South Korea
Key advice
The customs allowance for all personal goods is 800 USD (raised in 2022). For equipment exceeding this threshold, voluntarily declare it at the red channel to receive a 30% reduction on duties. Equipment clearly intended for tourist use is generally admitted without issues.
- Customs authority
- Korea Customs Service
- Personal duty-free allowance
- 800 USD
- ATA Carnet
- Accepted
- Official website
- customs.go.kr ↗
Practical scenarios
You're traveling to South Korea with a GoPro Hero 11 and its housing, with a total value of approximately 600 USD. This value is below the 800 USD allowance. You can proceed through the green channel without specific declaration. Keep your proof of purchase just in case, but the risk is minimal as your equipment is clearly for personal and tourist use. It's unlikely you'll be stopped.
You arrive in South Korea with a Sony A6700 mirrorless camera, an Ikelite housing, and a macro lens, with an estimated total value of 3,500 USD. This amount significantly exceeds the 800 USD allowance. It is imperative that you head to the red channel (declaration) upon arrival. Voluntarily declare your equipment to benefit from a 30% reduction on applicable customs duties. Prepare your invoices and a detailed list of the equipment. The risk is taxation if not declared.
Your equipment includes a Canon R5 full-frame camera, a Nauticam housing, two lenses (macro and fisheye), and aluminum arms, with a total value of 12,000 USD. An ATA Carnet is highly recommended for this value. If you don't have one, you must declare at the red channel. Present your invoices and specify professional/personal use. Without declaration, the risk is temporary seizure and heavy penalties, in addition to full customs duties.
Frequently asked questions
What is the customs allowance for camera equipment in South Korea?
The customs allowance for all personal goods imported into South Korea is 800 USD. If the value of your camera equipment exceeds this amount, a declaration is necessary.
What happens if I don't declare my camera equipment that exceeds the allowance?
If you do not declare equipment whose value exceeds 800 USD, you risk penalties, full customs duties without reduction, and potentially the temporary seizure of your equipment. It is best to voluntarily declare at the red channel.
Is an ATA Carnet useful for South Korea and where can I find more information?
Yes, an ATA Carnet is accepted and highly recommended for high-value or professional-use equipment, as it greatly simplifies customs formalities. For more information, consult the official website directly: https://www.customs.go.kr/english/.