S. Korea passes livestock safety test for 3rd consecutive year, affirming world-class inspection standards

South Korea's Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency has earned a "satisfactory" rating in an international proficiency test for livestock residue inspection for three consecutive years, affirming its world-class testing capabilities.

The agency announced Sunday that it received satisfactory evaluations from 2024 to 2026 in the international proficiency test for livestock residue inspection.

The international proficiency test is a regime in which testing institutions around the world analyze identical samples and compare results to assess the accuracy and reliability of their inspections.

The agency tests livestock products — including beef and pork from slaughterhouses — for residues of antibiotics, veterinary drugs and hazardous substances.

This year's evaluation focused on quinolone antibiotics, which are used to treat diseases in livestock. The agency accurately analyzed all samples and received satisfactory marks across every category.

In last year's evaluation, the agency was recognized for its reliability after accurately detecting chloramphenicol — a substance the EU strictly monitors in exports of domestically produced heat-treated poultry.

The agency also obtained accreditation as an internationally recognized testing institution from the Korea Laboratory Accreditation Scheme in August 2024. Passing the international proficiency test for a third consecutive year again confirmed its capabilities in livestock safety inspection.

"Three consecutive satisfactory ratings in the international proficiency test demonstrate that South Korea's livestock residue inspection capabilities are at the highest level recognized internationally," said Jeong Seung-gyo, head of the agency's Animal Disease Management Division. "We will continue to strengthen the livestock safety management system so the public can feel confident, and work to enhance the export competitiveness of Korean livestock products."