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Is there any problem with customs when bringing fresh fruits purchased abroad into Korea? Released

2025-09-30 10:12
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In principle, if the total price of goods purchased and brought in from abroad for personal consumption by the traveler is less than USD 800, duty-free clearance is possible.
However, if items subject to plant quarantine, such as fruits, are included, they must pass plant quarantine regardless of the duty-free range to be cleared.
 
Therefore, quarantine procedures are required depending on the type and condition of the fresh fruits you purchased, and the clearance may be determined based on the quarantine results.
 
For smooth clearance, it is advisable to pay attention to the following points.
 
Customs declaration: When submitting the customs declaration form upon entry, be sure to declare the purchase of fresh fruits.
Plant quarantine: After entering, present the fresh fruits to the plant quarantine officer and undergo quarantine. If no issues such as pest detection arise during the quarantine process, clearance will be allowed.
Non-commercial personal consumption: If the quantity of fresh fruits brought in is deemed sufficient for commercial sale, it may not be recognized as traveler’s personal belongings and may require import clearance procedures.
It is important to bring in an appropriate amount for personal consumption.
If you have further questions about the possibility of bringing in specific fruits or the quarantine procedures, it is most accurate to inquire with customs or plant quarantine-related agencies before departure or upon entry.
 
Practically, you should consider whether fresh fruits for personal consumption are worth the wait during quarantine.
The quarantine process takes time and incurs costs. 
This may result in greater time and cost compared to purchasing domestically distributed goods from importers selling the same items.
 
Therefore, please note that items subject to plant quarantine, such as fresh fruits, are difficult to clear immediately, and it is recommended to avoid bringing them from the local area if possible.
 


[This content regarding export and import clearance regulations and their interpretations is based on the customs and trade laws of the Republic of Korea.]

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Thank you!

JJ Goh
Representative Customs Broker
NPU Customs Consulting
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