Specialized Goods Import Duty & Landed Cost: United States to South Korea
Full 2026 tariff breakdown, customs duty calculations, and compliance alerts for importing into South Korea.
2026 Tariff & Cost Breakdown for Importing Specialized Goods
The total cost of importing Specialized Goods from the United States to South Korea includes a 6.5% duty and a 10% VAT, calculated based on the CIF value in USD. This means that importers must factor in these costs when determining the final price of their goods.
Cost Breakdown
| Component | Rate | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Product Value | — | EUR 0.57 |
| Shipping | — | EUR 0.00 |
| Insurance | — | EUR 0.00 |
| CIF Value | — | EUR 0.57 |
| Customs Duty | 6.5% | EUR 0.04 |
| VAT/GST | 10% | EUR 0.06 |
| Total Landed Cost | — | EUR 0.67 |
HS Code Classification for Specialized Goods
Primary HS Code: 2934.990000 — What It Covers
The primary HS Code for Specialized Goods is 2934.990000, which covers a specific range of products. Importers must ensure accurate classification to avoid penalties.
Why Misclassification Carries Risk in South Korea
Misclassifying HS Codes can result in fines and potential confiscation of goods, emphasizing the need for accurate classification and compliance with Korea Customs Service regulations.
Step-by-Step Guide: Importing Specialized Goods from United States to South Korea
Step 1: Verify Your HS Code & Product Description
Importers must verify their HS Code and product description to ensure accuracy and compliance with Korea Customs Service requirements.
Step 2: Gather Required Import Documents
Required documents include a commercial invoice, certificate of origin, and packing list, which must be properly prepared and submitted to Korea Customs Service.
Commercial Invoice Requirements
A commercial invoice must include the country of origin and be stamped with the company seal to be considered valid in South Korea.
Certificate of Origin
A certificate of origin is required to verify the country of origin and eligibility for KORUS FTA benefits.
Packing List & Shipping Documents
A packing list and shipping documents must be accurately prepared to facilitate smooth customs clearance.
Step 3: Calculate Your Landed Cost
The landed cost is calculated as CIF + Duty (6.5%) + VAT (10%) = Total, in USD.
Step 4: Submit to South Korea Customs Authority
Importers must submit their documents and goods to Korea Customs Service for clearance and inspection.
Step 5: Pay Duties & Clear Goods
After clearance, importers must pay duties and taxes, and arrange for the release of their goods from Korea Customs Service.
How to Legally Reduce Duty on Specialized Goods Imports into South Korea
Applicable Free Trade Agreements in 2026
The United States-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA) reduces or eliminates tariffs on certain Specialized Goods imported from the United States to South Korea.
Duty Deferral Options: Bonded Warehouses & FTZs
Importers can use the Free Trade Zone (FTZ) program to defer duty payments on their goods.
Preferential Tariff Programs
The Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) offers preferential tariffs for eligible Specialized Goods imported into South Korea.
South Korea Customs Compliance Rules for Specialized Goods
Korea Customs Service Requirements for Specialized Goods
Korea Customs Service requires importers to comply with regulations, including obtaining KC Mark certification and FDA certification for certain products.
De Minimis Threshold
The de minimis threshold is set at 150 USD, below which no duties or taxes are payable.
Frequently Asked Questions About Specialized Goods Import Duty from United States to South Korea
What is the duty rate for Specialized Goods imported from the US to South Korea?
The duty rate is 6.5%. Importers must also pay a 10% VAT on the CIF value in USD.
Do I need a certificate of origin for Specialized Goods imports?
Yes, a certificate of origin is required to verify the country of origin and eligibility for KORUS FTA benefits.
Can I use a bonded warehouse to defer duty payments?
Yes, importers can use the Free Trade Zone (FTZ) program to defer duty payments on their goods.
What is the de minimis threshold for Specialized Goods imports into South Korea?
The de minimis threshold is set at 150 USD, below which no duties or taxes are payable.
Do I need to obtain KC Mark certification for my Specialized Goods imports?
Yes, KC Mark certification is required for certain products, as mandated by Korea Customs Service.
Can I claim preferential tariffs under the KORUS FTA?
Yes, eligible Specialized Goods imported from the US to South Korea may qualify for preferential tariffs under the KORUS FTA.