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South Korea introduces Government-Led EV Battery Certification and Tracking
In a regulatory shift, the South Korean government will now certify the safety of electric vehicle (EV) batteries before they are approved for installation, replacing the previous self-certification model by manufacturers. The new regulation, introduced under the revised Automobile Management Act, took effect on February 17, 2025 . EV batteries and certain other automotive components usually require a KC certification in order to be approved for import and sale on the Korean market.
Under the new Battery Safety Certification System, EV battery manufacturers must apply for certification from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport (MOLIT) before selling their products. The batteries will undergo comprehensive safety performance tests, including thermal shock, combustion, overheat prevention, short circuit, overcharging, over-discharging, overcurrent, vibration, impact, compression, drop, and water immersion tests. Certified batteries must display a safety label before they can be sold. The government also reserves the right to conduct post-certification conformity inspections to ensure ongoing compliance with safety standards. If a battery is found to be non-compliant, authorities may revoke its certification and halt production, import, or sales.
In addition to safety certification, South Korea is implementing a Battery Tracking System to ensure full lifecycle management of EV batteries. Under this system, each battery will be assigned a unique identification number, which must be registered in the official vehicle records. This will allow authorities to track battery production, usage, maintenance, and disposal, making it easier to analyze the causes of battery failures or fires. When a battery is replaced, the new battery’s identification number must be updated in the registry, ensuring accurate tracking of all battery-related changes.
The government will also introduce pre-disposal performance evaluations for used batteries starting in 2027, supporting the development of battery reuse and recycling industries. Officials emphasize that these measures will enhance public confidence in EV safety while ensuring South Korea remains a leader in the global electric vehicle market.
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“.
MPR Celebrates 20 Years of Success in the Certification Industry
MPR International proudly celebrates its 20th anniversary as a successful company in the global certification sector. Since its founding in 2005 as MPR China Certification GmbH, the company has expanded its reach from Europe to a worldwide customer base. Initially, MPR specialized in China certifications, particularly the China Compulsory Certification (CCC). By establishing strong relationships with international authorities and offering innovative services, MPR has become a leading provider of certifications in the automotive and other product industries.
In 2013, MPR China Certification GmbH achieved a significant milestone when it was recognized as an Outstanding Certification Company by the China Certification Center for Automotive Products (CCAP). Further recognition followed from the Shanghai Motor Vehicle Inspection Center (SMVIC), which honored MPR as an Excellent Partner for vehicle components and comprehensive testing. Additionally, an MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) was signed with SMVIC.
Since 2019, MPR has successfully expanded its reach to the markets of India, Korea, and Japan.
In India, the company strengthened its collaboration with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), which paid an official visit to Frankfurt to enhance certification processes and international partnerships, offering clients more efficient solutions. Furthermore, MPR works closely with the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) and the International Centre for Automotive Technology (iCAT) to provide type approvals and regulatory compliance services in the growing Indian market. An MOU was also signed with iCAT.
In Korea, MPR collaborates with local authorities and testing laboratories to ensure compliance with national standards. This partnership has been reinforced through regular visits to Korean certification bodies and technical inspection institutions, which has helped streamline and enhance the transparency of certification processes for clients in Korea.
A pivotal step in the company’s development was joining the Certania Group, a leading conglomerate specializing in testing, inspection, and certification services. This has enabled MPR to significantly expand its global testing and service capabilities.
MPR is committed to further expanding its capacity to ensure fast and reliable certification processes. Its participation in forums such as the Future Battery Forum underscores its dedication to supporting the introduction of innovative technologies into international markets. MPR has already established itself as a trusted certification provider for battery technologies, e-mobility, and hydrogen products.
Through strong partnerships and continuous improvements, MPR remains a leader in the product certification industry and looks forward to continuing to offer its clients excellent and optimized services.
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.
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“.
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“.
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“.
Korean authorities close at the turn of the year – 2024/25
At the end of 2024 and the beginning of 2025, the Korean authorities and certification bodies will be closed.
On December 25, 2024, the authorities will be closed for Christmas. Also on January 1, 2025 for the New Year’s Day. The offices will resume their work on January 2, 2025. This closure period over the turn of the year can lead to delays in certification processes.
Although New Year’s Eve is celebrated rather quietly in Korea compared to the Spring Festival, it is still a noticed time. The Spring Festival holiday, the date of which is determined according to the Chinese lunar calendar, will take place next year from January 28 to 30, 2025. We will inform you in good time about the exact closing days of the authorities during the Spring Festival.
MPR International GmbH will continue to support you in your certification processes in the new year. We wish you a successful New Year 2025!
Revised KGS Guidelines for Hydrogen Equipment in Korea
The 159th Gas Technology Standards Committee Meeting, held on November 15, 2024, by the Korea Gas Safety Corporation (KGS), introduced significant revisions to 11 KGS codes, including updates related to hydrogen equipment. Changes to hydrogen equipment standards include KGS AH171 for hydrogen extraction facilities and KGS AH271 for water electrolysis equipment, both of which now align overcurrent protection and grounding standards with international norms (IEC 60204-1 and IEC 60364-5-54). For stationary fuel cells, as per KGS AH371, safety measures for idle operation during grid anomalies have been added, and performance testing of power conversion devices has been harmonized with Korean standards (KS C 8569). Mobile hydrogen fuel cells also saw updates, including higher allowable exhaust temperatures for forklifts (KGS AH372) and improved durability testing for drone applications (KGS AH373) to meet IEC 62282-6-200 standards. Hydrogen equipment typically requires KGS certification for legal operation and market approval in Korea.
Further updates include clarifications and refinements to other gas-related standards. These cover changes in liability insurance forms for gas boilers, installation standards for double-structured flues, and revisions to terminologies under KGS GC209. LPG standards, such as KGS FP331, now emphasize rigorous safety evaluations for container charging and inspections. All updates aim to enhance safety, promote international harmonization, and provide clear technical guidelines for the gas and hydrogen industries.
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“.
Updated Standards for Pressure Vessels in Korea
The Korean Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy has revised key standards under the High-Pressure Gas Safety Control Act, as outlined in Notice No. 2024-753. These updates affect gas wholesale operations, refrigeration and specific equipment, and valves and safety components. For storage tanks and pressure vessels (KGS AC111, AC113, AC114, AC115), the revisions introduce clearer labeling to indicate hydrogen pressure vessel lifecycles, set criteria for emergency stop mechanisms and anti-misoperation systems in fixed tanks, and detail non-destructive testing methods for welds. Updates also include standards for internal piping, drain valves, and nameplate locations for small storage tanks. Seismic design and inspections (KGS AC115) for LNG tanks now mandate testing of all welds and permit phased-array ultrasonic testing. Pressure vessels typically require KGS certification to be approved for import and sale in Korea.
Changes to valves and safety components include updated regulations for toxic gas valve durability testing, with production-phase durability checks removed (KGS AA318). High-pressure safety valves now align with international standards, incorporating ASME Section XIII manufacturing criteria (KGS AA319). Other revisions address gas pipeline installation, regulator stations, and marking standards, ensuring consistency with national safety regulations and related laws. The updates aim to improve safety, clarify processes, and harmonize with global practices.
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“.
Revisions to Standards for Hydrogen Equipment and Fuel Cells Announced by KGS
The Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy (MOTIE) has recently approved and announced revisions to the Korean Gas Safety (KGS) Codes. The amendments pertain to the manufacturing standards for hydrogen extraction equipment and stationary fuel cells, which require a KGS factory registration. Notably, new seismic design standards have been introduced for above-ground hydrogen facilities and buried hydrogen pipelines.
The specific KGS Code standards affected by these revisions include AH171 (Hydrogen Extraction Equipment Manufacturing Standards), AH271 (Water Electrolysis Equipment Manufacturing Standards), AH371 (Stationary Fuel Cell Manufacturing Standards), AH372 (Mobile Fuel Cell Manufacturing Standards for Forklifts), and AH373 (Mobile Fuel Cell Manufacturing Standards for Drones).
Additionally, revisions have been made to standards concerning hydrogen facilities, including FU671 (Hydrogen Fuel Utilization Facility Standards), GC202 (Cathodic Protection Standards for Gas Facilities), GC203 (Seismic Design Standards for Gas Facilities and Above-Ground Gas Pipelines), GC204 (Seismic Design Standards for Buried Gas Pipelines), and GC205 (Welding and Non-Destructive Testing Standards for Gas Facilities). These amendments are predominantly focused on hydrogen-related facilities.
Key changes introduced by these revisions include the unification of standards for hydrogen product charging structures, with a clear distinction made between cases where protective housings can be easily detached and those where they cannot. The scope of application for solid oxide fuel cells has also been expanded to include cascade systems. Furthermore, seismic performance testing standards for mobile fuel cells used in forklifts and drones have been revised in accordance with U.S. military standards.
Other notable changes include the refinement of painting standards for hydrogen pipelines and the removal of the ban on installing ventilation fans in hydrogen fuel cell rooms. New standards have also been established for the cathodic protection of hydrogen facilities, as well as for the seismic design of both above-ground and buried hydrogen pipelines.
In addition to these revisions, the MOTIE has approved updates to standards related to city gas utilization facilities, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) charging, collective supply, and storage facilities. These changes underscore ongoing efforts to enhance safety and ensure consistent standards across the industry.
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 69 261
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“.
National Radio Research Agency Announces New Relevant Product Types and Reclassifications
The National Radio Research Agency (RRA) has officially announced updates to the suitability assessment standards for various broadcasting and telecommunications equipment, which came into effect on June 30, 2024. The new requirements introduce a reclassification for certain types of equipment, which all require a KC EMC registration in order to be approved for import an sales in Korea. The updates are primarily aimed at ensuring that all relevant equipment meets the necessary safety and performance criteria in accordance with the latest technological developments.
Among the new devices now subject to conformity assessments are:
- Laser Welding and Cutting Equipment
Classified under industrial and scientific electric machinery, these devices will now require testing with a designated institution. - LED Hair Growth Helmet
Falling under beauty equipment, these helmets must also be registered with a designated testing institution to comply with the new regulations. - UV Sterilizers for Nails
Another category of beauty equipment, UV nail sterilizers will need to undergo testing and registration with a designated body. - Tufting Guns
Classified as electric tools, tufting guns will require registration with a designated testing institution. - Heat Guns
Heat guns, categorized under electric heat tools, will now fall under the new self-verification registration. - Automatic Can Seamers, Laser Engravers, and Laser Marking Machines
These devices, commonly used in office and business settings, will also need to be registered with a designated testing institution. - Smoke Detectors and Inverters
Equipment such as smoke detectors and inverters will require self-verification registration under the new rules. - LiDAR Systems
Automotive LiDAR systems must be registered with a designated testing institution.
In addition to the introduction of new devices, the RRA has also revised the assessment types for certain equipment. For instance:
- Lint Removers will transition from designated testing institution registration to the new self-verification registration.
- Electric Insect Killers will move from self-test registration to designated testing institution registration.
These changes underline the RRA’s continuous efforts to maintain high standards in product safety and performance, ensuring that all equipment distributed within South Korea meets rigorous conformity requirements.
If you have products in these categories, we would be happy to support you with the registration under these new regulations.
For products with radio technologies, a KC EMC certification is also required to gain access to the South Korean market. This applies to products with radio technologies such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, RFID or other wireless communication technologies.
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 69 261
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“.
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