Updated Certification Standards for Hydrogen and Gas Tanks/ Cylinders in Korea

The Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy (MOTIE) in Korea has implemented new standards for high-pressure gas storage and related equipment under the Korean Gas Safety Corporation (KGS) codes. Effective January 2025, the revisions aim to enhance safety, clarify compliance protocols, and align with international regulations. Products categorized under KGS AC113, AC417, and AC211 require KGS factory registration for approval to be imported and sold in Korea.

The updated KGS AC113 standard, applicable to tanks mounted on vehicles, introduces expanded material options by permitting austenitic stainless steel for pressure-bearing parts. Testing protocols now include inspections for safety valve retention time, while improved insulation and pressure monitoring designs bolster transport safety. Under KGS AC417, standards for hydrogen cylinders used in fuel cell vehicles now synchronize with international criteria, refining inspection, labeling, and terminology for “hoop-wrapped cylinders.” The KGS AC211 code corrects clause references, clarifies testing methods, and incorporates ISO standards for welded gas cylinders. These updates provide clearer safety guidelines and ensure compliance with both local and global standards.

Feel free to contact us any time if you need assistance or have any questions regarding Korean certifications like KC, KC EMC, KCs, KCs for explosion safety products or KGS factory registration.

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Email: info@korea-certification.com

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Updated KGS Standards for Pressure Vessels in Korea

Effective January 2025, Korea has introduced updates to its KGS AC111 standard, which applies to high-pressure gas storage tanks and pressure vessels. These revisions, issued by the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy under the Korean Gas Safety Corporation (KGS), emphasize stricter safety protocols and testing measures. Pressure vessels falling under this standard typically require KGS certification for approval in Korea.

The revised AC111 prohibits the use of nickel and nickel alloy steels susceptible to embrittlement in liquid hydrogen conditions. It mandates new insulation performance tests to measure hydrogen loss over 24 hours and requires manufacturers to conduct helium leakage and vacuum tests, including room-temperature and cryogenic vacuum inspections. Thermal treatment for pressure-bearing components made of 304L stainless steel must now comply with ASME Sec. VIII Div.1 standards. Design enhancements include mandatory vacuum measurement ports and filters in insulation spaces. Exemptions have also been introduced for storage tanks located in specific regulatory zones.

Feel free to contact us any time if you need assistance or have any questions regarding Korean certifications like KC, KC EMC, KCs, KCs for explosion safety products or KGS factory registration.

Tel. Europe: +49-69-271 37 69 259
Tel. US: +1 773 654-2673

Email: info@korea-certification.com

For more information you can download our free brochure “Korea Certification Made Easy – The Booklet“.

Logistics Companies use Hydrogen Cargo Trucks in South Korea

CJ Logistics has introduced two 11-ton hydrogen-powered cargo trucks into KT&G Corp.’s logistics operations in South Korea. These trucks, capable of traveling up to 570 kilometers on a full charge, have been assigned to the KT&G Daejeon plant route, which ensures access to the Cheongju hydrogen refueling station. The vehicles display the slogan, “CJ Logistics and KT&G are taking the lead together in eco-friendly logistics,” reflecting the companies’ joint commitment to sustainability. The decision to implement hydrogen-powered trucks aligns with their focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives, specifically targeting reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. Hydrogen drive-related components and equipment usually require KGS certification in order to be approved for import and sale in Korea.

This is the first time hydrogen cargo trucks have been utilized in KT&G’s logistics division, and the move highlights both companies’ dedication to promoting eco-friendly power sources. CJ Logistics has been a pioneer in hydrogen logistics, first introducing hydrogen-powered parcel delivery trucks in 2021. Furthermore, after entering the gaseous hydrogen transport business in June 2022, the company launched South Korea’s first liquid hydrogen transport business, significantly broadening its role in advancing hydrogen-based logistics solutions.

Feel free to contact us any time if you need assistance or have any questions regarding Korean certifications like KC, KC EMC, KCs, KCs for explosion safety products or KGS factory registration.

Tel. Europe: +49-69-271 37 69 259
Tel. US: +1 773 654-2673

Email: info@korea-certification.com

For more information you can download our free brochure “Korea Certification Made Easy – The Booklet“.

New Initiative advances Green Hydrogen Economy in South Korea

On Jeju Island, South Korea’s first commercial green hydrogen sales will commence on December 1 at the Hamdeok Green Hydrogen Station. The initiative supports hydrogen-powered passenger cars and buses and highlights the importance of green hydrogen technology in achieving a sustainable future. Products and equipment related to hydrogen power systems typically require KGS certification to be approved for import and sale in Korea.

Green hydrogen, produced through electrolysis using renewable energy, generates no carbon emissions, making it a clean energy source. Retail prices are set at 15,000 won per kilogram, with current costs exceeding fossil fuels. However, advancements in technology and market expansion are expected to reduce production and retail expenses over time. Jeju currently has 58 registered hydrogen vehicles and aims to increase this number to 450 by 2030. The Haengwon Green Hydrogen Production Base, operational since last year, produces 600 kg of green hydrogen daily using energy from a nearby wind farm. This project is integral to Jeju’s efforts to achieve carbon neutrality and foster a hydrogen-based economy.

Feel free to contact us any time if you need assistance or have any questions regarding Korean certifications like KC, KC EMC, KCs, KCs for explosion safety products or KGS factory registration.

Tel. Europe: +49-69-271 37 69 259
Tel. US: +1 773 654-2673

Email: info@korea-certification.com

For more information you can download our free brochure “Korea Certification Made Easy – The Booklet“.

LG Electronics Introduces KC-Certified Safety Features for EV Chargers in Korea

LG Electronics Inc. has introduced dual overcharge prevention technology in its 7-kilowatt (kW) slow electric vehicle (EV) chargers to improve safety and boost its EV charger business in South Korea. EV chargers require KC Safety certification to be approved for import and sale in Korea.

The new safety features include a smart control system and a power cut-off mechanism after charging completion, forming a double-layered safety net to prevent fire hazards. The smart control technology uses real-time data transmission between the EV battery and the control system to monitor charging status and stop charging when necessary. It is certified under ISO15118 VAS and OCPP protocols, meeting the Ministry of Environment’s subsidy requirements for slow chargers and enabling future global expansion. Additional safeguards include compliance with the EU’s Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) standards and performance testing at LG’s EV charger facility in Pyeongtaek.

Feel free to contact us any time if you need assistance or have any questions regarding Korean certifications like KC, KC EMC, KCs, KCs for explosion safety products or KGS factory registration.

Tel. Europe: +49-69-271 37 69 259
Tel. US: +1 773 654-2673

Email: info@korea-certification.com

For more information you can download our free brochure “Korea Certification Made Easy – The Booklet“.