Warning Over Vision Loss: Illegal Online Sales of Contact Lenses Run Rampant on Social Media

Popular colored contact lenses are being sold illegally online through social media platforms, prompting safety warnings.

Under current laws, only certified opticians are permitted to sell contact lenses. Online sales are strictly prohibited.

However, one company continued its operations through direct overseas shipping methods even after receiving a guilty verdict in 2023.

They have continued their business by leveraging cheap prices as their main weapon.

According to data from the Korea Consumer Agency, 221 reports of contact lens-related safety hazards were received from January to September of this year, approaching triple the total number for the entire previous year.

In particular, reports involving individuals aged 10 and under surged more than fourfold compared to last year.

Dr. Park Kyung, an ophthalmologist, warns that "wearing lenses with unverified safety or lenses that do not fit the eyes properly can cause keratitis or decreased vision."
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.