South Korea Launches Government System to Authenticate K-Brand Products

South Korea has introduced a new government-backed system designed to protect Korean brands from counterfeit products being sold overseas.

The K-Brand Government Certification System, which officially began on October 7, allows eligible Korean companies to place a government certification mark on their products. Consumers abroad can scan the mark using a smartphone camera to verify whether a product is genuine.

The initiative is also an intellectual-property enforcement measure. South Korea’s Ministry of Intellectual Property will hold the rights to the certification mark and use information generated through authentication scans to help identify potential counterfeit distribution. Where infringement is detected, Korean authorities can coordinate with foreign enforcement agencies and other government bodies.

The system arrives as Korean products, particularly cosmetics, food and other K-brands, gain popularity internationally. The government says counterfeit K-brand products have become a growing problem, creating risks for both businesses and consumers.

Thirty-one companies, including Samyang Foods, Amorepacific and Korea Ginseng Corporation, have applied to participate in the initial programme. Small and medium-sized businesses can also receive financial support towards adopting authentication technology.

The initiative illustrates how trademark protection, technology and government enforcement are increasingly being combined to protect products in global markets.