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JD.com Launches Korean Logistics Hubs – KCs Certification Required for Equipment
JD.com, one of China’s leading e-commerce giants, has established its own logistics centers in South Korea for the first time. With facilities located in Incheon and Icheon, the company will now offer third-party logistics and same-day delivery services to business clients in Seoul and parts of Gyeonggi Province. The Icheon center specializes in pet-related products, while the Incheon hub serves as an integrated logistics base for global consumer brands and Korean beauty product exporters. In tandem, JD.com has signed last-mile delivery agreements with major Korean logistics firms CJ Logistics and Lotte Global Logistics, signaling a potential shift from a B2B model to full-scale direct-to-consumer retail operations in South Korea. A lot of logistic center equipment like lifts, robots, conveyor belts, etc. usually require KCs certification in order to be approved for import and sale in Korea.
This marks the first instance of a major Chinese online retailer independently operating logistics infrastructure in Korea—a strategic move interpreted as a full-fledged entry into the Korean market. JD.com’s expansion comes amid rapid growth by Chinese platforms like AliExpress and Temu, who have been attracting Korean consumers through ultra-low pricing and aggressive marketing. According to Seoul-based app market analytics firm WiseApp, AliExpress’s transaction value in Korea nearly tripled from 2022 to 2024, while Temu’s surged almost twentyfold within a single year. JD.com’s arrival is expected to intensify the ongoing “C-commerce” wave, which is reshaping the Korean e-commerce landscape. Facing slowing domestic growth, JD.com and its Chinese peers such as Alibaba and PDD Holdings are accelerating their global expansion, with Korea seen as a key market.
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Hyundai Expands Hydrogen Strategy with New Ulsan Fuel Cell Plant
Hyundai Motor Co. has announced plans to construct a next-generation hydrogen fuel cell plant within its existing automotive complex in Ulsan, approximately 300 kilometers south of Seoul. The decision, made in coordination with its labor union, is part of the company’s broader strategy to consolidate its hydrogen fuel cell operations and accelerate the development of a comprehensive hydrogen energy value chain. Mass production at the new facility is scheduled to begin in 2028. Once operational, the plant will become the world’s second-largest hydrogen fuel cell manufacturing site, following Hyundai’s HTWO Guangzhou plant in China. Fuel cell systems from the Chungju facility, formerly operated by Hyundai Mobis, are currently used to manufacture the NEXO hydrogen fuel cell vehicle in Ulsan. Certain equipment incolved in fuel cell production like pressure vessel and hydrogen systems in general usually require KGS certification in order to be approved for import and sale in South Korea.
This expansion reflects Hyundai Motor’s commitment to scaling up hydrogen infrastructure beyond automotive applications. Under the HTWO brand, the company aims to cover the entire hydrogen ecosystem, from production to consumption, and presented this ambition at CES 2024. Hyundai has set a goal to increase its annual hydrogen usage to 3 million tons by 2035. A recent visit by Hyundai executives to Japan signals an effort to establish cross-border hydrogen cooperation. The firm is also preparing to diversify its hydrogen-related business portfolio, pending shareholder approval. Despite weak global demand for hydrogen energy, Hyundai remains one of the leading hydrogen FCEV producers alongside Toyota, and it plans to launch the INITIUM model in the first half of this year as a successor to the NEXO.
Feel free to contact us any time if you need assistance or have any questions regarding Korean certifications like KC, KC EMC, KCs, KCs for explosion safety products or KGS factory registration.
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For more information you can download our free brochure “Korea Certification Made Easy – The Booklet“.
Enhanced Safety Measures rolled out in Samsung SDI’s new EV Battery Design
Samsung SDI has finalized the development of its “No-Thermal Propagation” (No-TP) technology aimed at preventing the spread of heat in electric vehicle (EV) batteries—a leading cause of battery-related fires. Announced through the company’s newsroom on February 18, the technology incorporates specialized safety materials and a cooling plate to isolate thermal events at the cell level, thereby extending battery life and usability by allowing for localized component replacement. A proprietary software tool, the Thermal Propagation Calculator (TPc), plays a key role by quantifying thermal propagation risks and supporting engineers in optimizing battery design from the earliest development phases. The Korean government has already declared plans to introduce EV Battery Certification and Tracking. Other Battery types usually require KC Safety certification in order to be approved for import and sale in Korea.
The No-TP approach is applicable not only to individual cells but also to modules and packs, with TPc-optimized features already embedded in Samsung SDI’s latest battery products. Innovations such as insulation layers between cells and prismatic battery designs using a stacking method for electrode plates further enhance safety by reducing internal pressure and enabling multidirectional gas dispersion during malfunctions. These measures aim to mitigate gas accumulation and limit thermal incidents. Samsung SDI reaffirmed its commitment to developing high-capacity, reliable battery systems that meet evolving safety standards in the EV sector.
Feel free to contact us any time if you need assistance or have any questions regarding Korean certifications like KC, KC EMC, KCs, KCs for explosion safety products or KGS factory registration.
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POSCO Future M launches Domestic Production of Spherical Graphite
POSCO Future M, a prominent South Korean manufacturer of battery materials, has announced plans to produce spherical graphite domestically in a significant shift aimed at reducing reliance on Chinese imports. The company will establish a new subsidiary, provisionally named Carbon New Materials Co., to oversee the production process. This strategic move is supported by an investment of around 400 billion won (over $275 million), recently approved by the board, though the final plant location has yet to be confirmed. This initiative marks the first major localization effort in Korea for the production of spherical graphite, which is currently sourced exclusively from China. POSCO Future M aims to integrate this material into its anode production at the Sejong plant, reinforcing control over a key stage in the battery manufacturing chain.
Production equipment, as used in the production of battery anode materials, often requires KCs certification in order to be approved for import and sale in Korea.
The company’s move comes amid heightened concerns over supply security due to potential Chinese export restrictions and geopolitical instability. POSCO Future M’s domestic production strategy not only aims to secure its supply chain but also aligns with efforts to qualify for U.S. Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) incentives.
Feel free to contact us any time if you need assistance or have any questions regarding Korean certifications like KC, KC EMC, KCs, KCs for explosion safety products or KGS factory registration.
Tel. Europe: +49-69-271 37 69 259
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For more information you can download our free brochure “Korea Certification Made Easy – The Booklet“.
Samsung Edges ahead in Washer-Dryer Energy Test against Competition
Samsung Electronics is intensifying competition in the South Korean household appliance market with innovations in all-in-one washer-dryers.. Since both companies launched their latest models last year, energy consumption has become a key differentiator. The Korea Consumer Agency’s recent evaluation revealed that Samsung’s Bespoke AI Combo (WD25DB8995BB) uses approximately 1,160Wh per cycle—23% less than LG’s Tromm Objet Collection Wash Combo (FH25EAE), which consumes 1,432Wh. Samsung also demonstrated quicker operation, completing wash and dry cycles up to 30 minutes faster than LG. In standalone modes, Samsung maintained its advantage in both energy use and time savings. Home appliances usually require KC Safety certification in order to be approved for import and sale in Korea.
However, LG’s model showed superior performance in water efficiency, using 83 liters per cycle compared to Samsung’s 106 liters in the one-stop mode. This could appeal to environmentally conscious consumers focused on water conservation. As two of the nation’s leading electronics giants, Samsung and LG’s ongoing rivalry continues to shape consumer expectations, with energy efficiency, performance, and technological innovation becoming critical decision-making factors. The Korea Consumer Agency’s authoritative evaluations are playing a pivotal role in influencing public perception and driving product advancements.
Feel free to contact us any time if you need assistance or have any questions regarding Korean certifications like KC, KC EMC, KCs, KCs for explosion safety products or KGS factory registration.
Tel. Europe: +49-69-271 37 69 259
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For more information you can download our free brochure “Korea Certification Made Easy – The Booklet“.
Hyundai expands Hydrogen Bus Presence with over 1,000 Units Sold in Korea
Hyundai Motor Company has surpassed 1,000 units in cumulative sales of its hydrogen-powered electric bus, the Elec City FCEV, marking a major achievement in the advancement of eco-friendly urban transit. Introduced in 2019 as the first hydrogen urban bus globally, the Elec City FCEV embodies Hyundai’s extensive hydrogen R&D, initiated in 1998. Outfitted with a 180kW fuel cell system, 875-liter hydrogen tank, and a 78.4kWh high-output battery, the bus is designed for high-demand environments, achieving a range of up to 550 kilometers. The environmental benefits are considerable, with each unit potentially reducing CO₂ emissions by 72 tons annually. Hydrogen drive related components and equipment usually require KGS certification in order to be approved for import and sale in Korea.
To celebrate this milestone, Hyundai hosted an appreciation event on October 4 in Hwaseong, attended by stakeholders from regional transport associations and Hyundai’s Namyang Technology Research Institute. In a further push to scale hydrogen public transit, Hyundai signed an MoU with KD Transport Group earlier this year, targeting the conversion of 1,000 buses in the Seoul area by 2027. The company has also expanded its hydrogen vehicle line with the high-speed Universe FCEV and supports adoption efforts through incentives such as free repair parts valued at 40 million won per bus.
Feel free to contact us any time if you need assistance or have any questions regarding Korean certifications like KC, KC EMC, KCs, KCs for explosion safety products or KGS factory registration.
Tel. Europe: +49-69-271 37 69 259
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Email: info@korea-certification.com
For more information you can download our free brochure “Korea Certification Made Easy – The Booklet“.
S-Oil’s Hydrogen Infrastructure Project advances with Focus on Energy Efficiency
S-Oil is moving forward with its landmark Shaheen Project in Ulsan, committing over 9.26 trillion won to establish a next-generation petrochemical complex that integrates refining and chemical production. With completion targeted for late next year, the company is currently hiring experienced engineers to manage key processing facilities, including TC2C, steam cracker, HDPE, and LLDPE units. The project’s scope also includes a significant investment of 263 billion won in self-generation infrastructure at the Onsan plant. This involves the installation of gas turbine generators and waste heat recovery boilers to increase the site’s energy self-sufficiency from 10% to 42%. Hydrogen related system components and equipment usually require KGS Certification in order to be approved for import and sale in Korea.
Despite labor shortages and limited available construction sites, the project surpassed its progress target at the end of last year, reaching 51.8% completion—1.4 percentage points ahead of schedule. A central feature is the deployment of Saudi Aramco’s TC2C technology, enabling direct conversion of crude oil into petrochemical feedstock, which enhances cost-efficiency and positions S-Oil competitively on the global stage. As industrial electricity costs rise, the project’s self-generation strategy is expected to provide a decisive cost advantage.
Feel free to contact us any time if you need assistance or have any questions regarding Korean certifications like KC, KC EMC, KCs, KCs for explosion safety products or KGS factory registration.
Tel. Europe: +49-69-271 37 69 259
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Email: info@korea-certification.com
For more information you can download our free brochure “Korea Certification Made Easy – The Booklet“.
Hyundai and Kolon partner to advance Hydrogen Components for Future Mobility
Kolon Group and Hyundai Motor Co. have formed a strategic alliance to accelerate the development of hydrogen-based energy technologies, particularly components like pressure vessels. Through this collaboration, Hyundai has invested 20 billion won in Kolon Spaceworks, a subsidiary specializing in hydrogen mobility and composite materials. Kolon Spaceworks recently achieved international certification for a 54-liter hydrogen fuel tank, which strengthens its position in the high-pressure container market. This milestone allows the company to compete globally by validating its production capabilities. Certain components which are used for Hydrogen based energy technology, such as pressure vessels usually require KGS factory registration in order to be approved for import and sale in Korea.
Hyundai Motor Group’s participation includes the purchase of over 1 million new shares in Kolon Spaceworks, split between Hyundai and Kia at 12 billion and 8 billion won, respectively. The collaboration aims to leverage Kolon’s expertise in durable, heat-resistant materials—originally developed for aerospace and defense—for use in automotive applications such as hydrogen storage and battery protection. These developments support South Korea’s broader hydrogen economy initiative and reflect Hyundai’s significant commitment to sustainable transportation, including a domestic investment of 24.3 trillion won in technologies like electrification and hydrogen systems.
Feel free to contact us any time if you need assistance or have any questions regarding Korean certifications like KC, KC EMC, KCs, KCs for explosion safety products or KGS factory registration.
Tel. Europe: +49-69-271 37 69 259
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Email: info@korea-certification.com
For more information you can download our free brochure “Korea Certification Made Easy – The Booklet“.
Germany’s Merck Expands Semiconductor Materials Production in Korea
Merck, a German multinational, is preparing to launch local production of chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) slurry in Korea, following quality testing with domestic clients. CMP slurry, a critical component in semiconductor wafer surface treatment, is expected to be delivered starting in the first half of 2022. The material is used in combination with CMP pads to polish and planarize wafer surfaces. Merck previously established a CMP slurry production facility in Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi Province, as part of its Korea Advanced Technology Center (K-ATeC), which began operations in 2020. Electronic devices, semiconductor components, measurement and test equipment may require KC certification to be approved for import and sale in Korea.
CMP materials must be customized to suit individual manufacturers, prompting global suppliers to localize development and production to swiftly adapt to process changes. Alongside Merck, Japan’s Showa Denko is also building CMP slurry plants in Korea, intensifying competition with domestic firms such as Dongjin Semichem and KCTech. Additionally, Merck is preparing to manufacture an extreme ultraviolet (EUV) rinse solution locally, a material used for removing post-exposure residues specific to EUV lithography. Currently undergoing quality evaluation with Korean customers, this product was previously produced overseas. Merck’s 2019 acquisition, Versum Materials, is also strengthening its position in the Korean market by supplying double patterning technology (DPT) materials to companies including Samsung Electronics, which sources approximately half of its DPT materials from Versum.
Feel free to contact us any time if you need assistance or have any questions regarding Korean certifications like KC, KC EMC, KCs, KCs for explosion safety products or KGS factory registration.
Tel. Europe: +49-69-271 37 69 259
Tel. US: +1 773 654-2673
Email: info@korea-certification.com
For more information you can download our free brochure “Korea Certification Made Easy – The Booklet“.
South Korea strengthens Battery Safety Measures amid rising Fire Concerns
South Korean authorities are increasingly focusing on the safety of personal mobility (PM) device batteries following recent fire incidents. A house fire in Changwon, suspected to have involved an electric bicycle battery charger, has drawn attention to potential risks associated with lithium-ion batteries in PM devices. Investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the fire, and experts emphasize the importance of Battery Management Systems (BMS) to prevent overcharging and improve safety. Unlike electric vehicles, PM devices are often stored indoors, increasing the potential for residential fire hazards. Batteries typically require KC Safety certification to be approved for import and sale in South Korea.
The number of fires linked to electric bicycles and scooters has been rising, with cases nearly doubling between 2020 and 2022, according to fire department data. Experts highlight the need for improved public awareness, designated storage areas, and stricter safety regulations to address these risks. Authorities are urging consumers to take precautions, such as avoiding charging PM devices near exits and ensuring they are stored safely. As South Korea navigates the challenges posed by PM battery safety, regulatory updates and enhanced safety measures are expected to play a critical role in mitigating future risks.
Feel free to contact us any time if you need assistance or have any questions regarding Korean certifications like KC, KC EMC, KCs, KCs for explosion safety products or KGS factory registration.
Tel. Europe: +49-69-271 37 69 259
Tel. US: +1 773 654-2673
Email: info@korea-certification.com
For more information you can download our free brochure “Korea Certification Made Easy – The Booklet“.
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