Advertisement for Sales of Powder-Actuated Nail Guns Results in Fine

A man in his 60s, who attempted to sell a "powder-actuated nail gun" on a second-hand trading platform, has been fined by the court.

Judge Seo Young-hyo of the Seoul Northern District Court sentenced Mr. A (62) to a fine of 1 million won for violating the law concerning the safety management of firearms, swords, and explosives.

Mr. A was accused of posting an advertisement on the internet to sell one powder-actuated nail gun (PT450V) on July 18 of last year.

After the post was detected, Mr. A deleted the advertisement three days later; however, he could not avoid the fine as the legal violation had already been confirmed.

Classification of Powder-Actuated Nail Guns as 'Firearms,' Not Tools

The powder-actuated nail gun, used for furniture repair and other purposes, is often perceived by the public as a simple industrial tool. However, due to the use of explosive nails, powder-actuated nail guns are categorized as 'firearms' under the law, considering their power. This means that unlike ordinary tools, they require special management and regulation.

To import or possess a powder-actuated nail gun, it is essential to obtain permission from the National Police Agency or the relevant local police department. Violating these regulations can result in a penalty of up to 10 years in prison or a fine of up to 50 million won, imposing a stringent punishment standard.

Meanwhile, the National Intelligence Service confirmed last year that safety-related items, including powder-actuated nail guns, were being unlawfully imported into the country through famous overseas shopping malls and initiated a special inspection. This highlights the increasing distribution of illegal firearms over the internet and the strengthened monitoring efforts by authorities.

Powder-actuated nail guns are tools used to drive nails into concrete or metal at construction sites or woodworking tasks, operating on the principle of using explosive power to launch the nails. Due to this working mechanism and associated risks, they are classified as firearms, subject to strict management.

Experts advise that "there are instances where the general public mistakenly regards powder-actuated nail guns as simple tools and engages in illegal transactions," adding, "when trading items categorized as firearms, it is crucial to check the relevant laws and regulations."

Image Source: Republic of Korea Policy Briefing, illustrative material for understanding the article / gettyimagesbank