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 in North Korea Is Important For Brand Protection?
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.
Trademark Registration Procedure in the North Korea
Here is the step-by-step process followed for trademark registration in North Korea.
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
Attorney-Assisted Search
In-depth legal search for potential conflicts in North Korea.
Trademark Registration Services
Complete filing and application management for North Korean trademarks.
Trademark Renewal Services
Hassle-free renewals to maintain your North Korea trademark protection.
Watch & Monitoring Services
Continuous monitoring of North Korean trademarks to identify potential conflicts.
Ownership Transfer / Assignment
Efficient handling of trademark ownership transfers in North Korea.
Licensing & Franchising Support
Expert guidance to license or expand your North Korean brand.
Documents 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)
Fees are indicative and subject to change. Contact us for the latest details.
**Last updated on: March 17, 2026
Timeline
In routine cases, registration generally takes about 10–12 months. Formal examination and publication usually occur within 6–12 months of filing. Since DPRK provides for a 12-month opposition period, the overall process may take longer where objections or oppositions arise
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
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