When expanding globally or registering products overseas, one of the first required documents is a Letter of Authorization (LOA) proving the grant of authority. Korean exporters of pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, or food almost always need an LOA when delegating authority to a local agent — but the legal-certification process trips up many. Here is how to handle it smoothly.
What is an LOA?
An LOA (Letter of Authorization) is a power of attorney used to grant specific authority or appoint a legal representative. It is widely used to register export products with overseas health authorities, register trademarks locally, or delegate authority to a legal representative in trademark litigation — essentially an export-related document. Because it is issued by a private company or individual, it is a private document and must be notarized to be used credibly abroad.
What is fact notarization?
Fact notarization is the procedure by which a notary confirms that the entity, individual, or representative personally signed or sealed the document. In Korea, notarization is performed by a notary appointed by the Minister of Justice under the Notary Act, giving a private document authenticity and credibility.
When do you need it?
- Registering export products with an overseas health authority
- Appointing a local distributor or import agent
- Registering a trademark or handling IP litigation abroad
- Delegating signing or representation authority for export contracts
The certification process, step by step
- Draft the LOAPrepare the LOA specifying the delegated authority.
- Fact notarizationA notary confirms your signature on the private document.
- Apostille or embassy legalizationApostille for a member market; embassy legalization for a non-member.
- SubmissionSubmit to the overseas authority or partner.
How to apply with Apostille Korea
Apostille Korea handles LOA drafting support, fact notarization, certified translation, and certification in one stop, entirely online.
What is an LOA?
A Letter of Authorization — a power of attorney delegating specific authority, widely used in export and IP contexts. It is a private document.
Why does it need fact notarization?
As a private document, it must be fact-notarized to gain public effect before certification for overseas use.
Do I need an apostille too?
It depends on the market — apostille for a Hague member, embassy legalization for a non-member.
Can it be done without traveling?
Yes. Apostille Korea handles fact notarization and certification online.
How long does it take?
It varies by document and market, but typically about 5 to 15 business days. Contact us for urgent handling.
Why Apostille Korea
- Specialist team — apostille, certified translation, and embassy legalization handled directly by experts.
- One-stop service — from issuance support to the finished certification, resolved together.
- Fully remote — apply online from anywhere and receive your documents — no in-person visit.
- Fast handling — urgent cases processed quickly with real-time status updates.
- Accurate guidance — tailored advice analyzing each country's and document's requirements.