Title
European Union - Republic of Korea Free Trade Agreement
Dates of the instrument
Signature: 06 October 2010
Entry into force*: 01 July 2011
Summary
The EU-South Korea Free Trade Agreement is a comprehensive trade agreement that has eliminated customs duties on nearly all products (98.7%) and removed non-tariff barriers since 2011. The agreement streamlines cross-border procedures through various paperless trade provisions, including:
- Electronic pre-submission and processing of customs information prior to shipment arrival
- Harmonization of documentation and data requirements across both parties
- Enhanced shipping container security measures and tracking
- Recognition and implementation of electronic signatures
- Electronic information transfer protocols for trade documentation
- Automated customs risk management systems
- Integration with single window systems where applicable
- Digital processing of certificates of origin
The agreement, which entered into force on July 1, 2011, has significantly facilitated trade between the EU and South Korea by modernizing customs procedures and embracing digital solutions for trade documentation and processing.
Relevant document(s)
Geographical coverage
European Union; Republic of Korea
Legal nature
Bilateral Trade Agreements
Trade processes
Commercial Processes
Transport Processes
Border and Regulatory Processes
Financial Processes
Trade documents
Export/Import License for agricultural products (EIL)
Non-preferential Certificate of Origin (CoO)
Preferential Certificate of Origin (PCoO)
Customs Declaration (CD)
Phytosanitary certificate (ePhyto)
International Veterinary Certificates (WOAH)
Advance Ruling Application (ARA)
Letter of Credit (LC)
Contact point
Korea Customs Service
kcsenquiry@customs.go.kr
* For a model law – entry into force of the law enacting a model law; for a treaty–entry into force
Last Update: 4 December 2025