South Korea Ministry Revises Chemical Regulations to Control Restricted and Prohibited Substances    

"On November 19, 2025, the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment issued Notice No. 2025-28, partially revising the designation of restricted and prohibited chemical substances under the Act on the Control of Chemical Substances. The notice aims to prohibit the manufacture, import, sale, storage, transport, and use of highly hazardous substances, either for specific or all purposes, in accordance with relevant provisions of the Act, its Enforcement Decree, and the Chemical Substances Control Act.
- The notice defines key terms, including “compound” as a substance formed by chemical bonding of two or more elements, and “salts” as substances produced by neutralization reactions between acids and bases. Restricted substances are those prohibited for specific purposes, while prohibited substances are barred from any use. Appendices and tables in the notice provide detailed lists of such chemicals.
- The notice establishes enforcement and transitional measures. Importers of newly designated toxic substances must submit declarations within six months, and businesses handling these substances are required to obtain hazardous chemical business licenses within two years, ensuring compliance with facility, equipment, and personnel standards. Additional transitional measures include labeling, preparation of off-site impact assessment reports, and adherence to hazardous chemical handling standards.
- The notice also sets staggered enforcement dates for certain substances, such as lead, chromium(6+) compounds, acrylamide, and 4,4'-methylenebis(2-chloroaniline), reflecting their specific industrial uses. These measures include phased restrictions on manufacturing, import, sale, storage, transport, and use, with detailed deadlines for compliance.Overall, the 2025 notice reinforces chemical safety regulations, enhances environmental and human health protection, and ensures a structured transition for businesses to comply with updated requirements for handling restricted and prohibited chemical substances in South Korea."