GCA | Korea KC Mark Certification

Review of the Progress in International Standardization of Rare Earth Recycling and Analysis Methods Review of the Progress in International Standardization of Rare Earth Recycling and Analysis Methods   On January 31, the Korean Standards Association visited the Korea Basic Science Institute to assess the progress of rare earth standardization since the establishment of the "Rare Earth International Standardization Strategy." In line with the strategy, the Korean Standards Association is actively working on developing five international standards related to rare earths. These include methods for quantitative analysis, characterization methods, and labeling requirements for rare earth recycling. The proposals for these standards were presented at the International Organization for Standardization Technical Committee 298 (ISO/TC 298) meeting held in Incheon in October.   The standardization of rare earth quantitative analysis and inductively coupled plasma characterization m

Development of national standards for companies producing biodegradable resins Development of national standards for companies producing biodegradable resins   The National Institute of Environmental Research, in collaboration with the Korea Environmental Industry & Technology Institute, has developed testing methods for measuring biodegradable resin materials. These methods are set to be officially established and announced as national standards (KS) on January 31st.   The newly established national standards outline testing methods and procedures for determining the material composition and content of five commonly used biodegradable resins and molded products composed of these resins.   The testing method compares a product's biodegradability test results or detailed information with a 'Biodegradable Resin Ingredient Database' to confirm if the product is made from biodegradable resin. This approach reduces testing time and costs while addressing challenges in determ

Recycled PET bottle materials' quality is confirmed through national standard testing methods Recycled PET bottle materials' quality is confirmed through national standard testing methods The National Institute of Environmental Research has developed national standards (KS) for quality testing methods for recycled PET bottle materials (PET bottle flakes). The standards will be officially established and announced on January 29.   The national standard testing methods aim to maintain rigorous and consistent quality control at every stage of the recycling process, from collection to washing and production, specifically for producing high-quality recycled products like fibers from discarded PET bottles.   The National Institute of Environmental Research and the Korea Environmental Industry & Technology Institute collaboratively developed national standards for quality testing items and methods, considering the domestic recycling system and market preferences. These standards d

new SSD product, 990 EVO /  Samsung Electronics Samsung Electronics releases the new SSD product, 990 EVO   On the 24th, Samsung Electronics announced the release of a new consumer SSD product, the '990 EVO.'   Samsung Electronics released the consumer SSD '990 EVO' with improved sequential read and write speeds of up to 5000MB/s and 4200MB/s, respectively, representing a 43% and 30% increase over its predecessor. The use of a self-developed 5-nanometer controller enhances power efficiency by up to 70%. The product also employs Host Memory Buffer (HMB) technology, eliminating the need for internal DRAM and strengthening price competitiveness while maintaining performance.   The product seamlessly switches interfaces based on the user's PC system, ensuring excellent compatibility and stability. It maintains optimal performance even on PCIe 5.0-based ultra-slim notebooks, and the heat dissipation label prevents performance degradation by efficiently managing heat.  

  Disposable Hygiene Products The Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) has announced regulations regarding the recall and disposal of hygiene products. These regulations are open for public comments until February 13, 2024. The proposed measures include the introduction of a new safety rating system for hygiene products and the establishment of detailed procedures for their recall and disposal. ● Key Contents - Definition of terms used in the recall process - Establishment of procedures for inappropriate emergency notifications from testing and inspection agencies, as well as supervision and inspection agencies - Establishment of Criteria and Justification for Hazard Rating - Establishment of step-by-step operational procedures for government agencies and recall operators. 👉 Contact GCA Tel. +82-31-360-8180 Email: forest.lee@gca-kr.com GCA Global Website

South Korea-UK FTA first-round improvement negotiations commence South Korea-UK FTA first-round improvement negotiations commence The first official negotiations to enhance the South Korea-UK Free Trade Agreement are set to occur in Seoul from January 23 to January 25. The South Korean delegation, led by An Chang-yong, Director-General for FTA Policy, and the UK delegation, led by Adam Fenn, Deputy Director of the Department for International Trade, will consist of over 50 representatives from both countries.   The South Korea-UK Free Trade Agreement, initiated as the UK exited the EU, eased business uncertainties and fostered economic cooperation. However, there's a recognized need to update the agreement to align with contemporary global trade norms, including digital trade and supply chains, as the current focus is primarily on goods and services market access. 양식의 맨 위 Last November, during President Yoon Suk-yeol's visit to the UK, both countries declared the start of negot

  Concerns are growing as the most intense solar activity in the past two decades has begun this year, leading to potential damages such as communication disruptions, satellite malfunctions, and power transmission facility impairments due to sunspot explosions. In response to this, the National Radio Research Agency (RRA) of Korea and the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) signed an agreement on January 17th to establish a strategic cooperative framework for solar storm monitoring capabilities between South Korea and the United States, in preparation for potential space weather disasters caused by solar activities. The National Radio Research Agency plans to establish and operate a satellite receiving station in Jeju, South Korea, to directly process and mutually share data collected by NOAA's SWFO-L1 satellite. 👉 Contact GCA Tel. +82-31-360-8180 Email: forest.lee@gca-kr.com GCA Global Website

LG CNS AI Center Launches LG CNS AI Center Launches LG CNS announced on the 21st that it has established the "AI Center," an enterprise AI specialized organization, by integrating technology research and business exploration and execution in the field of artificial intelligence.   The AI Center is an organization that includes the "Generative AI Business Unit," which focuses on exploring generative AI businesses in collaboration with enterprise customers, the "AI Business Unit," which performs differentiated AI businesses, including the Future Contact Center (FCC), and the "AI Research Institute," composed of four AI labs specializing in language, vision, data, and AI engineering. LG CNS offers six generative AI offerings to enterprise clients, including knowledge-based internal response, visual content creation, business support and automation, FCC, generative BI (Business Intelligence), and AI coding. The offerings encompass services suc

discuss collaboration opportunities in the next-generation battery sector South Korea and the U.S. discuss collaboration on next-generation batteries   On January 18, the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy met with a delegation of business leaders, including Derek Johnson, Chief Operating Officer of Solid Power, to discuss collaboration opportunities in the next-generation battery sector. Solid Power, a leading U.S. company in the field of solid-state batteries, has recently signed memoranda of understanding (MOUs) with various Korean private companies and public research institutes, including SK On, the Korea Electronics Technology Institute (KETI), and the Korea Evaluation Institute of Industrial Technology (KEIT). This indicates an expansion of collaboration through joint research and development (R&D).   The Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy plans to support the development of advanced battery technologies, including solid-state batteries, through a project that pas

  Clinical Trials of Pharmaceuticals The Korea Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) has revised regulations regarding the approval of clinical trial plans for pharmaceuticals. This notification will take effect from January 16, 2024. - Allow the submission of non-animal or human biology-based test (cell-based assays, microphysiological systems, bioprinting, computer modeling, etc.) data for non-clinical trial data. 👉 Contact GCA Tel. +82-31-360-8180 Email: forest.lee@gca-kr.com GCA Global Website

8th Korea-France New Industry Technology Cooperation Forum in Paris, France South Korea and France explored collaboration in advanced technology during the forum   On January 17th, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy of South Korea and the French Ministry of the Economy and Finance jointly held the 8th Korea-France New Industry Technology Cooperation Forum in Paris, France. The forum aimed to share the outcomes of joint research and development (R&D), explore collaborative projects between industries and academia of both countries, and seek global partners.   The 8th Korea-France New Industry Technology Cooperation Forum took place in Paris on January 17. Attended by over 200 representatives, the forum included morning sessions with keynote speeches, R&D program introductions, and case presentations. In the afternoon, a 1:1 technology consultation session allowed 80 French companies and 25 Korean companies to engage in discussions. Notable participants included Oh Seung-

  Radio Telecommunication Antenna Notice of Partial Amendment to the Radio Wave Act Enforcement Ordinance The Ministry of Science and ICT will partially revise the Radio Wave Act Enforcement Ordinance. Public comments will be accepted until February 26, 2024. - Improvement of the Regular Inspection System for Multiple Wireless Stations Installed in the Same Location or Operated by the Same Facility Manager. - Relaxation of regulations from approval to notification for the establishment process of stationary terminals such as intelligent CCTV within the 5G-dedicated network. - Extend the full exemption of frequency usage fees for small and economical mobile carrier operators by one year, followed by a phased implementation of frequency usage fees thereafter. - Relaxation of Evaluation Fees for High-Power and Leakage Electromagnetic Wave Safety Assessments. - Rationalization of the Conformity Assessment Designation Test Agency Evaluation System. 👉 Contact GCA Tel. +82-31-360-8180 Email:

Hyundai Motor Ioniq 5N Performance Concept NPX1  On January 12, 2024, Hyundai Motor unveiled the Ioniq 5N Performance Concept model NPX1 at the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon, equipped with N Performance components. The Ioniq 5N Performance Concept model NPX1 features lightweight hybrid carbon wheels, high-performance brake pads, lowered springs, enhancing its dynamic driving performance. The interior is equipped with Alcantara material and racing bucket seats. The Ioniq 5N Performance Concept model NPX1 features high-performance aerodynamic components, including a real carbon front splitter, side skirts, rear diffuser, and rear wing spoiler, optimized for high-performance driving.   The parts featured in this concept model serve as a prototype showcasing Hyundai's vision for future N Performance components. Hyundai aims to refine product development and introduce Ioniq 5N Performance parts in 2024. Additionally, there are plans to expand the N brand's lineup by launching N Performanc

  over-the-counter medications The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety will officially launch the 'Over-the-Counter Medication Mobile Easy Search Service' this year, making it easy and convenient for users to check safety information for over-the-counter medications. The mobile easy search service for over-the-counter medications allows users to scan the barcode on the medication with their smartphones, providing safety information for the respective item through text, voice, and sign language videos. The provided safety information, including product name, manufacturer/importer, efficacy, usage, dosage, and precautions, is expected to be beneficial for information-vulnerable groups such as those with visual or hearing impairments. 👉 Contact GCA Tel. +82-31-360-8180 Email: forest.lee@gca-kr.com GCA Global Website

Adjustment of safety management level for motorized boards To ensure the reasonable operation of the safety management system for consumer goods, the safety management level of motorized boards is revised from being a subject of supplier suitability confirmation in consumer goods to a subject complying with safety standards in consumer goods.   Opinions will be collected until February 20, 2024. 👉 Contact GCA Tel. +82-31-360-8180 Email: forest.lee@gca-kr.com GCA Global Website

On January 9th, the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy signed the Letter of Intent for Joining the South Korea-Central American Free Trade Agreement in Guatemala. Director-General No Geon-gi represented the Korean government, and Central American representatives, including Foreign Minister Mario Bucaro, signed on behalf of Central America, in the presence of President Alejandro Giammattei of Guatemala. Before the signing ceremony, South Korea and five Central American countries (Costa Rica, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama) held a Joint Committee meeting to approve Guatemala's accession to the South Korea-Central America Free Trade Agreement (FTA). South Korea, Guatemala, and five other Central American countries officially signed the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) after completing their domestic procedures. The agreement will undergo national ratification processes before final enforcement. 👉 Contact GCA Tel. +82-31-360-8180 Email: forest.lee@gca-kr.com GCA Glo

CES, the world's largest ICT and consumer electronics exhibition, has expanded into various sectors such as mobility, health, and beauty. This year, with the participation of numerous Chinese companies, it is expected to be the largest-ever. South Korea is also set to have its largest presence with over 760 companies, including major corporations like Samsung, LG, Hyundai, and SK, as well as small and medium-sized enterprises.   This year's theme is 'All Together, All On,' symbolizing the collaboration of all technologies and industries to address global challenges. The spotlight is on the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) development across various industries.   This year, a record-breaking Integrated Korea Pavilion at CES will feature the joint participation of 32 organizations and 443 companies, including the Ministry of SMEs and Startups and the Seoul Metropolitan Government.   On January 10th, KOTRA is hosting K-Innovation Day, featu

  RRA Notification of conformity assessment of Broadcasting and Communication Equipment is revised and implemented. - Applying import requirements is exempted to the imported equipment intended for re-export without exemption confirming process of conformity assessment (Effective date: December 29, 2023) - Unclear and ambiguous classification system of EMC products list is revised including detailed information (Effective date: June 30, 2024) 👉 Contact GCA Tel. +82-31-360-8180 Email: forest.lee@gca-kr.com GCA Global Website

The revised regulations on the operation of energy management equipment, announced on January 2, 2024, outline the planned effective date of the amendments to energy management equipment.   -       Clothing dryers: Starting from April 1, 2024 -       Electric water heaters, dehumidifiers, set-top boxes: Starting from July 1, 2024 -       Air purifiers, dishwashers, portable air conditioners, linear LED lamps (external converter), pumps, computers, multifunction devices: Starting from January 1, 2025   Linear LED lamps (external converter), and pumps can undergo energy efficiency measurements and report the results from October 1, 2024.   👉 Contact GCA Tel. +82-31-360-8180 Email: forest.lee@gca-kr.com GCA Global Website

  The safety standards for children's products subject to safety certification have been revised, simplifying KC certification for children's play equipment. This notice will be effective as of January 5, 2024. - For multiple models of children's play equipment that are installed in a one-time quantity, despite being made of the same material, each model had to undergo individual hazardous chemical substance tests. However, going forward, only one model will undergo hazardous chemical substance testing for the same material. 👉 Contact GCA Tel. +82-31-360-8180 Email: forest.lee@gca-kr.com GCA Global Website

  The MFDS is planning to partially revise the enforcement rules of the Medical Devices Act. Public comments will be accepted until February 5, 2024. - Considering the unnecessary technical document review for the approval of Class 1 and Class 2 export medical devices, the process for permit-targeted Class 1 and Class 2 export medical devices will be eased to certification and notification. - In the event of the discovery of foreign substances in medical devices, detailed regulations will be established regarding the criteria, methods, and procedures for disclosing facts related to the discovery of foreign substances, allowing for the publication of such information. - Medical device importers are required to have warehouse and testing facilities. However, facility standards for software medical device importers, which do not require warehouse and testing facilities, will be revised. - The renewal fees for medical device manufacturing and import permits will be determined. Medical Devi

  LG Electronics' OLED evo has been selected as the best TV by U.S. consumer media ahead of the opening of the world's largest home appliance and IT exhibition, CES 2024, in Las Vegas, USA. According to industry sources, the U.S. consumer media Consumer Reports selected the 'Best TVs of 2024' as the new year began. In the 'Best TVs Overall' category, the 2023 models LG OLED evo 65G3 and 65C3 secured the 1st and 5th positions, respectively. Consumer Reports praised the 65G3 model, which claimed the top spot, stating, 'It received the highest overall score, especially in terms of HDR quality,' and commended its 'excellent sound quality.' The 65C3 product, securing the 5th position, also received acclaim for having 'an exceptionally outstanding picture quality. LG Electronics is set to unveil the new 2024 models of LG OLED TVs at CES 2024. 👉 Contact GCA Tel. +82-31-360-8180 Email: forest.lee@gca-kr.com GCA Global Website

  Regulations regarding the reevaluation of medical devices by the MFDS are expected to be partially revised. Public comments will be accepted until January 17, 2024. - To swiftly overcome public health crises, improvements have been made to exclude products designated as public health crisis response medical devices from reevaluation. - Even in cases where there are domestically available alternative medical devices, improvements have been made to exclude products from reevaluation if they are deemed essential for stable public health supply support. Medical Devices (MFDS) 👉 Contact GCA Tel. +82-31-360-8180 Email: forest.lee@gca-kr.com GCA Global Website

Hyundai Motor's electric SUV, Ioniq 5, has been selected as the Singapore Car of the Year 2023 by the prominent local daily, The Straits Times.   Hyundai Ioniq 5 named "Singapore Car of the Year 2023" by The Straits Times, marking Hyundai's first win since the award's inception in 2003. The evaluation considered practicality, economy, performance, design, and more, with the Ioniq 5 securing the top spot with a total score of 399 points.   One of the judges for the Car of the Year, Lynn Tan, described the Ioniq 5 as an "all-rounder" with a "retro appeal, futuristic design, and surprisingly practical space." Another judge, Dr. Kong Yongyao, referred to it as a "remarkable triumph of imagination, ambition, and execution." With this award, Hyundai Motor aims to strengthen the image of being a "leading electric car brand" in Singapore, in conjunction with the "Hyundai Motor Group Singapore Global Innovation Center