Police Launch September Voluntary Reporting Period for Illegal Weapons

The Korean National Police Agency will operate the “2026 Second Voluntary Reporting Period for Illegal Weapons” throughout September.

The reporting period covers firearms possessed without a permit or after a possession permit has been revoked, as well as explosives and ammunition, swords, gas sprayers, stun guns, crossbows, and other illegal weapons.

Those who voluntarily report and surrender illegal weapons during the designated period will, in principle, be exempt from criminal liability and administrative penalties.

Illegal weapons can be surrendered by the owner or a representative at a nearby police station, police substation, or military unit. If surrendering the weapons in person during the reporting period is difficult, individuals may contact the relevant police authority to discuss alternative arrangements for submission.

After the voluntary reporting period ends, anyone caught manufacturing, selling, or possessing illegal weapons may face three to 15 years in prison or a fine ranging from KRW 30 million to KRW 100 million, in accordance with the relevant laws.