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Discovery of Microorganisms for Eco-Friendly Extraction of Metals from Waste Batteries

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Discovery of Microorganisms for Eco-Friendly Extraction of Metals from Waste Batteries   The National Institute of Biological Resources (NIBR), under the Ministry of Environment, announced that last year it discovered three types of microorganisms in an abandoned mine in Gyeongsangbuk-do, capable of eco-friendly reduction of key minerals from waste batteries used in electric vehicles. Recently, they confirmed the potential of these microorganisms to extract and separate metal resources. In collaboration with researchers, NIBR demonstrated that over 95 % of key minerals such as lithium, nickel, manganese, and cobalt were separated after leaching the cathode active material, used in the positive (+) electrode of lithium-ion batteries, in a microorganism-activated solution for 24 hours. NIBR plans to file a patent this month related to this bioleaching technology, which uses microorganisms to extract valuable metal components instead of toxic inorganic acids. Follow-up research will be c

KS Standard Set for Air Purifiers' Airborne Bacteria Reduction Evaluation Method

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Air Purifier The National Institute of Environmental Research (NIER) has established and announced the national standard (KS I ISO 16000-36) for testing the airborne bacteria reduction performance of air purifiers. This standard is an adaptation of the 2018 international standard (ISO 16000-36) to better fit the domestic industry and is expected to enhance the reliability of performance evaluation and product quality.  International Standard for Airborne Mold Reduction Performance NIER is also working on establishing an international standard for evaluating airborne mold reduction performance. The proposed standard was approved as the Final Draft International Standard (FDIS) on September 17, 2024, and is expected to be officially established this year. Importance of KC Certification To sell air purifiers in Korea, obtaining KC certification is essential. KC certification ensures product quality and safety and is a crucial requirement for entering the domestic market. For more details

New CCC Certification Requirements for Lithium-Ion Batteries and Chargers in Electric Bicycles

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To strengthen the quality and safety management of electric bicycles, the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) has decided to implement the China Compulsory Certification (CCC) for lithium-ion batteries and chargers used in electric bicycles. Please take note of the following details: Starting from October 15, 2024, designated certification bodies will begin accepting CCC certification applications for lithium-ion batteries and chargers used in electric bicycles. The certification process will be carried out in accordance with the relevant implementation rules and applicable standards for compulsory product certification. Starting from November 1, 2025, lithium-ion batteries and chargers used in electric bicycles must obtain CCC certification and be labeled with the CCC certification mark before they can be shipped, sold, imported, or used in any other commercial activities. Certification bodies and laboratories responsible for the CCC certification and testing of these pr

MFDS Issues Guide on GMP Certification for Biopharmaceutical Raw Materials

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  Biopharmaceutical Raw Material Manufacturing Facility The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) published the “Guide on Submission Requirements for GMP Certification of Biopharmaceutical Raw Material Manufacturing Sites” on October 8 to support the research and development of domestic biopharmaceutical raw materials. This guide includes the targets of GMP certification, applicable standards, submission requirements, evaluation methods, and procedures. The MFDS expects this certification system to enhance the quality and reliability of domestic biopharmaceutical raw materials and contribute to their localization. The agency plans to select target companies for the GMP certification program by November. It will continue to actively support the research, development, and commercialization of biopharmaceutical raw materials. 👉 Contact GCA Tel. +82-31-360-8180 Email: forest.lee@gca-kr.com GCA Global Website

MFDS Hosts Forum on AI and Food & Drug Safety Prevention

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  MFDS Hosts Forum on AI and Food & Drug Safety Prevention On October 2, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) held a forum titled “The Future of Food and Drug Safety with AI,” in collaboration with the National Information Society Agency and the Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information. The forum introduced the pilot model of the “I’M-PRO” AI platform , which detects safety issues in real-time using data from media and social networks. Discussions covered AI trends, healthcare AI tech, and strategies for enhancing food and drug safety management. Key Features of I’M-PRO: Real-time Issue Detection : Collects and analyzes data from multiple sources to detect safety issues. AI-Driven Analysis : Classifies and evaluates risk levels to support fast responses. This event highlights MFDS’s commitment to leveraging AI for better safety management. 👉 Contact GCA Tel. +82-31-360-8180 Email: forest.lee@gca-kr.com GCA Global Website

Proposed Amendment to the Resource Circulation Act for Electronics

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Electronics Resource Circulation The Ministry of Environment (ME) announced a new amendment to the Resource Circulation Act on September 25, expanding recycling obligations to cover all electronic devices, including small products like wireless earphones and portable fans. This change is expected to enable the recycling of 76,000 tons of additional waste annually, generating over 200 billion KRW in benefits. Newly added items include multifunctional products and small imports, while industrial equipment and military supplies will remain exempt. The amendment is set to take effect in 2026, following stakeholder feedback and a grace period for smooth implementation. 👉 Contact GCA Tel. +82-31-360-8180 Email: forest.lee@gca-kr.com GCA Global Website

Hyundai Mobis Achieves First Cybersecurity Certification in Asia

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  Vehicle Cyber Security (VCS) Hyundai Mobis has become the first Asian automotive parts supplier to receive the Vehicle Cyber Security (VCS) certification from the European Network Exchange (ENX). This certification, awarded at a ceremony held at the Hyundai Mobis R&D Center in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, confirms the company’s compliance with Europe’s stringent cybersecurity standards. As of July 2024, Europe has mandated VCS certification for all newly registered vehicles to protect against cyber threats, such as hacking and data breaches. This regulation reflects the rising importance of cybersecurity, especially as Software-Defined Vehicles (SDV) with integrated IT functions become more common in the market. Hyundai Mobis’s successful certification demonstrates its advanced capabilities in vehicle cybersecurity, boosting its global competitiveness and paving the way for securing future orders and expanding its presence in the international market. If you have any questions rega