Customs attorney, do I really need to write the personal customs clearance code when shopping overseas?

Yes. When shopping overseas, you must submit a personal customs clearance unique code.

This number is a unique number assigned by the Korea Customs Service to identify individuals, and must be entered when filing import declarations.

Previously, only date of birth was sufficient, but as cases of submitting false information increased, since December 2020, submission of a personal customs clearance unique code has become mandatory for all items subject to list clearance.

List clearance refers to a clearance system where clearance is possible only with an invoice listing the names, phone numbers, and addresses of the sender and recipient.

In general, list clearance is possible for self-use items of $150 or less, and even in this case, the personal customs clearance unique code must be entered.

However, some items may be excluded from list clearance, so be sure to check.

The personal customs clearance unique code can be easily issued through identity verification on the Korea Customs Service website or mobile Korea Customs Service app.

The Customs Act has complex scope and interpretation, and detailed regulations are also diverse, so it is advisable to seek advice from a customs attorney with expertise in the customs field when problems arise.

Since expert interpretation is often required depending on the matter, incorrect response may result in disadvantages. We recommend consulting with a customs attorney for accurate judgment and response.