🇰🇷Can a buyer in South Korea import from United States?🇺🇸
We track no embargo or sectoral sanctions programme covering this country pair. The ordinary rules still apply: customs, VAT and any product-specific permits in South Korea.
Tariffs and trade agreements
Yes, via KORUS FTA (in force 2012-03). Preferential tariffs apply to qualifying goods with proof of origin.
- KORUS FTA Source
Import requirements in South Korea
- Import VAT in South Korea (B2B)
- Import VAT of 10% is charged in South Korea on the goods plus freight plus duty. NTS Korea Duty depends on the HS code; put both into the landed-cost calculator.
- Customs identity: Customs-registered business number
- Importers clear goods under their business registration number through the UNI-PASS system. Korea Customs Service (UNI-PASS)
- Documents that travel with the shipment
- Commercial invoice · Packing list · Transport document (CMR, bill of lading or air waybill) · Customs declaration, filed by you or your broker · Proof of origin, when claiming a preferential duty rate
Reviewed 2026-07-21. Full guide: how to import into South Korea.
18,161 suppliers in United States on record
Manufacturers and wholesalers based in United States, each card carrying the open-record facts we hold and the source behind them.
Frequently asked questions
- Can a company in South Korea buy from a supplier in United States?
- We track no embargo or sectoral sanctions programme covering this country pair. The ordinary rules still apply: customs, VAT and any product-specific permits in South Korea.
- What VAT applies when importing from United States into South Korea?
- Import VAT of 10% is charged in South Korea on the goods plus freight plus duty.
- Do South Korea and United States share a trade agreement?
- Yes, via KORUS FTA (in force 2012-03). Preferential tariffs apply to qualifying goods with proof of origin.
- What does a South Korea buyer need to clear customs?
- A business importing into South Korea needs a Customs-registered business number. Importers clear goods under their business registration number through the UNI-PASS system. A normal commercial shipment also travels with: Commercial invoice, Packing list, Transport document (CMR, bill of lading or air waybill), Customs declaration, filed by you or your broker, Proof of origin, when claiming a preferential duty rate.
Before contracting, verify the supplier.
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