No, butterfly knives (balisongs) are prohibited in South Korea under the Act on the Control of Firearms, Swords, and Explosives (화기·도검류 등 단속에 관한 법률). The Ministry of National Defense (국방부) classifies them as “dangerous tools” (위험물) akin to switchblades, barring civilian possession, sale, or import without special permits—rarely granted. Recent 2026 amendments tighten enforcement, mandating police inspections of online marketplaces for illegal listings.
Key Regulations for Butterfly Knives (Balisongs) in South Korea
- Prohibition Status: Balisongs are explicitly listed in the Enforcement Decree of the Act on the Control of Firearms, Swords, and Explosives (제4조) as “prohibited tools” (금지대상물품), criminalizing their manufacture, import, or distribution.
- Penalties: Violations incur up to 5 years imprisonment or fines up to ₩50 million (Article 23-2), with confiscation of assets under the Proceeds of Crime Act (범죄수익은닉방지법).
- Exceptions: Only licensed collectors (수집가) or martial arts practitioners (e.g., Haidong Gumdo) may possess balisongs with prior approval from the National Police Agency (경찰청), subject to rigorous background checks and storage compliance.