GCA | Korea KC Mark Certification

High-Efficiency Energy Equipment Certification Update for 2025 Starting January 1, 2025, tubular LED lamps (external converter type) and centrifugal pumps (Water Supply, Double Suction Volute, Ground Motor Separated) will no longer be part of the High-Efficiency Energy Equipment certification list. New certifications and extensions will only be valid until September 30, 2024. This regulation is effective immediately upon announcement. Ensure compliance by reviewing the certification status of your products. For more information, feel free to reach out. 👉 Contact GCA Tel. +82-31-360-8180 Email: forest.lee@gca-kr.com GCA Global Website

Fire Safety for Electric Bicycles and Scooters   As the use of electric bicycles and scooters grows, so do fire risks, mainly due to battery overcharging or damage. According to the National Fire Agency, most fire incidents stem from these issues. To prevent accidents, the Korean Agency for Technology and Standards (KATS), along with other safety bodies, recommend: • Using KC-certified products •  Checking for battery issues before and after use •  Avoiding direct sunlight or high temperatures •  Charging away from emergency exits, and unplugging after charging Stay safe by following these guidelines!   If you have any questions regarding KC certification for electric bicycles and scooters, please feel free to contact us via the email below. 👉 Contact GCA Tel. +82-31-360-8180 Email: forest.lee@gca-kr.com GCA Global Website

  MFDS, Guidelines for Analysis Methods of Hygiene Products The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) announced on September 25 the establishment of new guidelines for analyzing allergenic substances in hygiene products, including common items like tissues and detergents. These guidelines are a significant step forward in ensuring consumer safety by providing a method to accurately identify 25 allergenic substances that are present in the fragrances used in these products. This will enable manufacturers to quickly and effectively verify these components, helping to ensure product safety. Key Details of the Guidelines The guidelines provide essential information on pre-treatment methods, analysis equipment, testing conditions, and calculation formulas for simultaneously analyzing 25 allergenic substances, including Amyl Cinnamal and Benzyl Alcohol. For More Information You can find more detailed information about these guidelines on the MFDS website . 👉 Contact GCA Tel. +82-31-360-81

Korean Autonomous Driving Data Standard Adopted as U.S. Standard The autonomous driving traffic signal data standard (TLSM) proposed by Korea has been incorporated into the 2024 revised edition of the SAE J2735 standard, the de facto international standard in the autonomous vehicle field, published on the 16th (U.S. time).   The Korean Agency for Technology and Standards (KATS) proposed the KS R 1600-3 (Traffic Signal Data) standard, developed by the National Police Agency and Korea Road Traffic Authority, for the SAE J2735 revision. This proposal was accepted, following the 2023 MOU between KATS and SAE.   Since 2020, the Korean Agency for Technology and Standards (KATS) has been working with relevant ministries and industries to establish seven national standards (KS) for autonomous driving data, including scenarios for data usage, vehicle information, traffic signals, maps, control systems, and pedestrian safety. This work is expected to be completed by 2025. 👉 Contact GCA

  U.S. to Ban the Sale of Vehicles Equipped with Chinese or Russian Software The U.S. government has announced regulations that will ban the sale of autonomous and connected vehicles using Chinese or Russian software and components starting in 2027. These regulations will apply to key technologies, including Vehicle Connectivity Systems (VCS) and Autonomous Driving Systems (ADS), effectively prohibiting vehicles equipped with these technologies from being sold in the U.S. Key details: • Software Ban: Applies to 2027 vehicle models and onward. • Hardware Ban: Applies to 2030 models and onward. • Vehicles without model years: Subject to the ban starting January 1, 2029. This move is aimed at protecting U.S. national security and data privacy, given concerns that Chinese and Russian technologies could pose significant risks to critical infrastructure and connected vehicles. For companies like Hyundai and Kia, as well as auto parts suppliers, this regulation may require supply chain adjust

  Korea-Czech Industry and Energy Tech Forum Held in Prague The Czech Republic, known for its global leadership in precision machinery, optics, and nanomaterials, is strengthening its technological ties with Korea. To further enhance this cooperation, the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy hosted the Korea-Czech Industry and Energy Tech Forum on September 20 in Prague. Key Participants and Outcomes Over 40 Czech institutions, including the Czech Technical University, and various Korean organizations, such as Hyundai and Sungkyunkwan University, took part in this significant event. A total of 12 Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) were signed during the forum, aimed at promoting collaboration in robotics, laser technology, hydrogen, and other advanced fields. These agreements pave the way for more concrete technological exchanges between the two nations. Future Plans for Cooperation The forum also focused on plans to develop mid-to-large scale R&D projects in fields like precis

  Overseas direct-purchase cosmetics With the rise in overseas direct purchases of cosmetics, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) has issued important precautions to help prevent consumer harm. Unlike officially imported products, which undergo strict safety inspections in Korea, cosmetics purchased via overseas direct channels do not go through such processes. It's highly recommended to choose officially imported products whenever possible.   Key Precautions for Buying Overseas Cosmetics: Watch Out for False or Exaggerated Claims: Don’t be misled by ads claiming medical benefits like improving dermatitis or reducing inflammation. Always Check Ingredients: Ingredient restrictions vary by country, so it's crucial to review the ingredient list thoroughly. Read the Product Manual: Make sure to check the manual and precautions before using any product, and consult a specialist if any side effects occur.   The MFDS is currently