Seoul authorities find toxic substances in Shein and Temu products

Authorities in Seoul have discovered that women's accessories sold by popular online shopping platforms such as Shein, Temu, and AliExpress contain toxic substances at alarmingly high levels, often far exceeding acceptable safety limits. These Chinese e-commerce giants, known for their rapid global growth and competitive pricing, have drawn attention for questionable safety standards, which have been under increasing scrutiny worldwide, including in the European Union and South Korea.

Recent inspections in Seoul revealed that numerous products from these platforms failed safety tests. For instance, shoes from Shein were found to contain phthalates, harmful chemicals used in plastics, at levels 229 times above the legal limit. Phthalates have been linked to reproductive health issues, such as reduced sperm count, infertility, and premature birth. Some phthalates are even classified as carcinogens by the International Cancer Institute, highlighting the serious health risks they pose when in contact with the human body.

Additionally, Shein's caps were found to contain formaldehyde at double the permissible threshold, and nail polish from the brand contained dangerous levels of dioxane and methanol—both harmful chemicals, with dioxane being a potential carcinogen and methanol capable of causing liver damage.

In response to these findings, Shein stated that they work with international testing agencies to ensure compliance with safety standards and that their suppliers must adhere to safety regulations. Similarly, Temu was found to have sandals with lead concentrations in the insoles more than 11 times the legal limit. Temu swiftly removed the affected products from its platform and launched an internal investigation after being notified by Seoul authorities.

Seoul officials have requested that all hazardous products be removed from sale and urged consumers to exercise caution when purchasing items that come into direct contact with the body, such as footwear and hats. The Seoul Metropolitan Government has pledged to continue conducting safety inspections and making the results public to protect consumers.

These revelations come amid broader efforts to regulate online platforms. In April, the European Union added Shein to a list of major digital firms that will be subject to stricter safety measures, particularly regarding the protection of consumers from unsafe products, including those harmful to minors.