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A Step-by-Step Compliance Guide for Exporting Cosmetics to South Korea

Based on the current laws and regulations of South Korea, CIRS Group provides a systematic analysis of the full compliance process for cosmetics exported to South Korea, covering seven key areas: definitions, classifications and market entry requirements, regulatory authorities, enterprise roles, compliance procedures, documentation requirements, and sample standard import declaration reports and inspection reports. This guide offers one-stop guidance to help products clear customs and enter the market in compliance.

South Korea Adds 18 New Cosmetic Ingredient Analytical Methods; Triclosan & Zinc Pyrithione Tests Revised

On April 21, 2026, South Korea's National Institute of Food and Drug Safety Evaluation (NIFDS) released a draft revision of the "Guidelines for Analytical Methods for Cosmetic Usage Limit Ingredients (Citizen Guide)" through the Korea Cosmetic Association (KCIA) for public comment. The public comment period closed on April 24, 2026. The revision adds 18 new analytical methods and improves existing methods for triclosan and zinc pyrithione.

South Korea Proposes Ban on IP-Infringing Cosmetics Alongside New Export Support

On April 20, 2026, the Korea Cosmetic Association (KCIA) issued Notice No. 4-161, forwarding document No. 2757 from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) Cosmetic Policy Division. The notice announces a legislative proposal initiated by Representative Baek Jong-heon to partially amend the Cosmetics Act, and invites public comments. The core objectives of the proposed amendment are to strengthen regulatory measures against the sale of "IP-infringing cosmetics" and to establish an export support mechanism. The KCIA feedback deadline is April 23, 2026.

South Korea Temporarily Eases Cosmetic Labeling Rules to Address Supply Disruptions

On April 3, 2026, the Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) announced that, in response to packaging material supply shortages, it would temporarily allow food, cosmetics, and other products to display required labeling information using sticker labels when using alternative packaging materials. This temporary measure takes effect on April 5 and will be valid for six months (may be terminated early or extended depending on actual supply conditions).

South Korea Strengthens Oversight of Directly Purchased Overseas Cosmetics

On April 2, 2026, the Korea Cosmetic Association (KCIA) issued an announcement stating that the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) partially amended the Enforcement Rule of the Cosmetics Act on March 31, 2026, aiming to further strengthen the safety supervision of directly purchased overseas cosmetics. The amended provisions have entered into force on April 2, 2026.

New UV Filter, New Rules: Korea's Cosmetic Safety Standards Revised

On March 25, 2026, the Korea Cosmetic Industry Association (KCIA) issued a notification regarding the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety's (MFDS) issuance of Notification No. 2026-16 to amend the "Regulation on Safety Standards, etc. for Cosmetics." The key amendments include the reorganization of hair dye ingredient lists, the addition of a new UV filter, and the revision of certain test methods. The amendments entered into effect on March 18, 2026.

South Korea Plans to Amend Cosmetics Act to Regulate Labeling and Environmental Claims

On February 23, 2026, the Korea Cosmetics Association (KCIA) announced plans to amend the Cosmetics Act. Proposed by Assemblyman Kim Ki-woong, this amendment aims to regulate the accuracy of information in cosmetics labels and advertisements, ensuring that claims about the environmental characteristics or efficacy of cosmetics and their containers and packaging (such as biodegradability) comply with standards set by relevant international organizations or the Prime Minister's orders. The KCA is currently seeking public feedback, with the deadline for submissions set for February 27, 2026.