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Label technology launched to foil counterfeiters

By Minjun Park
1 min read
counterfeit bag
counterfeit bag
In this article (4)

Security-label technology has been launched in South Korea that can prevent “label replacement” on clothing preventing counterfeit items being disguised as genuine.

The state-run Korea Minting, Security Printing and ID Card Operating Corp (Komsco) say its security-label technology can make labels for clothing using fibers containing special security materials.

If the label is placed in front of a special security material detector, an alarm sounds to confirm it is genuine.

On the contrary, fake labels do not generate sound because sensors cannot recognize the presence of security materials.

The technology can be used not only for labels attached to clothes but also for embroidery attached to uniforms or sports club uniforms, officials from Komsco explained.

Eco-friendly containers for products such as instant noodles can be developed using eco-friendly cotton fiber of the same type used to make banknotes,

“The key to money manufacturing is anti-forgery technology,” Komsco CEO Cho Yong-man said, adding that “the technology can be used in various areas of society, not just money”.

Questions & Answers

Q.

What specific problem does this new security label technology aim to solve in the fashion industry?

A.

This technology aims to prevent "label replacement" on clothing. This practice involves disguising counterfeit items as genuine products by swapping their labels, which the new security labels are designed to stop.

Q.

How does the security label technology confirm a product's authenticity?

A.

The security labels contain special materials. When placed in front of a security material detector, an alarm sounds for genuine items, but fake labels will not trigger a sound as they lack these materials.

Q.

Beyond clothing labels, what other applications are mentioned for this technology?

A.

Komsco officials state the technology can also be used for embroidery on uniforms, such as those for sports clubs. Also, eco-friendly containers can be developed using similar cotton fiber.

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