Country guide · KIPO
🇰🇷South Korea trademark registration
Active examination process with substantive review. K-brand and K-beauty sectors drive high filing volumes. Local patent attorney required for foreign applicants.
12–15 months
$400
per class, paid to KIPO
First-to-File
Required for foreign applicants
Member
What to know before filing in South Korea
First-to-file priority. South Korea grants trademark rights to the party that files first at the KIPO. Prior unregistered use carries limited or no weight against a later registration. File early.
Examination timeline. Typical end-to-end timing is 12–15 months from filing to registration, assuming no opposition or substantive refusal. Most office actions (formality or substantive) are responded to inside that window.
Local representation. Required for foreign applicants. GTC's South Korea filings are signed by a registered local attorney or agent qualified before the KIPO — that representation is included in our service fee.
Madrid Protocol available. South Korea can also be designated through a single WIPO Madrid international application. For brands filing in 10+ jurisdictions, the Madrid route is typically cheaper than direct national filings.
Ready to file in South Korea?
Talk to a senior attorney about your South Korea filing. We'll scope the application, quote a flat fee, and file as soon as you accept.