Korea–Thailand Trade Overview
Under AKFTA (ASEAN–Korea FTA), ~95% of tariff lines are duty-free between Korea and Thailand. Korean SMEs and chaebols alike leverage Thailand for automotive, electronics, and food imports.
Top Import Categories
- Auto parts and rubber components
- Processed rice and tapioca starch
- Natural rubber and latex products
- Air conditioner components
- Fashion accessories and leather goods
Regulatory Compliance
KC Mark (Korea Certification)
Mandatory for electrical, electronic, and children's products. Testing via KTL, KTR, or KTC labs.
KFDA (MFDS)
Food, cosmetics, and medical devices require MFDS registration before import.
Labeling
Korean-language labels required on all consumer goods — importer name, origin, ingredients, use-by date.
Duty Under AKFTA
- Preferential 0% duty requires Form AK Certificate of Origin
- VAT: 10%
- Special consumption tax on select luxury/vice goods
Shipping Bangkok → Busan/Incheon
- Transit: 7–10 days (direct); 12–15 days (transshipment)
- 40'HC rate: ,100–1,600 (2026 average)
- LCL: $65–85/CBM
Payment & Currency
- Letter of Credit still common for KRW 100M+ orders
- T/T 30/70 typical for repeat orders
- Trade insurance via K-SURE recommended for new suppliers
FAQ
Q: Is KC Mark testing done in Thailand or Korea? A: Testing must be done at KATS-designated labs; some Thai factories partner with KTL Bangkok for local testing.
Q: What's the AKFTA duty rate for auto parts? A: Most HS 8708 lines are 0% under AKFTA with valid Form AK.
Q: Do I need a Korean import license? A: General items no; regulated items (food, cosmetics, chemicals) require sectoral permits.
Q: How long does MFDS food registration take? A: 15–60 days depending on category and documentation completeness.