Enhancing Korea's Implementation of WTO TBT Notification Obligations

This article examines Korea’s implementation of WTO Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) notification obligations. Despite Korea’s active participation in the TBT framework, systematic deficiencies persist in fulfilling transparency requirements. The analysis identifies two interconnected challenges: first, notification agencies lack sufficient legal authority to ensure compliance with WTO TBT obligations; second, fragmented intergovernmental coordination mechanisms impede effective information-sharing between regulators and notification bodies. To address these challenges, the article proposes reforms including mandatory trade impact assessments for technical regulations, strengthened institutional support mechanisms, and digital platforms to standardize notification workflows. While focused on Korea, these findings offer broader insights for WTO members facing similar implementation challenges in balancing regulatory autonomy with international transparency obligations.