Millions of face masks purchased by the South Korean government during the COVID-19 pandemic are nearing their expiration dates, raising concerns about waste and public spending. Data submitted to the National Assembly show that about half of the government’s stored masks will expire within six months. The remaining stock also has less than 18 months of shelf life left.

The masks were bought in large quantities after shortages emerged in 2020, when the government classified masks as emergency supplies. Purchases continued for several years, including a peak year in which more than 120 million masks were added to reserves. After the pandemic eased, however, demand dropped sharply, leaving tens of millions unused.

Current regulations require certified KF masks to be discarded once their 36-month shelf life ends. Officials say existing laws do not allow even usable masks to be donated for free. As a result, expired stock must be destroyed and replaced to meet reserve targets.

However, it is important to note that expired masks can still provide protection, although filtration efficiency may decline slightly over time. Officials have proposed donating the masks to welfare facilities or to countries with limited medical supplies to prevent unnecessary waste and ease the burden on taxpayers.

J.K. Park
Senior Reporter
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