South Korea to Enforce USB Type-C in November 2026

South Korea will begin mandating the use of USB Type-C on telecommunications and electronic devices in November 2026 to enforce unified technical standards.

This is in accordance with regulations previously issued on November 5, 2025, via Notification No. 2025-56. The National Radio Research Agency (RRA) had already planned to enforce the regulation one year after its issuance.

This requirement means manufacturers and importers will need to review their devices to ensure they comply with the USB Type-C standard. This article will explain what the regulation covers, the rationale behind it, and what to expect.

The Reason for Implementing the USB Type-C Regulation

For years, electronics users have been faced with various types of connectors, ranging from micro-USB to proprietary connectors. This has resulted in each device requiring a different charger.

The variety of chargers across different devices has led to several problems. There are three main issues: a lack of standardization, electronic waste, and unprotected consumers.

• Lack of connector standardization: This leads to market fragmentation and reduced interoperability.
• E-waste: Purchasing different chargers for each device increases electronic waste.
• Unprotected consumers: Differences in chargers across devices increase safety risks and lead to a lack of device compatibility.

The Purpose

The RRA, through Notification No. 2025–56, seeks to establish technical standards regarding charging methods and data transmission for broadcasting and telecommunications equipment. This aims to prevent the waste of resources and ensure consumer convenience.

Furthermore, this regulation aligns with South Korea’s broader agenda to support digital transformation. The government, through the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT), emphasizes the importance of secure, efficient, and sustainable infrastructure.

The use of USB Type-C is considered part of the technical foundation supporting the digital ecosystem, ranging from mobile devices to the Internet of Things (IoT). The selection of USB Type-C for standardization is due to its capabilities in terms of higher data transfer speeds and more stable charging.

Policy Implications

South Korea’s latest policy has significant implications on the global stage. Previously, starting in late 2024, the European Union announced a similar policy mandating USB Type-C for all smartphones and electronic devices.

With this move, South Korea is joining the growing international trend toward connector standardization. This helps advance the adoption of USB Type-C as a universal standard, ensuring that the transition toward a more compatible and sustainable device ecosystem is not a major obstacle.

Covered Devices

This regulation will apply to 13 types of wireless broadcasting and telecommunications equipment that support wired charging or both wired charging and data transfer. The following devices are required to use the USB Type-C standard:

1. Cell phones
2. Tablets
3. Digital cameras
4. Headphones
5. Headsets
6. Portable video game consoles
7. Portable speakers
8. E-book readers
9. Keyboards
10. Mice
11. Portable navigation devices
12. Earphones
13. Laptops

USB Type-C Connector Conformity Assessment Requirements

The following are the conformity assessment requirements for USB Type-C connectors, as specified in Annex 1 of Notification No. 2025-56:

• Equipment Classification: Categorized under Terminal Equipment as a USB Type-C Receptacle Connector (Connection Connector).   
• Assessment Scope: Focuses specifically on Wired interface testing to evaluate charging efficiency and data transmission stability.   
• Assessment Type: Governed under the Self-Conformity Confirmation scheme.   
• Device Code: Assigned the official RRA device code USBCR for certification tracking.
• Applicable Technical Standard: Strictly regulated under the “Technical Standards on Charging and Data Transmission Methods for Broadcasting and Communication Equipment such as Mobile and Smart Devices”.

When Does This Regulation Take Effect?

Since its publication on November 5, 2025, Notification No. 2025‑56 has entered the awareness-raising and implementation adjustment phase. This regulation will not take effect until November 6, 2026.

This means that all new devices certified after the effective date must comply with the USB Type-C standard. However, products already certified before the effective date are exempt, including any subsequent modifications.

Impact on South Korean Type Approval

Any new regulation naturally requires attention from manufacturers or those importing products into South Korea. This is because any new regulation may require adjustments to the requirements for submitting telecommunications device certification applications.

In this case, manufacturers or importers must review their telecommunications products to ensure that connector specifications and assessment documentation comply with the new provisions. Making these adjustments before marketing your products in South Korea will help avoid certification delays.

Key Action Before November 2026

To ensure a smooth market transition, manufacturers and importers need to take certain steps. This will help prevent delays in the certification of telecommunications devices in South Korea.

Here are some things to consider:

• Manage inventory schedules: If it is not possible to follow the latest procedures, you can take advantage of the exemption provisions by completing certification before the deadline.
• Review the product lineup to be launched: Ensure the integration of USB Type-C interfaces in devices to be launched in South Korea after the fourth quarter of 2026.
• Update technical documentation: Align internal compliance files, user manuals, and technical specifications with the updated RRA standards for charging and data transmission.