Tax & Regulation February 10, 2026 · 40 min read

E-Commerce & Consumer Protection Law: Legal Guide for Canadian Companies

Key Takeaway

South Korea's e-commerce regulatory framework is among the most rigorous globally, and Canadian companies selling to Korean consumers online are subject to full compliance obligations regardless of physical presence. The December 2025 amendments to the E-Commerce Act significantly expand accountability requirements for foreign sellers, including mandatory Korea-based representation.

Implications

Canadian businesses targeting Korean online consumers must proactively address registration, localization, and representative requirements before market entry. The December 30, 2025 amendments introduce stricter foreign seller accountability measures—including a mandatory Korea-based representative—that materially increase the compliance burden and cost of market entry. Companies should assess whether establishing a Korean corporation or registered branch is operationally viable, and engage local legal counsel early to navigate multi-layered obligations spanning the E-Commerce Act, PIPA, and telecommunications regulations. Non-compliance risks enforcement action by the KFTC, reputational exposure, and loss of market access.

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