Check How to Use and Store Power Banks to Lower Fire Risk
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Key Takeaway
Use a KC-certified power bank, disconnect the power as soon as charging ends, and keep it away from heat, flammable items, and metal objects. If you see swelling or discoloration, stop using it and dispose of it.
What should you check before using it?
The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy guidance splits what to check before use into three items.
| What to check | What the guidance says |
|---|---|
| Certification | Check that it is a KC-certified product and use one whose safety has been confirmed |
| Charger | Check the power bank's rated voltage and current and charge it with a matching charger |
| Condition | Regularly check for swelling, discoloration, and damage, and dispose of it immediately if anything is wrong |
The Korean Agency for Technology and Standards guidance also includes the rule to use KC-certified products. If you already use one, start by checking the markings on the unit.
What should you keep in mind when charging?
Disconnect the power as soon as charging finishes. The guidance explains that overcharging raises fire risk. Charging on top of flammable items such as bedding traps heat, which can cause overheating or let a fire spread widely, so avoid it. It also does not recommend connecting other electronic devices and using them for long periods while charging.
Where is it safe to use?
Avoid hot or humid places. Do not use it in direct sunlight, inside a car, near heating appliances, or in a bathroom. Keep it from being dropped or pressed under heavy objects, and be careful of impacts from outside.
How should you store it?
| Storage situation | What to keep in mind |
|---|---|
| Charge level | Do not leave it fully charged at 100% for a long time |
| Metal objects | Keep it apart from coins, jewelry, and keys. It is dangerous if metal touches the input or output terminals |
| Environment | Avoid hot and humid places |
For a power bank you will not use for a while, it is good to check its charge level and storage place once before putting it away.
What should you do if warning signs appear?
If it overheats or gives off an unusual smell, stop using and charging it. If you see it swollen, discolored, or cracked, dispose of it right away. Do not throw it out with ordinary trash; it is safer to check your local government's battery separate-collection guidance. If you suspect a product defect, contact the place of purchase or the manufacturer.
Who can you contact?
The Korean Agency for Technology and Standards' Certification and Standards Information Center is at 1381, and you can find KC certification information in the certification search menu of the Product Safety Information Center (safetykorea.kr). The rules here are government guidance published in April 2025, and the date checked is 2026-10-08. For later revised standards, look at the latest guidance from the Korean Agency for Technology and Standards and the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy again.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I recognize a KC-certified product?
Government guidance says to check that a product is KC certified before use. For the detailed standards on certification numbers and mark display, check the Product Safety Information Center (safetykorea.kr) and the Certification and Standards Information Center at 1381.
Can I use my phone while the power bank is charging?
The guidance says not to connect other electronic devices and use them for long periods while the power bank is charging. The basic rule is to disconnect the power as soon as charging finishes.
Can I keep using a swollen power bank?
The guidance says to dispose of it immediately if you see swelling, discoloration, or damage. If anything looks wrong, stop using it and follow your local government's battery collection guidance.
Sources & Verification Date
- Safe use of portable power banks (Policy Briefing, Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy 2025-04-18) · Verified
- Use portable power banks safely (Korean Agency for Technology and Standards 2025-04-17) · Verified
All materials have been verified from official announcements and may have changed since verification.