Korea KC EMC Compliance Certification Guide

Overview of New Korea KC EMC Regulations

Korea has recently introduced new regulations regarding KC EMC complianCE certification, impacting various devices powered by USB or batteries (including rechargeable batteries). These new rules allow for certification conversion using CE/CB EMC reports and the option to apply for KC EMC self-declaration. This presents both opportunities and challenges for businesses and manufacturers!

Affected Device Categories

1. Electric Toys

Devices requiring self-consistency confirmation:

• Applicable standards: KS C 9814-1:2022 / KS C 9814-2:2022

• Device examples:

  o Fuzz remover, fringe generator, electric sprayer (AC-powered only), paint sprayer, smoke machine

  o Electric disinfectant, deodorizer/aroma machine, electronic clock, electric water dispenser, electric tools (e.g., electric drills, saws, polishers)

Devices requiring self-certification:

• Devices with a rated input exceeding 1.5KW or powered by USB/dry batteries (including rechargeable batteries)

• Applicable for lighting devices (self-consistency verification required): KS C 9815:2023 / KS C 9547:2023

2. Information Equipment

Applicable standards: KS C 9832:2023 / KS C 9835:2019

• Device examples:

  o POS terminals, barcode scanners, copiers, multifunction printers, electronic computing terminals

3. Household and Commercial Appliances

• Device examples:

  o Vacuum cleaners, refrigerators, air purifiers, fans, air conditioners, electric blankets, kitchen appliances (e.g., rice cookers, blenders)

  o Beauty instruments, electric curtains, gaming devices, electric toys, electric massage devices

Certification Advantages for USB/Battery-Powered Devices

Previously, obtaining KC emc certification for devices required testing at local laboratories in Korea, which was a complex and time-consuming process. However, the new regulations allow for direct conversion using CE/CB EMC reports, meaning companies no longer need to repeat emc testing, saving time and costs, and enabling faster entry into the Korean market.

Role of CE/CB EMC Reports

CE certification (for the European market) and cb certification (International Electrotechnical Commission certification) can be used for KC EMC conversion. As long as the report meets Korean standards, redundant testing can be avoided, reducing certification costs for businesses. For example:

• A manufacturer of an electric disinfectant: Initially held a CE EMC report and used this report to directly convert to KC EMC certification, quickly entering the Korean market and gaining a competitive edge.

Conditions for Certification Conversion

Not all CE/CB EMC reports can be directly converted. The following conditions must be met:

1. The report is within its validity period (as per the issuing organization).

2. The product scope and standards match.

3. The key component information in the report matches the actual product.

KC EMC Self-Certification Application Process

1. Documentation Preparation

  o Original and copy of CE/CB EMC report

  o Product manual (in Korean), bill of materials, application form, copy of business license

2. Select Certification Body

  o Choose official Korean institutions such as KTC, KTL, or a professional certification agency

3. Submit Application and Review

  o The certification body reviews the authenticity of the documentation. If there are any issues, they must be promptly addressed.

4. Product Inspection (if applicable)

  o Some products may require additional inspection.

5. Obtain KC EMC Certification

  o After passing the review, the certification will be issued, allowing the product to legally enter the Korean market.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What if the documentation is incomplete?

• Contact the certification body promptly to supplement the documents and avoid delays.

2. What if the test fails?

• Make technical adjustments to the product as per the certification body’s recommendations and re-submit the test application.

3. How long is the certification valid?

• KC EMC self-certification is typically valid for 5 years, but any changes to key components require re-evaluation.

4. Can the process be expedited?

• Some certification bodies offer expedited services for an additional fee.

Pitfalls to Avoid (Business Tips)

1.Ensure report standards match to avoid “incompatible reports” issues

2.Hire a professional translator to ensure accurate Korean documentation

3.Correctly affix the KC mark (it must be placed on the product, packaging, and manual)

The new Korea KC EMC regulations bring convenience for USB or battery-powered devices, with the ability to convert certification using CE/CB EMC reports significantly reducing certification costs and time. However, businesses should still pay attention to details like report validity and standard consistency to ensure smooth certification. We hope this guide is