Authorities in Seoul have uncovered alarming levels of toxic substances in women’s accessories sold by major online retailers, including Shein, Temu, and AliExpress. These platforms have gained massive popularity for their trendy and affordable products, but recent inspections reveal serious safety concerns.

In a recent inspection, Seoul officials tested 144 products from these retailers and found multiple items failing to meet legal safety standards. Notably, shoes from Shein contained phthalates—chemicals linked to reproductive harm—at levels 229 times above the legal limit. Caps from the same brand had double the allowable amount of formaldehyde, while nail polish exceeded safe limits for dioxane and methanol, both potential carcinogens.

Temu also faced scrutiny, with sandals found to contain lead in the insoles at more than 11 times the permissible level. Authorities have demanded these products be removed from sale and urged consumers to exercise caution when purchasing items that come into direct contact with the skin.