On July 11, 2025, South Korea’s National Radio Research Agency (RRA) issued Notice No. 2025-50 to revise electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards and test methods under the “Notice on Conformity Assessment of Broadcasting and Communication Equipment.” This update reflects a broad adoption of newer Korean Industrial Standards while also reinstating older versions for certain product categories, signaling a nuanced recalibration of the national conformity framework. The revisions will take effect one month after the notice date, with transitional provisions allowing previously tested products to retain their validity.
Comparison of Previous and Updated Standards
The table below outlines the key changes to EMC test standards, showing where older standards have been reinstated or newer versions adopted:
| Test Category | Original Standard | Current Standard |
|---|---|---|
|
Low-frequency immunity test for public low-voltage distribution network |
KS C 9610-2-2:2017 |
KS C 9610-2-2:2024
|
|
Electromagnetic compatibility test for industrial program controllers |
KS C IEC 61131-2:2022 |
KS C IEC 61131-2:2017
|
|
Electromagnetic compatibility testing of protective relays |
KS C IEC 60255-26:2020 |
KS C IEC 60255-26:2013
|
|
General EMC test for wireless devices |
KS X 3124:2020 |
KS X 3124:2024
|
|
EMC of certain low-power wireless devices for wireless data communication systems |
KS X 3126:2020 |
KS X 3126:2024
|
|
EMC test of non-digital code telephones |
KS X 3128:2014 |
KS X 3128:2024
|
|
EMC test for daily radios |
KS X 3131:2014 |
KS X 3131:2024
|
|
EMC testing of simple radio stations |
KS X 3127:2014 |
KS X 3127:2024
|
|
EMC testing of specific low-power wireless devices |
KS X 3125:2020 |
KS X 3125:2024
|
|
EMC for voice/audio signal low-power wireless devices |
KS X 3130:2014 |
KS X 3130:2024
|
|
EMC of frequency-sharing radiotelephones (TRS) |
KS X 3127:2014 |
KS X 3127:2024
|
|
EMC of amateur radio station equipment |
KS X 3136:2014 |
KS X 3136:2024
|
|
EMC of wireless calling radio equipment |
KS X 3137:2014 |
KS X 3137:2024
|
|
EMC of implantable wireless medical devices |
KS X 3134:2014 |
KS X 3134:2024
|
|
EMC of wireless satellite mobile communications devices |
KS X 3139:2014 |
KS X 3139:2024
|
|
EMC of low-voltage switchgear and control devices |
KS C IEC 60947-1:2017 KS C IEC 60947-2:2022 KS C IEC 60947-4-1:2022 |
KS C IEC 60947-1:2014 KS C IEC 60947-2:2019 KS C IEC 60947-4-1:2018 |
Regulatory Considerations for Manufacturers
Manufacturers, importers, and conformity assessment bodies should closely review the new testing protocols and prepare for recertification if their existing approvals rely on now-replaced standards. While previously certified products remain valid, any changes affecting EMC performance may necessitate re-evaluation under the current methods.
The updates reflect both an effort to modernize testing infrastructure and a recognition that some recent standard versions may not align with local compliance needs. By selectively reinstating older standards, the RRA maintains technical control and ensures compatibility across equipment classes.
For this article’s source information and any product certification guidance, please contact Global Validity.
Quick Country Facts
South Korea
Certification Body: Korea Communication Commission (KCC)
Certification Type: Mandatory
License Validity: Indefinite
Application Language: Korean
Legal License Holder: Manufacturer
In-Country Testing Requirement: In-Country Testing
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