Codeine (Medication) → South Korea

Codeine (Medication) may require documentation or declaration

Details

Codeine in South Korea is a Class III psychotropic medication under the Psychotropic Substances Control Act. Travelers may carry a 30-day personal supply with the original prescription and doctor's letter (Korean translation recommended); quantities above require Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) pre-arrival permit issued via the K-Drug portal. Enforcement in South Korea carries fines from KRW 200,000 to KRW 10,000,000 under Customs Act Art. 269, Art. 270 (ordinary personal cases are handled as civil infringements). Leaving South Korea with codeine (medication) is a separate question — restricted: Codeine (opioid analgesic) is a controlled substance subject to personal-export limits when leaving South Korea.

Quantity limit

Up to 30-day personal supply with valid prescription; narcotic analgesic under MFDS regulations

Documentation required

• Documentation may be required

Leaving with this item

Codeine (opioid analgesic) is a controlled substance subject to personal-export limits when leaving South Korea.

Practical advice

Carry documentation. Declare proactively at customs.

Customs authority

Korea Customs Service (KCS) · https://www.customs.go.kr