South Korea (MSIT) Issues Notice Mandating USB Type-C Interface

The South Korean Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) issued Notice No. 2025-56 on November 5, 2025, stipulating that from November 5, 2026, various electronic devices sold in South Korea must be equipped with USB Type-C charging and data transfer interfaces.

This regulation applies to 13 categories of devices that charge via wired connection or simultaneously perform charging and data transfer, including: mobile phones, tablets, digital cameras, headphones, headsets, portable game consoles, portable speakers, e-book readers, keyboards, mice, portable navigation devices, earbuds, and laptops.

According to the technical standards simultaneously developed by the National Radio Research Institute (RRA), the mandatory USB Type-C interface will be physically consistent with the international standard IEC/EN 62680-1-3. This measure aims to reduce electronic waste, improve device compatibility, and provide consumers with a more convenient and standardized charging experience. The introduction of this policy marks a significant step forward for South Korea in promoting the standardization of consumer electronics interfaces, and is expected to have a significant impact on the product design and market strategies of relevant device manufacturers.

BTL's recommendations to relevant device manufacturers:

I. Promptly Adjust Product Planning and Design

1. Product Line Review: Review product lines planned for the South Korean market and identify which models will be sold after November 5, 2026.

2. Interface Redesign: For affected products, charging and data transfer interfaces must be uniformly changed to USB Type-C. This involves not only a change in the physical interface but may also involve overall adjustments to internal circuit boards, power management chips, and structural molds. The development cycle is long and needs to be initiated as soon as possible.

3. Special Considerations for Laptops: While laptops are included, they typically have higher power requirements. Ensure that the USB Type-C interface used supports sufficient power transfer (such as the USB PD protocol) to meet the fast charging needs of devices.

II. Strictly Adhere to Technical Specifications

1. Physical Dimension Compliance: Ensure that the physical dimensions of the interface fully comply with the IEC/EN 62680-1-3 standard referenced in Annex 1 of this notification. Simply "looking like" it isn't enough; rigorous testing and certification are required. (PS: Detailed documentation in Attachment 1 can be obtained from BTL's International Department/Business Department.)

2. Protocol and Function Considerations: While regulations currently primarily emphasize physical specifications, to ensure a good user experience and compatibility, manufacturers should also pay attention to and support common charging protocols (such as USB PD) and data transmission standards.

III. Certification and Compliance Process

1. Early Certification: The Korean market has mandatory KCC certification for wireless communication equipment. Interface changes are considered major design changes; products that still do not use USB Type-C interfaces must complete certification before November 5, 2026.

2. Documentation and Labeling Updates: For products switching to USB Type-C interfaces, user manuals, product labels, and charging specifications on packaging must be updated to clearly indicate the use of a USB Type-C interface. Samples must be resubmitted for testing and must comply with local Korean regulations.

Summary: Products applying for KCC certification before November 5, 2026, are not required to use a USB Type-C interface; all new applications after this date are required to use it.

As a professional organization with over 20 years of experience in Korean certification, BTL can provide certification services for all the aforementioned controlled products, helping companies meet the new regulations and successfully enter the Korean market. For any inquiries, please contact BTL's International Department or BTL's Business Department.