Korea Unveils New Certification Standards for Shared Herbal Facilities

New Standards to Bolster Quality in Traditional Korean Medicine Preparation

The Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) has officially announced the third cycle of certification standards for shared herbal dispensing facilities, set to be implemented from 2026 to 2029. This initiative aims to further enhance the quality, safety, and reliability of traditional Korean medicine (Hanbang) preparations for patients across the nation.

Shared herbal dispensing facilities, known as "Gongdong-iyong Tangjeonshil" in Korean, are specialized centers that prepare prescribed herbal decoctions for various Hanbang clinics and hospitals. These facilities play a critical role, especially for smaller medical practices that may not have the extensive equipment or personnel required to prepare complex herbal remedies in-house. By outsourcing to certified facilities, clinics can ensure their patients receive medicines prepared under stringent quality controls and standardized procedures.

The newly unveiled standards for the 2026-2029 cycle represent an updated framework that all shared herbal dispensing facilities must adhere to. Issued by the MOHW’s Korean Medicine Industry Division, these comprehensive standards typically cover critical aspects such as the sourcing and storage of raw herbal ingredients, adherence to strict preparation processes, maintenance of hygiene protocols, equipment calibration, and overall facility management. Regular updates to these standards reflect the government’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding public health and promoting the integrity and efficacy of traditional Korean medicine.

Facilities seeking certification under these new standards, or those needing to renew their existing certification, are expected to demonstrate compliance within a designated period. The official announcement indicates that the window for engagement and preparation for these standards begins on March 30, 2026, and extends through December 31, 2026. Detailed guidelines, eligibility criteria, and application procedures are provided in the comprehensive PDF document attached to the original government notice, which facilities are encouraged to review thoroughly.

Source: 보건복지부 — Original Article (Korean)