North Korean Authorities Warn of Skin Disease Outbreak Amid West Coast Beach Pollution
North Korean authorities have issued warnings to citizens to avoid beaches along the country’s west coast, following a surge in skin conditions among beachgoers. The alarming rise in cases of rashes, hives, and severe itchiness has been linked to wastewater spilling into the ocean from overloaded water treatment facilities. Heavy rains in late July overwhelmed these facilities, leading to the contamination of popular beach areas, including the renowned Wau Island resort in Nampo.
A source in South Hwanghae Province, speaking anonymously to Daily NK, reported that local residents have been increasingly affected by unusual skin irritations after visiting these beaches. In response, the government circulated a directive to neighborhood watch units, factories, and offices, urging citizens to avoid the affected areas.
Despite the apparent severity of the pollution, the authorities have stopped short of closing the beaches entirely. The directive attributes the skin issues to the wastewater, yet only advises caution rather than enacting a complete beach shutdown. This decision, according to the source, reflects the government’s determination to keep popular tourist spots like Wau Island open to maintain economic targets.
The lack of decisive action has sparked widespread dissatisfaction among locals, who feel the authorities are neglecting public health in favor of economic considerations. “People are saying that if the wastewater has backed up and is spilling into the ocean and causing skin conditions, the authorities should have closed the beaches and taken measures to clean up the polluted water,” the source said. The reluctance to close the beaches has only fueled fears among residents, with many worried about contracting serious skin diseases.
As public anxiety grows, the government’s seemingly casual approach to the crisis risks exacerbating tensions. Without proactive measures to clean up the polluted water or restrict beach access, local dissatisfaction and distrust in the government’s handling of the situation are likely to worsen.
The situation highlights the broader challenges faced by North Korea, where economic pressures often lead to compromises on public health and safety. For now, beachgoers are left to navigate the risks on their own, with little more than a government advisory to guide them.
Daily NK sources report from within North Korea, China, and other locations under strict anonymity due to security concerns.
