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Editor's Note: This article was originally published in March 2026 to report the draft amendment to the K-REACH Enforcement Rules, and was updated on 12 May 2026 to introduce the finalized version.
Following the amended K-REACH Enforcement Decree on 6 May 2026 (read more), the partial amendment to the K-REACH Enforcement Rules was adopted on 12 May 2026 and took effect immediately.
Previous article issued on May 4, 2026:
On April 28, 2026, South Korea's Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment (MCEE) invited the public to give comments on a draft partial amendment to the Enforcement Rules of the Act on the Registration and Evaluation, etc. of Chemical Substances (a.k.a. K-REACH Enforcement Rules). According to MCEE Notice No. 2026-434, comments on these proposed changes are welcome before June 8, 2026. However, by MCEE Notice No. 2026-447 issued on May 4, 2026, the MCEE announced that the comment period had been shortened and ended on May 4, 2026.
This draft partial amendment provides the necessary administrative framework for the previously amended K-REACH (Act No. 21132), which was promulgated on 11 November 2025 and set to take effect on 12 May 2026. The proposed amendments to the K-REACH Enforcement Rules are designed to ensure procedural consistency and will align with the implementation of the revised K-REACH. This initiative aims to establish detailed procedures for resolving disputes during the joint submission and utilization of chemical registration data, outline the application process for data submission grace periods, and clarify the rules for succession of duties when an overseas manufacturer changes its appointed representative.
Proposed updates
To streamline the rules regarding the formation of consortiums and the methods for joint submissions.
To establish a formal dispute resolution process. Companies facing potential disruptions in their registration process due to data sharing conflicts can submit a dispute resolution application to the MCEE. Once the MCEE issues a proposed resolution, the involved parties have a strict 30-day compliance period to notify the authorities of their acceptance.
To outline specific numerical thresholds and timelines for data submission grace periods. Registrants requiring the original owner's consent to use registration data may apply for a submission grace period by providing supporting documentation to the National Institute of Chemical Safety (NICS). NICS is required to review and notify the applicant of the result within 30 days. If an extension to this grace period is necessary, affected parties must submit an extension application at least 30 days before the initial grace period expires.
To clarify the rules for transferring 'Only Representative'. Overseas manufacturers and producers that intend to change their appointed representatives must formally submit proof of succession to the Korea Environment Corporation (KECO) to maintain the validity of previously performed regulatory duties.
Industry professionals and affected stakeholders are invited to review the draft amendment and provide feedback before June 8, 2026.
