South Korea Updates List of Restricted and Prohibited Chemicals

On September 26, 2024, the Ministry of Environment of South Korea issued Notice No. 2024-612, announcing significant amendments to the designations of restricted and prohibited substances. The revisions aim to update the usage limits of certain chemicals based on the hazard assessment results under the Chemicals Registration and Evaluation Act, as well as considering related international regulations.

The specific amendments include:

• Chrysotile and mixtures containing more than 1% chrysotile (previously coded 06-5-7) were removed from the restricted substances list and added to the prohibited substances list under code 06-4-27 (which previously included mixtures containing more than 1% crocidolite). The manufacture, import, sale, storage, transportation, and use of these substances are prohibited.
• The restriction for code 06-5-8 was expanded to include lead and its compounds, prohibiting their use in paints unless specifically for the manufacture and maintenance of certain aviation or military equipment.
• Dichloromethane and mixtures containing more than 0.1% dichloromethane were newly designated as restricted substances (code 06-5-15), specifically prohibiting their use in household cleaning agents and sprays, as well as paint removers for home, construction, and furniture applications.

The Ministry of Environment has begun soliciting public comments on these revisions. Groups or individuals with opinions shall submit their feedback to the Ministry by October 16, 2024. These amendments reflect the South Korean government's stringent approach to chemical management, aimed at further protecting public health and environmental safety.

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Further Information

Korea Gov.