City officials said they tested 25 toys purchased from global platforms including Temu, Shein, and AliExpress. Four products failed to meet domestic safety regulations, with one “keyring doll” found to contain phthalate plasticizer (DEHP) at concentrations up to 278 times the permitted limit in its face, hands, and feet.
DEHP, or di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, is classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer as a potential human carcinogen. It is also known to disrupt endocrine function and has been linked to reproductive harm.
Other items flagged in the inspection included modeling clay that contained CMIT (chloromethylisothiazolinone) and MIT (methylisothiazolinone), chemical preservatives banned in humidifier disinfectants in South Korea after being implicated in a public health crisis. Exposure to these substances at elevated levels can cause severe irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system.
In addition to chemical hazards, two educational toys failed physical safety assessments.
One toy, designed in the shape of a weighing scale, had dangerously sharp base plates that posed puncture risks. Another toy — a sorting game involving clips and fabric balls — lacked proper safety labeling and was found to develop sharp edges when damaged.
In response, Seoul officials have formally requested that the e-commerce platforms remove the non-compliant products from sale. Authorities also issued a public advisory urging caution when purchasing children's products via international direct-to-consumer websites.
The city government said it would expand the scope of its inspection in May to include children’s textile items, anticipating a surge in seasonal demand ahead of Children's Day on May 5.
reporter
Kim Dong-young
davekim0807@ajupress.com
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.
View more comments