New Days for Cosmetics and Medical Devices in South Korea

Starting 2025, South Korea introduces ‘Cosmetics Day’ on September 7 and ‘Medical Devices Day’ on May 29. These days aim to highlight both the cosmetics and medical device sectors in the country.

Key Highlights

The South Korean government has passed six legislative amendments. Here’s what you should know:

• Beauty enthusiasts can look forward to ‘Cosmetics Day’ on September 7. This is part of the ‘Cosmetics Act’ amendments.
• For healthcare professionals and industries, ‘Medical Devices Day’ on May 29 will now be observed, according to updates to the ‘Medical Device Act’ and the ‘In Vitro Diagnostic Medical Device Act’.

Cosmetics Day: A Step Towards Global Competitiveness

The ‘Cosmetics Act’ went through changes to boost international competitiveness. Here’s what the changes mean:

1. Date Introduction:
   • September 7 is now ‘Cosmetics Day’.
   • Focus on increasing public awareness of cosmetics safety and quality.
2. Accessibility Changes:
   • Products will include braille or voice codes.
   • Videos in sign language will be used for people with visual or hearing impairments.
3. Import Regulations:
   • Stringent check on directly-purchased foreign cosmetics.
   • Immediate import ban on dangerous products.

Medical Devices Day: Elevating Industry Standards

The medical device sector also sees changes to highlight its role in future growth.

1. Recognition and Significance:
   • ‘Medical Devices Day’ on May 29 will draw attention to the industry’s importance.
2. Financial Regulations:
   • New regulations on property seizure for unpaid fines regarding medical devices or in vitro diagnostics.
3. Asset Information:
   • Authorities can now request asset information like land, buildings, and vehicle records.

Other Important Amendments

Alongside the significant days for cosmetics and medical devices, several other changes are worth noting:

• The ‘Food Sanitation Act’ merges restaurant certifications into a single hygiene grading system. The old exemplary store system is no longer in use.
• The ‘Narcotics Control Act’ adds support for social reintegration for those recovering from addiction. There is emphasis on continuous protection and management.
• Legislation around the issuance of test results allows for electronic documentation, providing ease of access.

What to Expect

For cosmetics and medical device stakeholders:

• Increased consumer trust due to enhanced safety measures.
• Better global competitiveness owing to clear regulatory standards.
• Easier access to property and import information for the authorities.

For consumers:

• Assurance of product safety and quality.
• Better access to product information, particularly for the visually or hearing impaired.

These changes aim to reshape how cosmetics and medical devices operate in South Korea. This means more awareness, improved safety standards, and a better competitive stance on a global scale.