No. Stun guns are classified as “violent weapons” under South Korea’s Act on the Control of Firearms, Swords, Explosives, and Other Articles (2020 amended), prohibiting civilian possession without special authorization. The Korea Customs Service (KCS) and National Police Agency (NPA) enforce strict import bans, with violations punishable by up to 3 years imprisonment or fines up to ₩30 million. Recent 2026 compliance directives emphasize electronic surveillance of e-commerce platforms to curb illegal sales.
Key Regulations for Stun Guns in South Korea
- Prohibition Status: Civilians may not legally acquire, possess, or carry stun guns, including imported or domestically manufactured units.
- Law Enforcement Exceptions: Only authorized security personnel, military, or government agencies may use stun guns under Article 4 of the Act.
- Penalties for Violation: Unauthorized possession triggers criminal liability under Article 14 of the Act, with mandatory reporting to the NPA’s Violent Crime Division.
The Korea Agency of Technology and Standards (KATS) further restricts electronic incapacitation devices under KS C 9835, classifying them as “dangerous electrical equipment” requiring certification for industrial use only. Travelers carrying stun guns face confiscation at Incheon International Airport, where KCS employs X-ray scanners and ion mobility spectrometry for detection.