Purple Ocean International Co., Ltd. is a specialized hazardous chemical import agency, safely handling the entire import process — from advance review through import declaration, customs clearance, and post-management — in compliance with the Chemicals Control Act and the Act on Registration and Evaluation of Chemical Substances (K-REACH).
Hazardous chemical import is a highly complex field — far beyond simple customs clearance. It requires substance classification → import feasibility determination → declaration and registration → engagement with regulatory authorities. Drawing on over 30 years of trade and logistics expertise, we proactively eliminate the risks of customs clearance holds, administrative fines, and criminal liability.
In particular, we specialize in hazardous chemical import agency tailored for industrial raw materials, research reagents, process chemicals, additives, solvents, and other needs of companies, research institutions, and large conglomerates.
Advance determination of whether substances qualify as hazardous chemicals
Review of K-REACH registration and declaration requirements
Import declaration under the Chemicals Control Act and engagement with the Ministry of Environment
MSDS (GHS) review, translation, and compliance verification
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1Are all hazardous chemicals impossible to import?
No. Even hazardous chemicals can be legally imported if the required declaration, permit, and registration conditions are met. The problem is that proceeding without advance review can result in customs clearance holds or administrative penalties.
Q2What is the most important advance procedure for importing chemicals?
Determining whether the substance falls under K-REACH and whether the Chemicals Control Act applies is the most critical step. Import feasibility is determined at the substance classification stage.
Q3Can import proceed immediately if an MSDS is available?
No. The MSDS must be reviewed for compliance with Korea's GHS standards and translated into Korean. If the actual substance ingredients do not match, import may be restricted.
Q4Are regulations also applied to research-purpose or small-volume chemicals?
Yes. Even research or testing-purpose chemicals may fall under the Chemicals Control Act. However, the possibility of relaxed requirements or exceptions can be determined through advance review.
Q5Why is it necessary to entrust hazardous chemical import to specialists?
Hazardous chemicals carry risks of administrative fines, criminal penalties, and import bans. Using a specialist import agency to secure regulatory compliance, institutional communication, and customs clearance stability is essential.
Classification
Hazardous Chemicals under the Chemicals Control Act
Toxic Substances
Substances that are toxic or harmful to humans
Restricted Substances
Substances subject to enhanced handling standards
Prohibited Substances
Substances whose use is prohibited
Accident-Preparedness Substances
Substances that may cause accidents if released and require preparedness measures (e.g., chlorine, ammonia, sulfuric acid)
Permitted Substances
Substances that can only be handled after obtaining a permit for specific designated uses
Everyday Examples
Hazardous Chemicals in Everyday Life
Paints and adhesives
Toluene, 1,4-dioxane, formaldehyde, etc.
Moth repellents
Naphthalene, 1,4-dichlorobenzene
Insecticides
Cypermethrin, permethrin, etc.
Cleaning agents and disinfectants
Hydrogen peroxide, chlorine-based substances
Industrial Applications
Hazardous Chemicals in Industrial Settings
Organic chemicals
Benzene, glutaraldehyde, nitrobenzene
Metals
Mercury, nickel and its compounds, antimony and its compounds