KAGT, the Korea Association of Gemological Trade, is one of the principal trade bodies of the Republic of Korea jewellery and gem industry, headquartered in Seoul. It represents Korean dealers, retailers and gemmologists, runs gemmological education and certification programmes, and serves as the industry's voice on Korean regulatory and trade questions affecting jewellery, gems and precious metals.

Position within the Korean trade

The Korean jewellery trade is concentrated in Seoul and is built around two major product categories: traditional 24-carat gold for ceremonial and bridal use, and Western-style 14-carat and 18-carat diamond jewellery for the urban middle and upper-middle class. Several trade associations operate in Korea alongside KAGT, including the Korea Jewelry Association and the Korea Wholesale Jewelry Association, which together represent the manufacturing, wholesale and retail tiers of the trade. KAGT's particular focus is on gemmology and gem trade as distinct from manufacturing.

Education and certification

KAGT runs gemmology training programmes and certification examinations for Korean trade professionals, comparable in role to the equivalent activities of the Gemological Association of Great Britain in the United Kingdom or the Gemological Association of All Japan in Japan. The certifications cover diamond grading, coloured-stone identification, pearl evaluation and related disciplines, and provide a recognised credential for Korean gemmologists working in retail, laboratory and wholesale roles.

Trade significance

For the international gem and jewellery trade KAGT is the principal Korean reference body for gemmological education and trade representation. Korean buying patterns, particularly the strong demand for natural pearl, fine diamond melee and certified coloured stones, mean that Korean trade-association engagement is increasingly relevant to international suppliers. KAGT participates in international trade events including the Hong Kong Jewellery and Gem Fair, the JCK Las Vegas show and the Bangkok Gem and Jewelry Fair, and serves as the principal point of contact for international visitors to the Korean trade.