South Korea Amends Chemical Regulations to Improve Hazard Classification and Labeling Consistency

27 March, 2026, Chemical Safety Agency (Notice No. 2026-6) issued a partial revision to the Regulations on Classification and Labeling of Chemical Substances, establishing detailed provisions aligned with the Chemical Substances Registration and Evaluation Act and the Chemical Substances Control Act. The regulation defines key terms such as hazard items, hazard classification, suppliers, container types (single and double packaging), and adopts the United Nations’ Globally Harmonized System (GHS) for classification and labeling. It also clarifies technical concepts including mixtures, aerosols, explosive substances, dust, vapor, and parameters like weight and multiplication coefficients used in hazard evaluation. The scope of application covers classification criteria for hazardous substances, notification of hazard examination results, and labeling requirements for hazardous chemicals. It ensures that suppliers, including manufacturers and importers, correctly classify and label chemicals based on standardized hazard categories. The revised framework strengthens consistency in hazard communication by aligning domestic requirements with international standards, particularly GHS. It also provides a structured basis for evaluating risks related to physical, health, and environmental hazards, including skin irritation, eye damage, and aquatic toxicity. Overall, the amendment aims to enhance chemical safety management, improve clarity in hazard classification and labeling practices, and ensure effective communication of risks throughout the supply chain.