HOW WE WORK

From consultation request to Korea channel launch,
in 5 steps.

KONIVO starts with a written report — no sales calls. At every step we make clear which decisions are yours and what KONIVO handles.

Full process: 4–12 weeks (varies by plan) No sales calls — everything in writing

OVERVIEW

The 5-step process at a glance

STEP 01
Brand review
3 business days
STEP 02
Structure recommendation
1–2 weeks
STEP 03
Setup
2–6 weeks
STEP 04
Launch
1–2 weeks
STEP 05
Transition & scale
When needed

STEP BY STEP

Each step explained

01
Review
Brand & compliance review

We analyze your category, product compliance status, target channels, and current distribution structure. We respond within 3 business days with a consultation report — no sales calls.

  • Preliminary assessment of your product category and whether KC / MFDS certification is required
  • Review of your current Korea distribution and any conflicting channels
  • Fit analysis for target channels (Coupang, Naver, Kakao, etc.)
  • Consultation report delivered in writing within 3 business days
02
Structure Recommendation
Recommended entry structure (Plan A / B / C / D)

We recommend the plan that best fits your goals, category, compliance situation, and budget. We spell out the speed, cost, and control trade-offs clearly — and you choose.

  • Options laid out: Plan A (cross-border) / B (proxy) / C (branch) / D (entity)
  • Comparison table of expected cost, timeline, and risk for each plan
  • Our recommended plan for your situation, with reasoning
  • Contract terms and fee structure stated in writing
03
Compliance & Setup
Store, customs, labeling & logistics setup

We open stores under your brand name and handle Korean regulatory requirements — IoR, MFDS, KC, and more. We prepare labeling guidance and customs documentation.

  • Seller accounts opened under KONIVO's name (Coupang, Naver, Kakao)
  • Your brand name, product info, and images registered
  • KC / MFDS certification handled by KONIVO (at-cost, borne by your brand)
  • Korean-language labeling requirements reviewed with guidance provided
  • 3PL inbound and Coupang Rocket Growth setup
04
Launch
Korea channels live — with price & data control

Your products go live on Korean marketplaces. You directly hold pricing authority, data, and promotion approval. Optimization begins from day one.

  • Sales start per channel — listed under your brand store
  • Prices and promotions cannot change without your approval
  • Monthly performance reports (sales, inventory, CS status) delivered regularly
  • Your brand data kept separate and protected from other brands
05
Transition & Scale
Transition & independent operations

As you grow, accounts and data transfer to your own entity. The transfer is a defined procedure written into the contract — not a negotiation.

  • Support to establish your own Korean LLC (Plan C or D)
  • Store accounts, reviews, and customer data fully transferred to your name
  • Independent operations with no KONIVO involvement after transfer
  • The transfer process is a contract clause — not subject to negotiation

WHY DIFFERENT

How we differ from typical agencies and distributors

No sales calls
Your first touchpoint is a consultation report. You can read and review it fully before deciding. No pressure.
Transfer clause in the contract
The procedure to transfer stores, data, and customer assets to you at contract end exists as a clause in the agreement. It is not a negotiation.
No indefinite contract
The base term is a transparent 6 months, then renews automatically. Give 30 days' notice whenever you're ready — the transfer to independent operations is written into the contract, not negotiated case by case.
Transparent settlement
Platform fees, logistics costs, and VAT deductions are disclosed line by line. No black-box settlement that only reports net proceeds.

FAQ

Common questions about the process

Q. Does the first consultation lead straight to a contract?
No. Your first touchpoint is a consultation report. After reviewing your brand and category, we propose a suitable plan and terms in writing. Whether to sign is entirely your decision.
Q. Can we start without a Korean entity?
Yes. Plan A (cross-border) and Plan B (proxy operations structure) can start without your own Korean entity. KONIVO acts as Importer of Record (IoR) and Seller of Record (SoR) on your behalf.
Q. What happens to the stores if we end the contract midway?
Store accounts, reviews, and customer data are transferred to your name following the transfer procedure written into the contract. There is no clause blocking transfer.
Q. How long does setup to launch take?
Typically 4–6 weeks for Plans A and B. Categories that require KC / MFDS certification may take longer depending on certification lead time, which is flagged in the upfront report.

Related pages

Service
IoR · SoR — Importer & Seller of Record
Service
The 6 operating modules in detail
Guide
The 4 entry structures explained (Plans A–D)
FAQ
See all frequently asked questions

Get your consultation report now

Tell us your category and target channels and we'll respond in writing within 3 business days.
No sales calls.

Request a free consultation