BY : Kim Jung-Chul (medical expert)
While it may be possible to purchase drinks and dietary supplements made in North Korea as souvenirs or at a North Korean restaurant’s recommendation, consumers need to be aware of that what makes them feel good can be fatal to their health as well as those of their loved ones.
‘Angung Uhwanghwan’, which is advertised as a cure-all by North Korea, has been found to pose significant health risks according to the test result conducted by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. Although North Korea has promoted it as a high-end pharmaceutical, it was found to contain mercury at levels 40,000 times higher than the permitted level and even steroids.
Other North Korean products, including ‘Heuk samryeokgang’ and ‘Hyeolgungbullo jeong’, have been found to be contaminated with heavy metals such as arsenic, mercury, and lead. Sildenafil and tadalafil, the main ingredients of Viagra and Cialis for erectile dysfunction, have also been detected in ‘Saesam Gangjeong’ which is sold as an energy-boosting supplement.
Many North Korean-made dietary supplements in markets can cause serious side effects when consumed, making it necessary to check the name of the product and its production site. In addition, as the safety of dietary supplements, food and pharmaceuticals produced in North Korea cannot be trusted, consumers need to pay particular attention.
