Yes, blank firing guns are legal in South Korea under strict conditions, primarily for training, ceremonial, or theatrical use. The Ministry of National Defense and the National Police Agency regulate their possession, requiring permits for ownership, storage, and use. Recent 2026 amendments to the Act on the Control of Firearms, Swords, and Explosives tighten oversight, mandating biometric verification for license holders and mandatory inspections every two years. Unauthorized use or carrying in public spaces remains criminally punishable under the Criminal Act and Special Act on the Prevention of Violent Crimes.
Key Regulations for Blank Firing Guns in South Korea
- Permit Requirement: Ownership mandates a permit from the local police station under the Act on the Control of Firearms, Swords, and Explosives, with applicants undergoing background checks and firearms safety training. Permits are non-transferable and tied to specific models.
- Use Restrictions: Blank firing guns may only be used in designated shooting ranges, licensed theaters, or approved training facilities. Transport between locations requires prior notification to authorities and secure storage in locked containers.
- 2026 Compliance Shifts: The National Police Agency’s 2026 directive introduces real-time digital tracking of blank firing gun transactions via a centralized database. License holders must report usage logs quarterly, and violations trigger immediate revocation.