Jung Min-ho has worked as a staff writer at The Korea Times since 2012, mostly covering social and political issues. He currently belongs to the Politics & City Desk where he covers topics such as health, labor and human rights. Prior to joining the team, he was responsible for covering North Korea and sports. His article about a biosecurity breach of Middle East respiratory syndrome won him an award from the Korea Science Journalists Association in 2016. He is also the co-author of the book, "Medical Pioneers of Korea" (2019). He served as the head of the international relations committee at the Journalists Association of Korea from 2021 to 2023.
Future uncertain for Sealy Korea amid radon fears
The Nuclear Safety and Security Commission is expected to fine Sealy Korea after completing its inspection. Screengrab of Sealy Korea's website
By Jung Min-ho
By Jung Min-ho
The future of Sealy, a global bedding maker, remains uncertain in Korea after some of its mattresses were found to emit excessive levels of a cancer-causing gas.
A similar case several months ago has pushed local company Daijin Bed to the brink of bankruptcy.
On Feb. 13, the Nuclear Safety and Security Commission (NSSC) ordered the U.S. company to recall 357 mattresses of six models ― produced between January 2014 and November 2016 ― after finding they were contaminated with the radioactive gas radon.
The models are Majesty Deluxe, Cygnus, Pegasus, Veloce, Hospitality Euro Top and Violet.
Following the decision, Sealy recalled about 500 mattresses of nine models (Canna, Morendo and Allegro added) on Feb. 14.
Radon is a radioactive, colorless, odorless and tasteless gas. According to the World Health Organization, it is the biggest cause of lung cancer after smoking. Studies in Europe, North America and China have confirmed that even low radon concentrations have health risks and contribute significantly to lung cancers worldwide.
“We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience we have caused,” Sealy said.
“We have confirmed that some of the memory foams made by our OEM (original equipment manufacturer) contain higher-than-permissible levels of radon … Our business relations with the OEM ended in November 2016.”
Sealy said it has made all its products since its factory here started operating on Nov. 30 2016.
The NSSC is expected to fine Sealy after completing its inspection. Lawsuits from customers may follow.
All this is expected to damage Sealy's image in the country, which was gripped by radon fears last year. In May, the NSSC found dangerous levels of radon in mattresses produced by Daijin. The company later recalled more than 60,000 mattresses, but the scandal destroyed its finances and the image of latex mattresses.
On Dec. 24, Daijin said it had suspended recall services after using most of its cash.