North Korea
Trademark Registration in North Korea - Protect Your Brand Nationwide
Trademark matters in North Korea are administered by the Department of Trademarks and Industrial Designs under the Ministry of External Economic Affairs. The Office examines and registers trademarks in DPRK. North Korea joined the Madrid System in 2000. Trademark applications are filed through a local agent and undergo formal examination, examination of distinctiveness, and a search for prior marks. According to available accounts, the Office grants preliminary approval and publishes the mark in an online bulletin, after which oppositions may be lodged within one year of filing. If the application clears these stages, the mark proceeds to registration.
Why Trademark Registration is Important in North Korea?
Exclusive Rights: Grants you exclusive legal ownership and control over your trademark for the registered goods/services within North Korea.
Legal Enforcement: Enables you to take action against infringement, counterfeiting, and unauthorized use through the State Academy of Sciences (Trademark Office) and relevant authorities.
Nationwide Protection: Secures trademark protection across the entire territory of North Korea.
Market Positioning: Strengthens brand identity and establishes recognition in a highly controlled and unique market environment.
How the North Korea Trademark Registration Works
The Palestine trademark registration system follows a structured sequence of reviews, publications, and legal checks. These steps ensure that trademarks meet all statutory requirements and remain protected over time.
Filing
Trademark applications must be filed through a DPRK-licensed local representative before the Department of Trademarks and Industrial Designs. The application should include the trademark specimen, applicant details, proof of company registration, and the list of goods and services. A signed simple power of attorney is also required, and notarization is generally not required.
Examination
After filing, the Office conducts a formal examination, an examination of distinctiveness, and a review of earlier marks. DPRK practice is primarily national, although international applications may also designate DPRK through the Madrid System.
Publication
If preliminarily accepted, the trademark is published in the online bulletin.
Opposition Period
Oppositions may be filed within 12 months from the filing/publication stage.
Registration
If no opposition is filed, or if the opposition is rejected, the trademark proceeds to registration and the certificate is issued.
Validity & Renewal
Trademark registrations are valid for 10 years from the date of the registration certificate and may be renewed for further 10-year terms. Non-use for 5 consecutive years after registration may result in cancellation.
Trademark Services Available in North Korea
Requirements for Filing
Trademark representation / specimen
Goods and services classification
Applicant’s details
Proof of legal existence / company registration
Power of Attorney (simple signed copy)
Priority document (if priority is claimed)
The fees listed above are indicative and may not reflect the most current charges. Please contact us to obtain the latest and accurate fee information.
**Last updated on: March 17, 2026
Timeline
Validity & Renewal
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