South Korea Unveils K-CCA Revisions with Expanded Exemption Scenarios

The Ministry of Environment (MOE) in South Korea announced proposed revisions to the Enforcement Regulations of the Chemical Substances Control Act (K-CCA) and is now seeking public feedback. The revisions included categorizing hazardous substances into three classes and introducing special exemptions for general consumers.

Stakeholders, including institutions, organizations, and individuals, may submit comments through the Integrated Legislation Notice Center (http://opinion.lawmaking.go.kr) by March 25, 2025.

The revisions aim to align with the amended K-CCA, scheduled to take effect on August 7, 2025. The updated law, in compliance with K-REACH (Act on the Registration and Evaluation of Chemicals), restructures the hazardous chemical management system by categorizing hazardous substances into three classes:

• acute human hazards;
• chronic human hazards; and
• ecological hazards.

It also introduces special exemptions for general consumers, for the first time. To ensure seamless implementation, the current K-CCA Enforcement Regulations require corresponding adjustments.

Key Revisions

Three New Exemptions for Restricted Substances

• Reagents for scientific research or testing (including calibration standard gases)
• Consumer daily use and storage

The above two scenarios exempt entities from notifying the MOE regarding the manufacture, import, sale, storage, or use of such substances.

• Pre-approved hazardous chemicals

Exempt from notifying the MOE for their manufacture, sale, storage, or use, but imports are not covered by this exemption.

Adjustments to Authorization Substance Management and New Small-Scale Production Exemptions

A small-scale production exemption was introduced for substances requiring authorization that are not yet officially designated. Authorization requirements are waived for substances with annual production, usage, or import volumes below 100 kg, as well as for consumer daily use scenarios. Additionally, export-only products and research/testing reagents are exempt from routine reporting obligations.

Adjustments to Consumer Obligations for Using or Storing Hazardous Substances

When using or storing hazardous substances, individual consumers are exempt from two key obligations: Compliance with mandatory hazardous substance handling standards is no longer required. Implementation of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) requirements is waived.

Import Declaration Exemptions for Three Hazard Classes

Imports of the following substances of acute human hazards, chronic human hazards, and ecological hazards are exempt from standard declaration procedures if they meet any of these criteria: intended for scientific research or testing, annual import volume below 100 kg, already registered as restricted substances or for consumer self-use purposes.

The MOE stated that the revisions aim to address potential ambiguities in enforcement standards following the implementation of the amended law. By refining classification management and expanding exemptions, the adjustments reduce compliance burdens for businesses and consumers while ensuring public safety. The revised K-CCA Enforcement Regulations will take effect on August 7, 2025, in alignment with the amended K-CCA.

About CIRS

CIRS Group is a leading provider of comprehensive regulatory compliance services and solutions for chemicals, cosmetics, food and food-related products, agrochemicals, and medical devices. Its chemical team consists of experts with extensive knowledge in chemistry, toxicology, environmental science, and related fields. They are well-versed in various international regulations, including but not limited to CSCL, EU REACH, CLP, GHS, TSCA, and K-REACH. 

CIRS operates a subsidiary in South Korea. By leveraging the expertise of CIRS Korea and the international team, CIRS can provide enterprise various South Korean chemical services, including but not limited to:

• K-REACH resigstration;

• K-BPR compliance; and

• KOSHA SDS submission.

If you need any assistance or have any questions, please get in touch with us via service@cirs-group.com.

Further Information

MOE