Guide for Self-Inspection and Reporting of Non-Compliance under K-REACH: 2025 Updates and Steps
Introduction
Recently, the Ministry of Environment of Korea issued a notification regarding the self-inspection and reporting of non-compliance issues under the Act on the Registration and Evaluation of Chemicals (hereinafter referred to as K-REACH).Enterprises that manufacture or import chemicals within Korea before February 27, 2025, but have not fulfilled their obligations under chemical regulations, are encouraged to voluntarily organize and report their non-compliance during the grace period for self-inspection and rectification of non-compliance to correct violations and qualify for penalty exemption.
Updates on Self-Inspection and Reporting of Non-Compliance
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Since the announcement of this policy, REACH24H Consulting Group has promptly responded and actively initiated countermeasures. It has been observed that the official key inspection targets include existing substances submitted for registration by tonnage after the registration grace period.
In principle, any substances with non-compliance issues identified before February 27, 2025, are encouraged by the authorities to submit self-inspection reporting materials during the compliance process.
It should be specifically noted that for existing substances submitted for registration by tonnage after the registration grace period, the authorities will focus on confirming with the applicant whether the substance has any non-compliance facts during the review of the registration dossier. Applicants will be required to include a description of non-compliance issues in their application materials.
For example, for existing substances submitted for registration in the 100-1,000 tonnage band or 1,000+ tonnage band in 2025, the authorities require the inclusion of a declaration of self-inspection for non-compliance in the registration submission documents.
What Steps Should You Take for K-REACH Compliance During the Grace Period?
REACH24H recommends that enterprises complete the following actions within the grace period (ending October 27, 2025):
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Review the chemical substance inventory exported to Korea before February 27, 2025, and identify registration deficiencies in accordance with K-REACH regulatory requirements.
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REACH24H clients can use the KRSCC System to apply for Tonnage Coverage Certificates for Korean importers, prepare import declaration materials, and ensure the seamless flow of compliance information within the supply chain.
Special Notice: Post-Grace Period Enforcement
Following the conclusion of the grace period, Korean authorities will enforce end-to-end enhanced supervision under the “Declaration-Verification-Penalty” framework. Enterprises that fail to rectify in a timely manner will face criminal liability and substantial economic penalties. REACH24H advises enterprises to respond promptly and ensure complete rectification is completed within the regulatory compliance window.
