The Korean National Police Agency will run a voluntary reporting period for illegal weapons for the month of September.
The Korean National Police Agency said on the 30th it will run the "2026 second voluntary reporting period for illegal weapons" from Sept. 1 to 30. Items subject to reporting include firearms possessed without a permit or with a canceled permit; explosives such as gunpowder, blasting agents, and live ammunition; swords; spray devices; stun guns; and crossbows.
A reporter or a representative can submit the illegal weapon to the nearest police station, police substation, police box, or military unit. Those who voluntarily report during the period are exempt from criminal punishment and administrative sanctions.
If the person intends to continue possessing the weapon, they may obtain a lawful permit after checks for disqualifying factors.
Illegal firearms refer to factory-made guns lawfully manufactured by existing companies but possessed without a permit, as well as homemade guns assembled by individuals from parts.
After the voluntary reporting period ends, anyone caught manufacturing, selling, or possessing illegal weapons will face 3 to 15 years in prison or a fine of 30 million won to 100 million won under relevant laws. A reward of up to 25 million won will be paid if a report of an illegal weapon leads to the arrest of the possessor.
In January this year, the amended Firearms and Gunpowder Control Act took effect. Accordingly, not only firearms but also swords, spray devices, stun guns, and crossbows must have their possession permits renewed every three years. If the possession permit was obtained before 2004, it must be renewed by Jan. 7 next year.
Required documents and procedures for renewing a permit are available from the Crime Prevention and Order Division of the local police station with jurisdiction.