Complete Guide to Personal Customs Unique Code: Essential Information for Overseas Direct Purchases in 2025

What Is an Individual Customs Clearance Identification Number? A Must-Have for Overseas Direct Purchases

Are you enjoying overseas direct shopping but feeling confused by the term ‘Individual Customs Clearance Identification Number’? Let’s dive into the secret behind this number that solves both personal data protection and streamlined customs procedures at once.

Definition and Legal Basis of the Individual Customs Clearance Identification Number

The Individual Customs Clearance Identification Number is a unique 13-digit number issued by the Korea Customs Service, formatted as P + 12 digits. For example, it looks like P123456789012 and is essential for customs declarations when importing goods purchased from overseas into Korea.

According to Article 7 of the Customs Act, anyone importing goods worth over $150 per day from foreign shopping sites must declare them using their Individual Customs Clearance Identification Number. Previously, residents’ registration numbers were used for customs processing, but starting October 2019, this system was replaced to strengthen personal data protection. This revolutionary change significantly reduces the risk of personal information leaks while still verifying the user’s real identity.

Why Is the Individual Customs Clearance Identification Number Absolutely Necessary?

The need for this number goes beyond legal obligation—it actually resolves multiple inconveniences faced by overseas direct shoppers.

Personal Data Protection: You no longer need to provide your resident registration number to foreign shopping sites or delivery companies. Using the Individual Customs Clearance Identification Number greatly reduces the risk of sensitive personal information being leaked.

Customs Efficiency: One number manages all your order-related customs information, allowing quick status checks and easier issue resolution. It also minimizes the chance of having to resubmit declarations due to errors.

Simple Payments: Customs duty payments can be linked with convenient services like KakaoPay, Naver Pay, and Toss, sparing you the hassle of credit card payments.

Why Register the Number Even for Small-Value Items?

Currently, goods valued below $150 per day can pass customs without registering the Individual Customs Clearance Identification Number. However, as of 2025, the Korea Customs Service recommends registering this number for all overseas purchases.

Why? First, registered numbers speed up customs processing even for small items. Second, it prepares you for any future policy changes. Third, it creates consistent tracking records across multiple small orders, which can serve as crucial evidence if disputes or problems arise.

Comparing the Individual Customs Clearance Number with the Previous Method

Aspect	Resident Registration Number Method	Individual Customs Clearance Number Method
Personal Data Security	High risk of data leaks	Real-name verification with data protection
Customs Management	Difficult to resubmit if errors occur	One number manages all orders
Payment Convenience	Only credit card payment available	Compatible with easy payment services
Implementation Period	Until October 2019	October 2019 to present
Personal Data Exposure	Resident registration number shared with foreign shops	Only the Individual Customs Clearance Number shared

What You Can Do with the Individual Customs Clearance Number

Once issued, you can take advantage of:

Real-Time Customs Tracking: Check the progress of your shipment anytime via the UNI-PASS app.
Barcode Generation: Save your number as a barcode and complete customs declaration by scanning a QR code when the delivery arrives.
Push Notifications: Receive instant alerts at every customs processing step to stay updated.
Multi-Order Management: Consolidate and manage purchases from multiple overseas shops using a single number.

Important Warning: Proper Use of the Individual Customs Clearance Number

This number is valid only for the individual to whom it is issued—using someone else’s number is prohibited. Unauthorized use or borrowing of another person’s number can result in a fine up to 3 million won under the Customs Act. Also, be wary of scams offering to “rent” or “handle customs” for a fee—these are fraudulent schemes and should be avoided.

The Individual Customs Clearance Identification Number is both a legal necessity and a frontline defense for your personal information when shopping overseas. Don’t let this once unfamiliar term intimidate you—embrace it as a smart tool for smarter shopping!

📲 Ultimate Tips to Get Your Personal Customs Clearance Code in Just 5 Minutes

Only 5 minutes! Easily and quickly obtain your unique customs clearance code through the official UNI-PASS website and mobile app, and make your parcel deliveries smoother with these practical hacks. Now, let us reveal the secret.

✅ Super Simple Process to Get Your Personal Customs Clearance Code via UNI-PASS

If you’re shopping internationally, the Personal Customs Clearance Code is a must-have. Worried that the process is complicated? Worry no more. Using the Korea Customs Service’s integrated UNI-PASS system is truly straightforward.

The issuance process involves just 3 steps:

Access: Visit the Korea Customs UNI-PASS website or download the UNI-PASS mobile app.
Sign Up:
- Select "Individual Member," then verify your identity with your resident registration number and mobile phone.
- Enter your address very carefully during this step. (More details below)
- Once you enter the basic information, registration is complete.
Generate Your Code:
- After signing up, click the "Apply for Personal Customs Clearance Code" button on the main page.
- Your unique 13-digit code (starting with P) will be instantly issued and can be checked immediately via the app or website.

Simple, right? From registration to code issuance, it should only take about 5 minutes on average.

📱 Hidden Features of the UNI-PASS Mobile App

Installing the app unlocks conveniences far beyond just issuing your code. Let’s explore some special features exclusive to the mobile app that many users don’t know about.

Barcode Generation – Your secret weapon when the delivery person arrives:

Automatically converts your personal customs code into a barcode format.
When the courier arrives, just let them scan this QR code to complete customs declaration instantly.
No need to memorize or jot down complex codes anymore.

Real-Time Notifications:

When your item departs from overseas,
Arrives at a Korean airport,
Is under customs inspection,
Is being prepared for shipping,
Or is out for delivery,

You’ll receive push notifications at every step, so you always know the status of your parcel.

⚠️ Important Reminder: Never share or lend your personal customs clearance code to others. Using someone else’s code can lead to fines up to 3 million KRW under the Customs Act.

🎯 Essential Checkpoints After Issuance

Getting your personal customs code is just the beginning. Make sure to verify the following:

Record your issued number:

Save your 13-digit code in a note app or cloud storage.
You’ll need it for overseas online payments, so keeping it handy is key.

Save the barcode image:

Store the barcode image generated by the UNI-PASS app in your phone’s gallery.
It’s convenient for printing or showing to your delivery person on the screen.

Confirm your delivery address:

Double-check that the address entered during issuance is accurate and current.
Avoid unnecessary customs delay caused by incorrect addresses.

💡 Smart Ways to Use Your Personal Customs Code When Shopping Abroad

Make sure you use your personal customs code properly to fully enjoy its benefits.

Must input before overseas purchases:

Always enter your personal customs clearance code in the shipping info fields on major international shopping sites like Amazon, eBay, and Shein.
Displaying it alongside your Korean address accelerates customs processing remarkably.

Save once, use continuously:

If you shop often on various international sites, bookmark or save your personal code.
No need to type it every single time—simply auto-fill!

Regular address verification:

Quarterly, check the validity of your registered address via the Korean Address Information website.
Especially if you live in a new apartment or redevelopment zone, confirm that your address is correctly registered in the system.

🚀 Latest 2025 Updates: Personal Customs Clearance Code System Changes

The Korea Customs Service continually enhances the personal customs clearance system. Knowing the latest changes helps you use it more effectively.

Expansion of AI-based automatic customs clearance:

Starting 2025, items valued under $50 can be declared without the unique code — up to 30 times annually.
However, most overseas purchases exceed $50, so your personal customs code remains essential.

Automatic integration with global platforms:

Major international retailers like Amazon and eBay now automatically generate the customs code input field when shipping to Korea.
This makes the issuance and input process even more seamless.

Now you’re ready to get your personal customs clearance code in under 5 minutes and shop internationally like a pro. Download the UNI-PASS app today and step into a smarter world of global shopping! 🌍✈️📦

🏠 Customs Clearance Delayed Due to Address Errors? Solve It with a 'Address Existence Status Check'!

Moved into a newly built apartment recently and placed an overseas order, only to have your package stuck in customs for two weeks? Received your personal customs clearance code with the new address in a redevelopment zone but got a warning saying "Clearance not possible for this address"? Most of these frustrating issues stem from address entry errors.

The most common overlooked mistake when issuing a personal customs clearance code is address information. Because of the time lag between updates to administrative systems and the post office database, new buildings may take up to 3 months to be recorded. Especially in the case of newly built apartments, planned sale areas, or rebuilt buildings, addresses may not be registered at all, making customs clearance impossible.

🔍 Why Is Checking the Address Existence Status Essential?

The Post Office’s ePost data is the core reference for the customs clearance system. If your address is marked as "discontinued address" or not registered in this system, no matter how accurate your personal customs clearance code is, it can be rejected for "incomplete clearance documents". In these cases, your goods may be returned or left in storage for over two weeks.

✅ The 3-Step Procedure to Check Address Existence Status

Step 1: Visit the Address Information Website

Go to the Ministry of the Interior and Safety’s Address Information System (juso.go.kr). This is the official platform managing all addresses in Korea.

Step 2: Search for the Exact Address

Simply searching “new apartment in Asan city” won’t do. You must enter the exact road name address + building number, for example:

“29-3 Onjugal 16beon-gil, Eupnae-dong, Asan-si, Chungcheongnam-do”

For apartments, the unit number is also critical. If it’s basement 3, unit 306, enter it precisely as "B3 306". This detailed info must match the customs system for your goods to be delivered smoothly.

Step 3: Check Status and Take Action

Once you get results, verify the address status carefully:

Marked as "Existing Address" → The address is valid and can be used to issue your personal customs clearance code without issues.
Marked as "Discontinued Address" → This address is invalid. You must visit the local district office’s land registry or civil affairs office to request address correction or registration.

🚨 Real Case: The Address Registration Issue in a Newly Built Building

In late 2024, 32 residents moving into a newly built apartment on Nambu-ro, Asan city, encountered this exact problem. Though they correctly entered their addresses when issuing personal customs clearance codes, a "address not found" warning appeared during customs clearance of their overseas orders. The cause? The new building wasn’t yet registered in the Address Information System. They had to personally visit the district office to complete address registration before the customs process could proceed.

💡 Smart Address Verification Checklist

Before issuing your personal customs clearance code, make sure to:

Pre-Issuance Checks:

Is your current residence registered as an "Existing Address" on the Address Information System?
Are the road name and building number entered precisely?
For apartments, have you included the unit number in detail?

Post-Issuance Tips:

If you move, you need to update your personal customs clearance code address as well. This can be easily done through the UNI-PASS app.
Get in the habit of rechecking your address status on the Address Information System quarterly.
If you moved into a newly built building, wait at least 3 months before applying for a personal customs clearance code.

By following these 3 steps in advance, you can completely avoid the frustration of “customs clearance delays.” Don’t be stuck at the final hurdle of overseas shopping. Accurate address verification is the key to swift customs clearance!

❌ 4. Avoiding Customs Clearance Failures and Fines: Personal Customs Clearance Code Errors and Proper Solutions

From using someone else’s code to not installing the app, simple mistakes can ruin your customs clearance and lead to fines. This section reveals how to perfectly prevent clearance failures with specific solutions for each issue and a must-have expert checklist.

📌 Top 5 Common Personal Customs Clearance Code Errors and How to Fix Them

We’ve categorized the most frequent errors encountered during customs clearance and summarized how to resolve each one.

Error Type	Cause	Symptom	Solution	Fine Applicable?
Address Mismatch	Mixing road name & old address	Warning message: "Clearance not possible with this address"	Recheck and correct exact road name address on official address info website	✓ No (only delays)
Personal Customs Code Not Provided	Omitted in payment field	Customs broker requests extra documents after delivery	Immediately send your personal customs code to seller and shipping company	✓ No (causes 3-5 days delay)
Using Another Person’s Code	Fraudulent or dishonest use	Clearance denied and investigation initiated	Immediately issue a new personal customs clearance code under your own name and notify authorities	✓ Yes (up to 3 million KRW fine)
Newly Built Building Address	Not registered in Ministry of Interior and Safety	“Address search unavailable” error	Visit local district office to request address registration (3-7 days processing)	✓ No (only clearance failure)
App Not Installed	Only using website	Real-time clearance updates unavailable	Install the UNI-PASS mobile app and enable notifications	✓ No (causes info gaps)

🚨 The Most Dangerous Error: Using Someone Else’s Personal Customs Clearance Code

Renting or using another person’s personal customs code is not just a convenience issue — it is a violation of customs law punishable by law. Do NOT forget this.

Why Is This a Problem?

Legal Basis: Customs Act Articles 7 and 282 (penalties for violations)
Penalties:
- Fine: up to 3 million KRW
- Repeat offenses may lead to criminal charges
- Credit downgrade and red-flagging on future customs clearance

Real-World Case Study

November 2024 Incident: A direct buyer living in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, was caught trying to import three luxury bags using a friend’s personal customs code. The Customs Service imposed a 3 million KRW fine for “illegal customs attempt,” and the code owner was investigated for unauthorized cooperation.

Safe Practices

✅ Use only your own personal customs clearance code
✅ For group purchases, each person submits their own unique code
✅ When using proxy purchase services, the final recipient must provide their own code

🏠 How to Perfectly Prevent Customs Delays Due to Address Errors

A wrong address entered when issuing your personal customs clearance code can delay customs clearance by up to two weeks or more.

The Real Cause Behind New Building or Redevelopment Area Address Issues

The crux of the problem: The new address is not yet registered in the Postal ePost delivery system.

Newly built buildings: Reflected in system up to 3 months after completion
Redevelopment areas: New road names registered after 2-4 weeks delay
Pre-sale properties: Not registered in system until move-in

3-Step Checklist: Confirm Current Address Status

Step 1: Visit the Official Address Website

URL: www.juso.go.kr
Enter your full road name address in the search box
Example: “16beon-gil Onju, Eumnae-dong, Asan-si, Chungcheongnam-do, Basement 3, Room 306”

Step 2: Check Status Display

✓ “Existing Address” → Fully usable, proceed with issuance
✗ “Obsolete Address” → Address change required (visit district office)
? “Address Not Found” → Newly built building; proceed to Step 3

Step 3: For New Buildings, Confirm with District Office

Visit the urban planning or public service department of your district
Ask: "Is this building’s road name address registered?"
If not registered, submit registration request (takes 3-7 days)

💻 Bridging the Information Gap by Installing the App

If you do not install the UNI-PASS mobile app after issuing your personal customs clearance code, all customs process information will be blocked.

What You Miss Without the App

Information Category	Website	Mobile App
Real-time clearance status	✗ Manual checks only	✓ Automatic push notifications
Barcode generation & storage	✗ Must enter number repeatedly	✓ One-time QR code scan
Offline access	✗ Impossible	✓ View saved info without internet
Real-time courier integration	✗ None	✓ Automatic updates by delivery step

3 Essential Settings

1. Install & Log In to the App

iOS: Search “UNI-PASS” in App Store
Android: Search “UNI-PASS” in Google Play
Sign up and your personal customs code will sync automatically

2. Enable Notifications

Open app → Settings → Enable “Notification Permissions”
Receive automatic updates roughly every 3 hours as clearance progresses

3. Save Your Barcode

On main screen, tap “Personal Customs Clearance Code”
Select “Save Barcode” → saves image to your phone’s gallery
Show this barcode to courier at delivery for seamless customs reporting

🌟 Expert Checklist: 100% Prevent Customs Failure

Here is a comprehensive list of steps you should check at every stage of your overseas purchase. Print this out or save a screenshot for easy reference.

📋 Before Purchase (One week prior)

[ ] Confirm issuance of personal customs clearance code (issue immediately if missing)
[ ] Re-verify your address’s “existing” status on addressinfo website
[ ] If living in a new building, confirm registration with district office
[ ] Install UNI-PASS app and activate notifications

✏️ At Payment Stage (Just before purchase)

[ ] Accurately input personal customs clearance code (13 characters starting with ‘P’) in payment field
[ ] Verify recipient address is correct road name address (no old addresses)
[ ] Check for “no address change allowed” option and handle changes beforehand

📦 During Shipping (3-5 days after order)

[ ] Check UNI-PASS app for “clearance in progress” status
[ ] Watch for calls from courier requesting extra documents
[ ] Monitor clearance stages from “Customs Inspection” to “Release”

🏠 At Delivery

[ ] Prepare barcode image in UNI-PASS app before courier arrives
[ ] After identity confirmation, complete final customs reporting by barcode scan
[ ] Inspect goods and sign for delivery

⚠️ Warnings: 3 Dangerous Behaviors to Avoid

1. Never Use “Personal Customs Code Rental” Services

Promotional Claims:

“Troubled by complex clearance? We’ll handle it for only 5,000 KRW fee!”

Why Absolutely Not?

Renting codes violates customs law
Penalties: Fee + up to 3 million KRW fine + criminal charges
Lenders also face punishment

2. Avoid Entering Personal Info on Phishing Sites

Signs of Phishing Sites:

Exaggerated ads like “Get Personal Customs Code in 2 minutes!”
Unauthorized use of Customs Service logos
Requests for payment and resident registration numbers

How to Access Safely:

✓ Use official URL only: www.unipass.customs.go.kr
✓ Use official app: “UNI-PASS” available on iOS/Android stores
✓ When in doubt, call Customs Call Center at 1566-0800

3. Do Not Change Address Arbitrarily

Never Do:

Attempt address changes during customs (grounds for denial)
Change shipping to another person’s address then back (fraud suspicion)

Proper Handling:

For shipped goods, apply for mail return and resend (takes 2 weeks)
For future purchases, confirm address in advance

💬 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. I lost my personal customs code. Can I get it reissued?

A. Don’t worry. Once issued, your personal customs clearance code is valid for life. You can always check it on the UNI-PASS app or website. If you have login issues, call the Customs Call Center at 1566-0800.

Q2. Can I have multiple personal customs clearance codes?

A. No. Only one code is issued per person. If by mistake you get multiple codes, report to Customs to consolidate into one.

Q3. Should every family member get their own code?

A. Yes. Every individual who shops overseas must have a separate personal customs code. Do not use others’ codes.

Q4. Who to contact if there’s a customs delay?

Customs Call Center: 1566-0800 (available 24/7)
Real-time chat on UNI-PASS app
Direct office at airport/port customs

Your personal customs clearance code is the essential pass for overseas shopping. But a single careless mistake can cost you fines and delays. Be sure to review this section’s checklist before every purchase. For a safe and smart shopping experience abroad, start now by installing the UNI-PASS app and verifying your address! 📱✅

🔮 The Future of Overseas Shopping Revolutionized by Personal Customs Clearance Codes in 2025

From AI automation and blockchain transparency to integration with global marketplaces! Let’s explore how personal customs clearance codes are shaping a smarter overseas direct purchase experience amid evolving customs environments. The year 2025 will mark not just a change in how goods are imported but a pivotal shift toward a fully digitalized direct shopping journey.

🤖 Expansion of AI-Based Automated Customs Clearance Systems

The biggest transformation in the personal customs clearance code system is the expansion of AI-based automated customs clearance. Starting in 2025, items valued under $50 can be declared without requiring a personal customs clearance code. However, because there is an annual limit of 30 transactions, those who frequently shop overseas still must register for a personal customs code.

At the heart of this change is the Customs Service’s commitment to delivering “minimum paperwork delays, maximum convenience.” While previously every item underwent customs inspection, AI now smartly assesses risk and selectively prioritizes. Having a personal customs clearance code allows for faster and more accurate declarations, so frequent overseas shoppers would be wise to obtain their code in advance.

⛓️ Enhancing Transparency with Blockchain Technology

Another groundbreaking innovation starting in 2025 is the blockchain-based storage of personal customs clearance records—a truly meaningful advancement for users.

With blockchain technology:

Customs records become tamper-proof, enabling clear evidence in case of disputes
Transparent tracking of customs progress: every stage of the customs process for goods declared under your personal code is sequentially time-stamped
Strengthened international customs cooperation with secure data sharing across countries

For users, this increased transparency means they can definitively track responsibility in cases of customs delays or package loss. You will be able to check in real-time, via objective records, exactly where and why your package got held up.

🌐 The Era of Automatic Integration with Global Marketplaces

Perhaps the most revolutionary shift in 2025 will be that major global platforms like Amazon, eBay, and AliExpress will automatically generate a personal customs clearance code field during shopping.

Previously, users had to go through the cumbersome steps of:

Obtaining their personal customs clearance code
Manually entering it during checkout
Tracking delivery and declaring customs separately

From 2025, all these steps will be fully automated and integrated.

Specific improvements include:

Register your personal customs code once during signup, and it automatically applies to all purchases on that platform
Automatic linkage with the Customs Service system at payment completion
Simultaneous shipping tracking and customs declaration, so when your package arrives, the customs process is already underway

⚠️ Watch Out in 2025: New Opportunities, New Risks

With greater convenience comes the need for vigilance.

Beware of phishing sites and scams:

As automatic integration expands, scams exploiting this are expected to rise. Key points to watch for:

Avoid clicking on fake websites claiming to offer “automatic personal customs code issuance” services
Any advertisements offering rental or leasing of personal customs codes are 100% scams: offers to “handle customs for a fee” violate customs law
The only trustworthy source is the official Customs Service UNI-PASS system

Strengthened Personal Data Protection:

While blockchain ensures safer record keeping, users must still be cautious at sign-up:

Download the UNI-PASS app only from official markets (Google Play, App Store)
Never share your issued personal customs clearance code or barcode with others
Since address accuracy becomes more critical, verify your address first via the Address Information Website

💡 Smart Preparations for 2025

Get your personal customs clearance code now: Securing your code ahead of the system change lets you enjoy faster benefits when global marketplace integration rolls out.
Update your address proactively: If you live in newly constructed or redeveloped areas, check your current address status on Address Information Website and register with your local office if needed.
Use only trustworthy channels: For all matters related to your personal customs code, rely solely on official Customs Service sources (UNI-PASS, call center 1566-0800).

🌟 Personal Customs Clearance Code: Your Must-Have Item for 2025

In the evolving customs landscape, the personal customs clearance code is no longer a simple number. It stands at the center of AI-driven smart selection, blockchain-powered transparent records, and seamless integration with global platforms.

To enjoy overseas direct shopping more conveniently and securely in 2025, it’s smart to obtain your personal customs clearance code now, ensure your address information is accurate, and always seek updated information through trusted official channels. Are you ready for the new age of smart shopping? 🌍✈️📦

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