Illegal imports of weight-loss drugs top 5,000 through Aug.: customs agency

South Korea's customs agency reported on September 17 that illegal imports of weight-loss drugs, including Wegovy and Mounjaro, have surpassed 5,000 in the first eight months of the year. This represents a significant increase from 1,189 cases recorded throughout all of the previous year, as per data provided by the Korea Customs Service.

The surge in illicit imports has been primarily driven by South Koreans seeking to purchase the medications at lower prices in neighboring countries, despite the fact that these drugs are prohibited from being brought into the country in travelers' hand luggage.

The customs agency has been collaborating with the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety to intensify inspections of imported medications, aiming to safeguard public health against unauthorized products. Utilizing X-ray scans and baggage inspections, the agency returns or discards any items that do not comply with import requirements.

Should the violations extend beyond mere import requirement breaches to encompass offenses like smuggling, the agency asserts that stern measures will be taken, including investigations and penalties.