Claw machines topped the list with a maximum EMF exposure of 9.97% of the safety standard. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, Jul. 5 (Korea Bizwire) – All consumer products tested for electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure in the first half of this year have met safety standards, according to a government report released on July 4.
The Ministry of Science and ICT announced that 38 products across 13 categories were examined, with exposure levels ranging from 0.69% to 9.97% of the human protection standard, indicating they fall within the safety norms.
Among the tested items, claw machines and wired fast-charging stations for electric vehicles showed the highest EMF exposure levels. However, even these peaked at just under 10% of the safety threshold.
Claw machines topped the list with a maximum EMF exposure of 9.97% of the safety standard, closely followed by electric vehicle charging stations at 9.56% when in operation.
Hair dryers consistently registered high readings, with exposure levels between 4.43% and 8.63% of the limit.
Other common household items also fell well within safe limits. Toilet bidets measured between 1.58% and 4.89%, while car massage seats ranged from 1.48% to 3.25%. Wireless charging facilities for electric scooters and temperature-controlled bus stop seats showed even lower levels, at 1.18% to 1.73% and 1.19% to 1.61% respectively.
The ministry noted that devices with motors, such as claw machines and hair dryers, tend to emit higher levels of EMF when in operation. Similarly, bidets registered higher readings when their heating function was active.
Summer appliances like air conditioners and electric fans (including circulators) exhibited relatively low EMF exposure, measuring between 0.06% and 0.90% of the safety standard.
South Korea adheres to EMF safety guidelines recommended by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP), which are endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO).
For those interested in more detailed results, the ministry directs the public to the National Radio Research Agency’s website (www.rra.go.kr/emf), where comprehensive data on EMF exposure in everyday life is available.
Ashley Song (ashley@koreabizwire.com)
