A Daiso shop in Seoul, a localized version of a U.S. dollar store. (image: Daiso)
SEOUL, March 7 (Korea Bizwire) — A heated debate has erupted over South Korean discount retailer Daiso’s sale of low-cost health supplements, as pharmacists oppose the move while consumer groups argue it infringes on consumer rights.
The Korea Consumer Organizations Council issued a statement on March 7 condemning the pharmacist associations’ objections, stating, “Health supplements are not pharmaceuticals, and consumers have the right to purchase them freely.”
Daiso began selling over 30 types of supplements from Daewoong Pharmaceutical, Ilyang Pharmaceutical, and later, Chong Kun Dang at around 200 locations nationwide starting in late February. Prices range from 3,000 to 5,000 KRW ($2.30–$3.85) per month’s supply, significantly lower than similar products sold in pharmacies.
The ‘Dr. Bear’ lineup, a national health project featuring 26 products, was launched through a collaboration between Daewoong Pharmaceutical and Daiso. (Image courtesy of Daewoong Pharmaceutical)
Pharmacists’ Concerns and Industry Response
Pharmacists have voiced concerns that Daiso’s pricing—as low as one-fifth the cost of products sold in pharmacies—could impact their sales. In response to mounting pressure, some pharmaceutical companies are reconsidering their participation.
Ilyang Pharmaceutical has decided to discontinue restocking once initial supplies are depleted, while Chong Kun Dang Health is reviewing whether to pull its lutein supplements and other products from Daiso stores. However, the company noted that its Lacto-Fit probiotic, introduced at the beginning of March, is priced similarly online, with a 15-day supply selling for 5,000 KRW.
Daewoong Pharmaceutical is also deliberating whether to withdraw its products. The company had launched 26 types of supplements under its ‘Dr. Bear’ brand at Daiso, including multivitamins, milk thistle for liver health, lutein for eye health, and children’s multivitamins.
“Dietary supplements from major pharmaceutical brands currently being sold at Daiso. (screenshot image from X (formerly Twitter))
Consumer Groups Defend Market Competition
Consumer advocates argue that pharmacists’ opposition constitutes an unfair restriction on free market competition. They point out that the Daiso supplements differ in composition, dosage, and packaging—offering a more affordable, one-month supply alternative to traditional 36-month bulk packages.
The consumer organizations accused pharmacist groups of pressuring pharmaceutical companies to boycott Daiso, leading to the withdrawal of at least one supplier. “This is a clear restriction of consumer choice and an unjust interference in the free market,” they said in a statement.
They further urged regulatory bodies to protect fair competition and market accessibility, stating, “A market where a variety of products at different price points coexist benefits both consumers and businesses. Attempts to distort market order and limit consumer choice through unfair trade practices must be firmly opposed.”
Ashley Song (ashley@koreabizwire.com)
