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South Korea SAR Standard KS C 3350 Update: Key Compliance Changes

  • 2 days ago
  • 2 min read

South Korea SAR Standard KS C 3350 Update

South Korea has introduced important revisions to its RF exposure compliance framework through the updated KS C 3350, impacting how wireless devices are tested and certified for market access.

The update reflects a broader effort by the National Radio Research Agency (RRA) to align national standards with global practices while strengthening consumer safety requirements.


Overview of the Update


The revised KS C 3350 standard defines new requirements for:


  • Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) testing

  • RF exposure limits and evaluation

  • Test configurations for modern wireless technologies


These changes are particularly relevant for devices operating with multi-band, LTE, and 5G technologies.


Key Changes Introduced


1. Alignment with International Standards


The updated framework aligns more closely with methodologies from the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), improving global consistency in SAR testing.


2. Enhanced Testing Methodologies


  • Updated phantom models (head and body simulators)

  • Stricter device positioning requirements

  • Inclusion of simultaneous transmission scenarios

This ensures more accurate real-world RF exposure evaluation.


3. Expanded Device Coverage


The update broadens the scope to include:

  • 5G-enabled smartphones

  • Wearables (smartwatches, AR/VR devices)

  • IoT devices used close to the body


4. Stricter Documentation Requirements


Manufacturers must now provide:

  • Detailed SAR test reports

  • Worst-case exposure scenarios

  • Antenna configuration analysis

  • Simultaneous transmission data


5. Clarification of SAR Limits


While limits remain aligned with international benchmarks, the update clarifies:

  • Averaging methods

  • Measurement uncertainty handling


Illustration of South Korea SAR Standard KS C 3350 update showing RF exposure testing on a device with a head phantom, 5G smartphone, wearable devices, SAR report, and Seoul skyline in the background

South Korea SAR Standard KS C 3350 Update – Compliance Impact


The South Korea SAR Standard KS C 3350 update significantly increases the complexity of compliance for manufacturers targeting the Korean market.


What This Means for Manufacturers


  • Higher testing complexity: Especially for 5G and multi-antenna devices

  • Increased costs: Due to additional SAR scenarios and reporting

  • Longer timelines: Certification reviews may take more time

  • Re-testing risks: Existing products may require reassessment if modified


Certification Impact Summary


Area

Impact

Testing

More complex (5G, simultaneous transmission)

Certification

Stricter review by RRA

Cost

Increased due to expanded scope

Timeline

Longer approval cycles

Documentation

More detailed and technical


Timeline + Required Actions


Expected Timeline


  • Publication: 2025–2026

  • Transition Period: ~6–12 months

  • Full Enforcement: Within 1 year of publication


Required Actions


  1. Assess product portfolio

    Identify devices impacted by new SAR scope


  2. Update testing strategy

    Ensure compliance with latest KS C 3350 methods


  3. Work with certified labs

    Preferably those experienced with Korean requirements


  4. Prepare documentation early

    Include all required SAR scenarios and reports


  5. Plan certification timelines

    Account for possible delays and re-testing


Official Source


For full regulatory details, refer to the official website of the National Radio Research Agency (RRA):https://www.rra.go.kr

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