[Asia Economy Reporter Na Ye-eun] As the COVID-19 pandemic continues and masks have become a part of daily life, a so-called 'kosk' that only covers the area around the nose has been released in Korea. Foreign media introduced this product, and positive reactions have followed.
The UK's Guardian reported on the 3rd (local time) that 'kosk' is a compound word of nose and mask, stating, "an unusual Korean mask that protects users even while eating is attracting attention online."
The media analyzed that since the easiest entry points for COVID-19 into the human body are the 'mouth' and 'nose,' wearing a 'kosk' is effective.
Professor Catherine Bennett from the School of Epidemiology at Deakin University’s Institute for Health Transformation in Australia said, "It may seem strange because it only covers the nose, but it is better than nothing."
The Guardian also specifically mentioned the 'komaskeu' manufacturers and distributors, reporting that a box containing 10 masks is sold for 9,800 won.
The media also reported on Korea's COVID-19 situation. Since the outbreak, Korea has recorded 6,812 deaths, which is only 133 deaths per one million people, while the UK has 2,300 and the US 2,747 deaths per the same standard.
In particular, the US recorded an average of 800,000 new cases two weeks ago, but this number sharply dropped to the 300,000 range on the day of reporting. In Korea, although confirmed cases have surged recently due to Omicron becoming the dominant strain, quarantine experts predict that the number will peak and then sharply decline, similar to the US and UK.
Earlier, the Washington Post also introduced Korea's 'kosk' product on the 1st.
Overseas netizens responded positively, saying, "Innovative product," "Korea's way of overcoming COVID-19 is clever," "Great idea," and "Is it not sold in the UK?"
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