South Korea's KCC Radio Certification ensures that electronic and wireless devices comply with RF performance, EMC, SAR, and electrical safety standards. Understanding the latest 2025 dynamics is crucial for manufacturers and importers entering the Korean market.
Key Points:
Certification managed by Korea Radio Authority (RRA)
Mandatory for all wireless devices sold or used in South Korea
New updates in 2025 include EMC standard upgrades and safety standard transitions
| Test Category | Core Focus | Primary Standards/References |
|---|---|---|
| RF Performance | Frequency range, output power, frequency stability, modulation, occupied bandwidth, spurious emissions | RRA Announced Standards (typically aligned with ETSI/ITU) |
| EMC | EMI emissions (conducted/radiated), immunity (ESD, EFT, etc.) | KS X 3124 (General), KS X 3126 (Broadband, incl. 5G), KN 301 489 (equivalent to EN 301 489) |
| SAR | RF energy absorption rate for body-worn devices (phones, earphones) | Korean limit: 2.0 W/kg (aligns with EU) |
| Electrical Safety | Electrical insulation, fire prevention, shock hazard | KN 60950-1; transitioning to KS X IEC 62368-1 |
Verifies radio parameters to ensure frequency range and output power remain within licensed Korean limits
Spurious emissions are critical to prevent interference with other devices
Ensures devices operate normally in electromagnetically noisy environments
2025 Update: Major EMC standards (KS X 3124, KS X 3126) updated to align with ETSI, including requirements for mmWave and other new technologies
Mandatory compliance after Dec 1, 2025 transition
Mandatory for body-worn devices such as phones and earphones
Ensures RF exposure remains within safe limits
Focuses on insulation, fire prevention, and shock hazards
Safety standards are transitioning from KN 60950-1 to IEC 62368-1, new designs should follow IEC 62368-1
EMC Standards Upgraded
Affects 5G and Wi-Fi 6E devices
May increase test complexity and cost
Safety Standard Transition
Shift from KN 60950-1 to IEC 62368-1
Recommended for new device designs
Ongoing System Optimization
RRA is introducing a Self-Compliance Verification system for low-risk products
Continuous updates aim to simplify compliance for certain categories
Q1: Which devices require KCC Radio Certification?
All wireless devices sold or used in South Korea, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, cellular, and mmWave products.
Q2: What are the main standards for 2025?
RF: RRA Announced Standards
EMC: KS X 3124, KS X 3126, KN 301 489
SAR: max 2.0 W/kg
Electrical Safety: IEC 62368-1 (transitioning from KN 60950-1)
Q3: Are there major 2025 changes I should be aware of?
EMC standards updated for 5G/mmWave
Safety standards transitioning to IEC 62368-1
RRA introducing self-compliance for low-risk products
Q4: How long does testing and certification typically take?
Varies by product complexity; RF/EMC/SAR testing usually requires several weeks
For consultation on South Korea KCC Radio Certification or multi-market compliance strategies, contact:
King Guo | king.guo@cblueasia.com | +86 135 3422 5140
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