Korea test certification project introduction
Details
KC certification, or Korean Certification, is a product certification that ensures that products comply with Korean safety standards - known as the K standard. KC Mark Korea Certification focuses on the prevention and reduction of risks related to safety, health or environmental impacts. Prior to 2009, different government organizations had 13 different certification systems, some of which partially overlapped. In 2009, the Korean government decided to introduce the KC mark certification and replace the previous 140 different test marks.
The KC mark and the corresponding KC certificate are similar to the European CE mark and apply to 730 different products such as auto parts, machinery and many electronic products. The test mark confirms that the product complies with relevant Korean safety standards.
K standard requirements are usually similar to the corresponding IEC standard (International Electrotechnical Commission standard). Although IEC standards are similar, it is also important to confirm Korean requirements before importing or selling into Korea.
KC certification is what is known as manufacturer-based certification, meaning that it does not distinguish between manufacturers and applicants. Upon completion of the certification process, the actual manufacturer and factory will appear on the certificate.
South Korea is one of the most important and innovative industrial countries in the world. In order to gain market access, many products entering the Korean market need to undergo testing and certification.
KC Mark Certification Body:
The Korea Bureau of Technical Standards (KATS) is responsible for KC certification in Korea. It is part of the Department of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE). KATS is establishing the regulatory framework for the listing of different consumer products to ensure the safety of consumers. In addition, they are responsible for drafting standards and international coordination around standardization.
Products requiring the KC label must be inspected in accordance with the Industrial Product Quality Management and Safety Control Act and the Electrical Appliances Safety Act.
There are three main bodies that are recognized as certification bodies and are allowed to conduct product testing, plant audits and issue certificates. They are "Korea Testing Institute" (KTR), "Korea Testing Laboratory" (KTL) and "Korea Testing Certification" (KTC).
