A recent study by a civic group has raised concerns about the electromagnetic fields (EMF) emitted by portable electronic devices. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, Jul. 29 (Korea Bizwire) – A recent study by a civic group has raised concerns about the electromagnetic fields (EMF) emitted by portable electronic devices, particularly neck fans that are popular during summer months.
The Center for Environmental Health, a citizens’ advocacy group, reported on July 28 that its measurements of four types of neck fans sold in 2022 and 2023 showed an average EMF strength of 108 milligauss (mG), with peaks reaching 421 mG.
Electromagnetic fields were classified as possibly carcinogenic by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a branch of the World Health Organization, in 2001.
The center pointed out that these levels are 47 to 105 times higher than 4 mG, a threshold linked to increased leukemia rates in children exposed to EMF strengths of 2-4 mG or higher over extended periods, according to IARC findings.
The study also found high EMF levels in other commonly used personal electronic devices. A Chinese-made hair dryer emitted 1,113 mG, while an Apple laptop adapter measured 213.9 mG.
The center emphasized the importance of maintaining a safe distance of at least 30 cm from electronic devices, noting that EMF strength typically drops below 4 mG at this distance. However, they advised against using neck fans altogether, given the difficulty in maintaining a safe distance due to the nature of the product.
The group also criticized the effectiveness of EMF safety standards set by the government and Korea Electric Power Corporation. The current government safety standard is 833 mG, which the center described as “absurd,” noting it is 208 times higher than the 4 mG level associated with increased leukemia risk in the IARC study.
The Center for Environmental Health called for the government to designate EMF as a managed substance under environmental health laws and to establish more effective safety guidelines.
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
