To reduce electronic waste, minimize resource wastage, and enhance consumer convenience, the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) of South Korea officially issued Public Notice No. 2025-56 on November 5, 2025. This notice establishes a unified technical standard for charging and data transmission interfaces for “broadcasting and communication equipment such as mobile and smart devices.”
This regulation will significantly impact electronic products sold in the South Korean market. Key highlights are summarized below:
1. Core Regulatory Requirements
Any controlled equipment that features wired charging, or combined wired charging and data transmission functions, must be equipped with a USB Type-C connector that complies with the specified technical specifications.
2. Technical Standards and Specifications
- Interface Specification: The USB Type-C connector must comply with the physical dimensions and contact point definitions listed in the public notice.
- Certification Marking: During the South Korea KC certification process, the interface specification will be a mandatory item for technical review and will be associated with the USBCR equipment code.
3. Critical Timeline
- Issue Date: November 5, 2025.
- Mandatory Effective Date: This notice will take effect one year after the issuance date (i.e., starting November 6, 2026).
4. Controlled Product Categories (13 Categories Total)
According to Article 2 of the Public Notice, the affected wireless broadcasting and communication equipment includes:
- Mobile Phones
- Tablets
- Laptops
- Digital Cameras
- Headphones
- Headsets
- Earphones
- Portable Game Consoles
- Portable Speakers
- E-book Readers
- Keyboards
- Mice
- Portable Navigation Devices
