No.
THCA remains illegal in South Korea under the Narcotics Control Act, which classifies all tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) derivatives—including THCA—as controlled substances. The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) enforces strict penalties, including imprisonment and fines, for possession or distribution. While hemp-derived CBD with <0.2% THC is permitted, THCA’s conversion to THC upon heating triggers narcotics violations. Recent 2026 legislative proposals aim to refine cannabis regulations but maintain THCA’s prohibition.
Key Regulations for THCA in South Korea
- Narcotics Control Act (1976, amended 2024): Classifies THCA as a Schedule I narcotic, prohibiting possession, sale, or import without MFDS approval.
- MFDS Enforcement Notice (2023): Specifies that any THC-containing compound, including THCA, is subject to drug control measures, regardless of origin.
- Customs Border Control (2025): Mandates THC/THCA testing for all cannabis-related imports; seizures and prosecutions occur even for trace amounts.