Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Atlanta

❍ Non-narcotic medicines

When travelling to Korea, you must prove that the medicines you are carrying are for your personal use. Examples of such proof include a prescription, medical certificate or pharmacy label on the packaging. 

The medicines are allowed with a maximum of 6 bottles or three months' supply.

You may also be asked to provide a receipt or other proof that the medicines you are bringing with you were purchased lawfully. You must be able to present this proof when you pass through border control. We recommend that you keep medicines in their original packaging.

For details, please refer to the attached Customs Clearance of Medications and Health Functional Foods guide.

❍ Medicines containing narcotic active substances

Ministry of Food and Drug Safety enacted a provision to approve a person carrying with him/her medicines with controlled substances (narcotic drugs or psychoactive substances) for his/her own treatment when he/she enters into Korea, which has been implemented since Oct. 23, 2009 under the Enforcement rule of the Narcotics Control Act.

To be approved under the provision, any person who will enter into Korea with medicines containing controlled substances should get a permit from the Ministry, regardless of their nationality.

You can apply online starting December 27, 2024. Please refer to the attached file for application methodes, etc.