European electronics manufacturers may face delays or rejections when entering the South Korean market. This is due to the requirement that products undergo testing in approved labs before market entry. These labs must adhere to strict protocols and standards set by regulatory agencies to ensure accurate and reliable results. Manufacturers must provide detailed documentation of the testing process and results to demonstrate compliance with South Korean regulations. Failure to meet these requirements results in market access denial.

Thanks to the EU-South Korea Free Trade Agreement (FTA) that was formally ratified in December 2015 EU exporters are able to enjoy reduced financial burdens when entering the market. The agreement permits EU exporters to conduct Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) testing of their products in EU laboratories, leading to cost reduction and ensuring compliance with Korean requirements. While South Korea maintains the option for third-party certification in specific cases, the FTA grants EU exporters

increased flexibility and cost savings for meeting regulatory standards. The regime that eases certification procedures for electrical and electronic products is set out here in Annex 2B on Electronics.

EKTOS Testing and Reliability Services (TRS) has recently been added to the roster of competent European labs for testing electronics bound for South Korea. Approval from the European Union (EU) solidifies TRS’ position as a trusted testing lab, facilitating entry for EU-based manufacturers into the lucrative South Korean market. With TRS’ stamp of approval, manufacturers can navigate regulatory hurdles confidently, ensuring seamless market access.

EKTOS TRS’ two well-equipped labs in Denmark ensure precise and reliable testing results. From product safety assessments to environmental, HALT, and performance evaluations, TRS serves manufacturers from diverse industries. With TRS’ accreditation, manufacturers can streamline their testing processes, reducing time-to-market and associated costs.