representative (mandatory for overseas companies).

3. Submit Application and Review
   Submit the application to KATS or its authorized certification bodies, which will review the completeness of documentation; supplementary materials are required if any issues are found.
4. Product Testing
   Samples must be sent to Korea-accredited laboratories or KATS-recognized overseas laboratories for testing. Test items are based on the corresponding KS standards or regulations, focusing on safety, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), environmental protection, etc.
5. Factory Inspection (if applicable)
   Certain high-risk products (such as electrical appliances and medical devices) require factory inspection to verify whether the production process meets quality control requirements.
6. Certificate Issuance and Mark Usage
   Upon passing testing and inspection, the certification body issues the KC certification certificate, and the enterprise may affix the KC Mark (a circular design containing the letters “KC”) to the product. The mark must be clearly and permanently attached to the product or packaging.

III. Key Considerations

1. Mandatory Requirement: Products falling within the KC certification scope may not be sold, imported, or used in the Korean market without certification; otherwise, penalties will be imposed.

2. Validity and Maintenance: KC certification is generally valid long-term, but re-application or certification renewal is required when significant changes occur in product design, materials, or production processes. KATS conducts regular supervisory inspections (such as market sampling and factory re-inspections) to ensure continued compliance with standards.

3. Local Agent Requirement: Overseas companies (non-Korean domestic enterprises) must designate a Korean local agent or representative responsible for certification application, communication, and subsequent maintenance. The agent must possess valid qualifications.

4. Standards Updates: KS standards may be updated as technology evolves. Companies must monitor standard changes and adjust products accordingly to maintain certification validity.

Summary