Butterfly Knives in Korea

[kountonme]

Hey guys,

Can anyone tell me if it is illegal or legal to have butterfly knives in Asian countries such as, Korea or Japan? It would be grateful if anyone could answer this question at anytime. And also, do any of you know if they sell butterfly knives in Korea? Thanks

 

[corwise]

Don't know about Korea, but since you mentioned Japan as well I'll tell you what I know. I've never seen anything about butterfly knives specifically, but they are very restrictive. No double edged knives other then registered art knives (so no daggers, no double edged butterflys). No knives over 6 cm (about 2.4 in). I've also seen written rules limiting size to 2.5 in and 3.1 in, so they're not extremely clear. The way they are written you can be arrested for buying a set of steak knives in a store and walking home. I carry a Spyderco Meerkat, pretty much the only folder I could find that I felt safe carrying.
Of course, all these rules are being translated through the military, so might be the reason for some of the confusion, but Okinawa (and from what I understand all of Japan) is not a knife friendly location.

 

[cabron50]

Check out www.knifegallery.co.kr The retail store is located in the Insadong neighborhood of Seoul and sells just about everything you can think of including butterfly knives. If you are ever in Seoul it is absolutely worth a visit.