This document provides updated information as of 2025 regarding the documentation requirements and validity period for South Korea's KCC (Korea Communications Commission) mandatory certification. The KCC certification framework is now unified under the broader KC Mark system, though specific rules for radio equipment remain distinct.
| Certification Element | 2025 Core Information |
| Official Name | KC Certification (Radio Equipment Category), commonly referred to as KCC Certification. |
| Legal Basis | Radio Waves Act. |
| Governing Body | National Radio Research Agency (RRA). |
| Purpose | To regulate radio communication equipment, ensuring compliance with RF and EMC technical standards to maintain communication order. |
| Mandatory Scope | Devices with wireless communication functions (e.g., mobile phones, Bluetooth devices, Wi-Fi equipment, RFID modules). |
Required Documentation Checklist：
Preparing complete and accurate documentation is the first critical step for successful KCC certification.
1.Technical Core Documents：
·Circuit Diagrams & RF Specifications: Must clearly label all RF-related components and parameters.
·Technical Specifications: Detail operating frequency bands, modulation types, output power, and other RF parameters.
·User Manual in Korean: Mandatory. Must include safety warnings and operating instructions.
2.Testing & Compliance Documents：
·Complete Test Reports: Issued by a Korean-accredited laboratory, covering core tests like RF (frequency, power, bandwidth) and Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC).
·SAR Test Report (if applicable): Required for wireless devices used near the head or body (e.g., phones, smartwatches) to assess Specific Absorption Rate.
3.Administrative & Legal Documents：
·Korean Authorized Representative Proof: Overseas manufacturers must appoint a locally registered company in Korea and provide a Power of Attorney. This is mandatory and cannot be bypassed.
·Business License: Of the applying company.
4.Sample Requirements：Prepare 2-3 fully functional prototype samples, identical to the final mass-production version.
Validity Period & Maintenance：
A crucial and often misunderstood concept: The KCC certification certificate itself does not have a fixed, automatic expiration date (e.g., 3 or 5 years).
However, this "permanent validity" is conditional. The certification becomes invalid or requires immediate updating under the following circumstances:
1.Product Design Changes: Any modification to the hardware, core firmware, antenna design, or RF circuitry that could affect RF performance immediately invalidates the certification, requiring re-testing or a change application.
2.Regulatory Updates: When Korean authorities publish new technical standards, manufacturers are responsible for ensuring ongoing compliance. Failure to do so may void the certificate.
Practical Guidance：
1.KC Safety Certification Distinction: Note that KCC (radio certification) and KC Safety Certification are separate mandatory certifications. KCC governs communication devices and RF, while KC Safety focuses on electrical safety. Some products (e.g., Wi-Fi-enabled smart appliances) may require both.
2.Document & Labeling Requirements:
·A Korean user manual is mandatory.
·Upon certification, the KC Mark and certification number must be permanently and visibly displayed on the product.
3.Non-Compliance Risks: Products without KCC certification or found non-compliant face risks including customs detention and potential significant fines.
king.guo@cblueasia.com
+86 135 3422 5140
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