No. Carrying a sword in public is illegal in South Korea under the Act on the Control of Knives and Other Edged Tools (2023 revision), with exceptions for ceremonial or professional use. Violations risk fines up to ₩3 million or imprisonment. The 2026 enforcement guidelines by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety tighten inspections near cultural sites.
Key Regulations for Carrying a Sword in Public in South Korea
- Prohibition on Public Carriage: The Act on the Control of Knives and Other Edged Tools (2023) bans carrying swords in public without a valid permit, classifying them as “dangerous edged tools” under Article 2(1)3.
- Permit Requirements: Only individuals with a “professional use” justification (e.g., martial arts instructors, historical reenactors) may apply for a permit via the local police station, subject to background checks and storage inspections.
- Cultural Heritage Exemptions: Swords used in traditional ceremonies (e.g., taekwondo demonstrations) require prior approval from the Cultural Heritage Administration, with strict documentation of event details and transport protocols.
Local police enforce these rules under the National Police Agency’s 2026 Operational Guidelines, which mandate random checks in high-traffic areas like Insadong and Gyeongbokgung Palace. Non-compliance triggers immediate confiscation and potential criminal charges under the Special Act on the Prevention of Violent Crimes.