S. Korean broker nabbed for distributing 5.8 bln won worth of fake goods from China

Seoul authorities have apprehended a South Korean broker for distributing counterfeit goods worth 5.8 billion won (approximately US$4.2 million) via e-commerce platforms, according to the drug ministry. The suspect, who reportedly conspired with Chinese manufacturers, was turned over to the prosecution.

The investigation, conducted jointly by the Ministry of Intellectual Property and the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, revealed that the suspect allegedly orchestrated the distribution of 61 fake product varieties, primarily cosmetics and health supplements, from October 2024 to November 2025. The total value of these counterfeit goods amounted to 4.5 billion won.

Separately, 87 varieties of fake goods valued at 1.3 billion won were discovered in a Cheongju warehouse. The suspect is believed to have imported 10,984 items from China, with 82,860 of these items sold on e-commerce sites such as Coupang and Naver. The remaining 18,124 products were confiscated by authorities.

The South Korean broker's alleged method involved purchasing goods directly from Chinese accomplices, storing them in a warehouse, and then delivering them to customers. However, it remains unclear how many customers purchased the counterfeit products.

Authorities seized 13 million won in proceeds earned by the South Korean broker through commissions from the Chinese manufacturers. Nonetheless, they cautioned that it would be challenging to hold e-commerce platforms like Naver and Coupang accountable for this case.