For anyone looking to sell cosmetics products in Korea, an important regulatory requirement is the Responsible Cosmetic Sales (화장품책임판매업) license. Below is a concise explanation of what it covers and who needs it.
What is Responsible Cosmetic Sales?
Responsible cosmetic sales refers to business operations that manage the quality and safety of cosmetics while distributing or selling them, and may include import-agency activities that broker or assign products.
Which businesses require a Responsible Cosmetic Sales license?
Any business that sells cosmetics in Korea and/or export them outside Korea must register with the regional office of the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS). These businesses must also appoint a Responsible Sales Manager to oversee quality and safety across the supply chain—from receipt of raw materials to shipment of finished products—covering areas such as testing, inspection, documentation, and labeling review.
What does the license indicate about the business?
Holding a Responsible Cosmetic Sales license indicates that the business is legally authorized to distribute and sell cosmetics in Korea and to export cosmetic products overseas. It does not imply the company manufactures cosmetics. The license signals compliance with MFDS standards and a commitment to consumer safety.
Coverage in KOBDi: The KOBDi database includes businesses registered with a Responsible Cosmetic Sales (화장품책임판매업) license. This information appears on each Business Profile page, and Korean companies with this license can be found via the KOBDi Korea Industry Search.