Understanding customs duties is essential for smart international shopping. Here's a concise guide to the rules for the most common destination countries when importing from Korea.
United States - De minimis threshold: $800 USD (no duties below this amount per shipment) - Above $800: duties vary by product category and HS code - Korean goods benefit from reduced rates under the KORUS FTA
European Union - De minimis threshold: €150 (VAT applies to all imports regardless) - Above €150: customs duty + 20% VAT - Note: Since 2021, VAT is collected at point of sale for low-value goods
United Kingdom - De minimis threshold: £135 (no customs duty, but VAT applies at 20%) - Above £135: customs duty + 20% VAT
Japan - De minimis threshold: ¥16,666 (approximately $110 USD) - Above threshold: customs duty + 10% consumption tax
Australia - De minimis threshold: AUD $1,000 - Below AUD $1,000: GST (10%) applies since 2018
Southeast Asia - Thresholds and rates vary significantly by country - Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam: generally low thresholds, check before ordering - Philippines: very strict on imports; always declare accurately
Tips to Minimize Customs Issues - Always declare the accurate value and description of items - Never under-declare — penalties can exceed the value of the goods - Split shipments do not reliably reduce customs liability - Keep your purchase receipts in case customs requests proof of value - Consider purchasing shipping insurance for high-value items