A flagged advertisement is not a verdict on every imported device
Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) said on November 4, 2026 that it found 156 online posts or advertisements violating medical-device rules during an October 19–23 check. The figure is not a count of distinct products or sellers, and it does not mean every overseas purchase is unlawful.
What the 156 cases represent
According to the MFDS release, 151 were unlawful overseas purchasing-agency advertisements and five breached advertising-review rules. The release's separate device-by-device figures do not add up to 151, so this article does not present them as a breakdown of that subtotal. MFDS says it requested access blocking by the relevant bodies and platforms and plans local-government inspections. A request or plan should not be reported as completed blocking or penalties.
How to check an advertised device
Record the exact model, product name, seller and importer shown in the listing. Then use the official Medical Device Information service and its easy medical-device search (information search), as directed by MFDS, to compare Korean authorization, certification or notification records. A similar name is not proof that two models are identical; an unclear search result is not a legal determination. Ask the seller or MFDS for clarification before relying on the ad.
MFDS specifically warns about ads seeking a buyer's personal customs-clearance number while selling devices without Korean authorization. This article does not determine whether any particular listing or device is lawful.
About the Author
The Life Mokcha editorial team reviews official announcements and primary sources to explain practical information. Check the linked original sources for applicable terms and later updates.
