Complete Guide to Shipping from Korea to Hong Kong | Latest Rates, Delivery Time & Key Tips

How to Calculate Korea to Hong Kong Shipping Cost?

Calculate the Shipping Cost

Shipping costs are calculated based on shipment’s actual weight or volumetric weight, which compares actual weight and volumetric weight—the higher value applies. For example, bulky but relatively lightweight items like down jackets, cardboard boxes, or plush toys take up more space during transportation, so the shipping cost will be calculated based on volumetric weight rather than actual weight.

Apart from weight, the type of service also affects the actual shipping cost. Most shipments from Korea to Hong Kong use DHL Express Worldwide, which offers a good balance between speed and price. For customers with stricter delivery time requirements, options such as DHL Express 12:00, ensuring delivery to the specified address by the designated time on the next business day, though these services come at a higher cost.

Key Factors Affecting Shipping Cost

Beyond weight and service type, several other factors can influence shipping costs. The pickup location plays a role, as major cities such as Seoul benefit from a greater number of DHL facilities, which helps maintain stable costs and predictable transit times. In contrast, remote or island areas may involve additional pickup and transfer charges. Similarly, the destination in Hong Kong can affect pricing, with deliveries to remote areas or islands often subject to surcharges. 

Costs may also rise when optional services are added, such as insurance for high-value goods, handling of dangerous items, temperature-controlled logistics, special loading arrangements, or monthly fuel surcharges that fluctuate based on global oil prices. For accurate estimates, refer to DHL’s article about how to calculate international express shipping costs.

How Long Does Shipping from Korea to Hong Kong Take?

DHL Express Delivery Time

In general, using DHL Express to ship from Korea to Hong Kong takes about 1 to 3 business days. For certain popular routes and cities—such as shipments from Seoul to Hong Kong—if customs documents are complete and flights are available, delivery can be as fast as the next business day.

DHL provides tracking throughout the entire shipping process—from pickup, international flight transit, arrival in Hong Kong, customs clearance, to final delivery. At every stage, both the sender and recipient can check the latest status via the DHL system to stay informed. In addition to standard delivery, DHL also offers On Demand Delivery (ODD) services, allowing recipients to reschedule delivery dates, change delivery address, or authorize placement in a safe spot, giving them flexibility to manage their time.

Factors Influencing Delivery Time

In reality, the shipping time from Korea to Hong Kong can be affected by various factors. First is whether the customs documents are complete and accurate, including the commercial invoice, shipment details, value, currency, and recipient information. If the declaration is vague or the goods are misclassified, Hong Kong Customs may request additional documents or clarification, which can extend the overall transit time.

Second is the origin city and delivery address. Shipments departing from Seoul’s hub can enter DHL’s international network more quickly, while those from other Korean cities depend on local pickup times and transfer arrangements, usually requiring extra processing time. On the Hong Kong side, deliveries to Central Business Areas generally follow standard schedules, but remote or special locations may need additional arrangements, slightly affecting delivery time.

During holidays and peak shopping seasons, the volume of outbound shipments from Korea and inbound shipments to Hong Kong surges, which may lead to tight flight schedules and longer transit times at hubs. Weather and flight conditions also play a role—snowstorms, typhoons, or airport disruptions can all cause delays. Senders should consider these factors and plan shipments in advance.

Shipping Restrictions from Korea to Hong Kong

Prohibited Items

Items prohibited under DHL and Hong Kong regulations cover a wide range of goods that cannot be shipped. These include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, and compressed gases, as well as narcotics and other illegal drugs. Weapons are also restricted, encompassing firearms, ammunition, and offensive items like collectible blades. Lithium batteries that are non-compliant—such as those that are damaged, swollen, or loose—are not permitted, and flammable or pressurized consumer goods like perfumes, nail polish, and aerosols also fall under the ban.

Live animals and plants cannot be transported, nor can counterfeit products, cash, gold bars, or undeclared high-value items. DHL strictly enforces these regulations and will refuse to carry any items that appear on its prohibited or restricted lists, helping ensure safety, compliance, and smooth international delivery operations. DHL will not transport items on its prohibited or restricted lists.

Restricted Items

Certain regulated items may be accepted under specific conditions, depending on the type of goods and packaging requirements. The most common example is electronics containing lithium batteries, such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and wireless earphones. These must comply with UN38.3 testing standards and be packaged according to DHL guidelines. In most cases, they can be shipped safely, but declarations must be clear and accurate—never label battery-powered products as generic accessories. For detailed instructions, refer to DHL’s lithium battery shipping guidelines.

When it comes to food, most pre-packaged, clearly labeled, and non-homemade items can generally be shipped to Hong Kong. The packaging must clearly state the ingredients and expiration date and remain intact and unopened to avoid customs delays due to unclear labeling.

High-value items such as luxury watches, jewelry, and designer handbags are not necessarily prohibited, but it is strongly recommended to purchase adequate insurance based on the item’s value. Also note that if the declared value exceeds a certain threshold, additional documentation and declarations may be required.

For cosmetics and skincare products, classification depends on the ingredients. Items like sprays, nail polish, and styling products with high alcohol content may be considered dangerous goods, requiring prior verification and possibly special handling through dedicated channels.

Alcoholic beverages with alcohol content above 24% (such as spirits) are usually subject to stricter restrictions, while those with lower alcohol content depend on packaging and quantity. Health products such as traditional Chinese medicine and supplements must comply with Hong Kong Customs and relevant regulatory requirements, as some ingredients may fall under controlled substances or plant/animal restrictions, requiring extra caution during declaration.

Regardless of the type of goods, when shipping from Korea to Hong Kong, it is essential to accurately declare the item name, purpose, quantity, and value. Providing the correct Harmonized System Code (HS Code) is also recommended to help customs classify items faster, reducing clearance delays and ensuring smooth delivery.