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Registering a trademark with the Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO) takes about 12–18 months if there are no oppositions or errors in the application. Complex cases, such as those involving oppositions, may take up to 24 months.
The deadline for filing an opposition is 2 months from the publication of the application in the KIPO Official Bulletin.
In South Korea, you can register word marks, figurative marks, combined marks, three-dimensional marks, sound marks, color marks, and certification marks, provided they are distinctive. Marks contrary to public morality, religious values, or state symbols are prohibited.
The certificate is valid for 10 years from the filing date and can be renewed indefinitely every 10 years.
The owner has the exclusive right to use the mark commercially in South Korea, prohibit others from using similar marks, and transfer or license the trademark rights.
The filing fee is approximately $500–700 for one class of goods or services, including registration and publication fees. Additional costs may include legal services or fees for extra classes.
Use of the trademark is not mandatory, but non-use for 3 consecutive years after registration may lead to cancellation upon third-party request, as per the Trademark Act.
If the trademark is not renewed within 10 years from the filing date, the registration is canceled. Reinstatement is possible within 6 months after the deadline by paying an additional fee.
In today’s interconnected world, a strong brand is one of the most valuable assets a company can have. As businesses expand across borders, brand protection on the international level becomes not just important but essential. South Korea is a technologically advanced and economically dynamic country, offering lucrative opportunities for foreign companies seeking growth in the Asia-Pacific region.
To operate legally and securely in the Korean market, trademark registration is a critical step. It ensures that your brand is protected from misuse and establishes your exclusive rights to the tm logo trademark in a highly competitive environment.
South Korea's economy is innovation-driven, with strong industries in technology, fashion, cosmetics, and entertainment. If you're entering this market, registering your trademark offers several key benefits:
Protection from imitation and unfair competition. A registered trademark helps prevent others from copying or misusing your brand, logo, or slogan. This is especially important in a market where brand recognition carries significant weight.
Exclusive rights to your brand. Trademark owners in Korea are granted legal authority to use the registered mark and take legal action against unauthorized usage.
Increased brand and company value. A registered logo R or a trademark registered logo enhances your company’s credibility, helping to build consumer trust and increasing your brand's market value.
Licensing and franchising opportunities. Only companies with proper trademark registration can legally license or franchise their brand in South Korea.
Legal advantage in disputes. In any legal battle over brand identity, holding a registration mark gives you a distinct upper hand in defending your rights.
Trademark applications in South Korea are managed by the Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO). The country follows a first-to-file system, meaning that the first person to apply for a tm register will typically obtain the rights.
Trademark name search and classification. It is essential to conduct a thorough trademark name search and identify the appropriate goods/services classes before applying.
Trade mark office search. A professional pre-filing trade mark office search can help avoid future conflicts or rejections due to similar or identical marks.
Filing the application. Applicants must submit their details, a clear image of the tm logo, and a description of goods/services to KIPO.
Formal examination. The office checks for completeness and compliance with formal requirements.
Substantive examination. The examiner checks for conflicts with existing trademarks and determines whether the mark is distinctive or considered a restricted trademark.
Publication and opposition period. If the application is approved, it is published in the Official Gazette for a period during which third parties can oppose it.
Registration and issuance of certificate. If no oppositions are raised, or if they are resolved, the tm registration mark is issued and your trademark becomes enforceable.
Application form (in Korean)
Applicant’s information
Clear visual representation of the tm trademark logo
List of designated goods and services
Power of attorney (if applying via a representative)
Government fees
The full process usually takes 6–12 months, depending on the workload at KIPO and whether any objections or oppositions arise.
Once approved, your registered trademark is listed in the Korean national register, making it visible in public records and searchable for enforcement purposes.
Without local expertise, it's easy to run into issues such as filing in the wrong class, choosing a non-distinctive logo, or missing legal nuances. This is why professional assistance can be critical, especially for foreign applicants.
With years of experience in global trademark services, ProfitMark offers reliable, transparent, and end-to-end support for trademark registration in South Korea. We simplify a complex process and ensure you get the protection your brand deserves.
Complete support at every stage. From initial consultation to obtaining your registered trademark certificate.
Trademark uniqueness verification. We conduct a professional trade mark office search to minimize risk of refusal.
Remote document submission. You don’t need to travel or be physically present in South Korea — we handle all paperwork on your behalf.
Legal support in disputes. If your application is challenged or opposed, our legal team will defend your rights and guide you through resolution.
Transparent pricing and clear timelines. You’ll know all costs upfront and receive realistic estimates for completion.
Over 13 years of experience in the field of international trademark registration.
Successful trademark cases in more than 30 countries, including South Korea, China, the U.S., and the EU.
A team of international legal experts specialized in intellectual property.
Professional, personalized approach for businesses of all sizes — from startups to multinational corporations.
Convenient online service — the entire process can be managed digitally.
Quality guarantee — we ensure that every registration is handled with precision and care.
Don't postpone your brand protection. Registering your trademark in South Korea not only secures your intellectual property but also opens the door to strategic business opportunities in one of Asia’s most exciting markets.
With ProfitMark, the process is simple, clear, and 100% reliable. Let us take care of the legal complexities while you focus on growing your brand.
Contact us today — and protect your business for the future.