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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.

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).

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.

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.

On January 12, 2026, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) of South Korea announced a draft amendment to the Regulations on Safety Standards etc. for Cosmetic . Key revisions include the regulation of the hair dye ingredient list, the addition of a new UV filter, and the update of multiple safety test methods. The public consultation period for this draft amendment will remain open until February 6, 2026.

On September 2, 2025, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) of South Korea issued Announcement No. 2025-63 to revise the Cosmetic Safety Standards. This announcement will come into effect six months after its publication. However, the revised provisions concerning Cyclopentasiloxane in Annex 2 will take effect three years after the date of publication.

On August 1, 2025, the Korean government promulgated Prime Ministerial Decree No. 2043, partially amending the Enforcement Rule of the Cosmetics Act. The amendments took effect upon the date of promulgation.

This article compiles and summarizes the latest developments in cosmetics regulations in China and globally as of July 2025, covering industry news, newly issued regulations, relevant policy adjustments, and regulatory requirements. It aims to assist enterprises in ensuring compliance and keeping up with global cosmetics regulatory trends.

On July 10, 2025, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) of South Korea announced the latest revision to the Enforcement Rules of the Cosmetics Act (Prime Ministerial Decree No. 1970). The amendment introduces systematic adjustments in key areas, including functional cosmetics, customized cosmetics, and cosmetics for infants and young children.

On June 19, 2025, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) of South Korea issued Announcement No. 2025-258, proposing an amendment to the Enforcement Decree of the Cosmetics Act and opened it for public consultation. The deadline for submitting comments is July 30, 2025.