Goods Across Borders · Customs rule card
Codeine (Medication) → South Korea
Purpose: Traveling · Verified: 2026-07-05
Codeine (Medication) may require documentation or declaration
Details
Codeine in South Korea is a Class III psychotropic medication under the Psychotropic Substances Control Act. Travelers may carry a 30-day personal supply with the original prescription and doctor's letter (Korean translation recommended); quantities above require Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) pre-arrival permit issued via the K-Drug portal.
Quantity limit
Up to 30-day personal supply with valid prescription; narcotic analgesic under MFDS regulations
Documentation required
- Documentation may be required
Leaving with this item
Codeine (opioid analgesic) is a controlled substance subject to personal-export limits when leaving South Korea.
Practical advice
Carry documentation. Declare proactively at customs.
Customs authority
Korea Customs Service (KCS) · https://www.customs.go.kr