Trademarks Law in North Korea
Trademark Law in North Korea (DPRK)
1. Legal Framework
Trademark protection in North Korea is governed by:
The Law on Trademarks and Service Marks, first adopted in 1999 and amended since
Administered by the State Intellectual Property Office (SIPO) or equivalent government body
North Korea is not a member of international treaties such as the Madrid Protocol or the Paris Convention
2. What Can Be Registered as a Trademark?
Trademarks can include:
Words, names, letters, numerals
Logos, designs, symbols
Shapes and colors
Sounds or other distinctive signs capable of distinguishing goods or services
The mark must be distinctive and not contrary to socialist ideology or public order.
3. Trademark Registration Process
Applications are filed with the State Intellectual Property Office
The process includes:
Formal examination for completeness
Substantive examination for distinctiveness and compliance with law
Publication may be limited or internal, depending on government procedures
The registration process can be lengthy and tightly controlled
4. Duration and Renewal
Trademark protection generally lasts for 10 years from the date of registration
Renewable for additional 10-year periods
Renewal requires timely application and payment of fees
5. Rights Conferred
Exclusive rights to use the trademark within North Korea
Right to prevent unauthorized use, imitation, or infringement
Limited mechanisms for licensing or transfer due to state control
6. Infringement and Enforcement
Trademark infringement is dealt with under criminal and administrative law
Enforcement is primarily through state authorities
Limited public information on enforcement mechanisms due to DPRK’s closed nature
7. International Protection
North Korea is not a member of the Madrid Protocol or Paris Convention
International applicants must file directly through local agents or representatives
International recognition of trademarks is very limited
Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Governing Law | Law on Trademarks and Service Marks (1999) |
| Registration Authority | State Intellectual Property Office (SIPO) |
| Protection Duration | 10 years, renewable |
| Opposition Period | Not publicly detailed |
| Madrid Protocol Member | ❌ No |
Due to North Korea’s closed legal system, trademark registration and enforcement can be complex and opaque. Assistance from local experts or diplomatic channels is often necessary.
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