[Reporter’s Notebook] Self-Test Kits Disappear Again

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Chun-han] As the resurgence of COVID-19 has recently begun, more consumers are experiencing difficulties purchasing self-test kits. This is because, since last month, convenience stores are only allowed to sell these kits if they have registered as medical device sellers.

The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety allowed self-test kits to be sold at convenience stores nationwide starting July 20. This measure ended on September 30 as the spread of COVID-19 slowed down. However, many consumers unaware of this fact have made futile trips to convenience stores. Since most pharmacies are closed during late-night hours, there are situations where people urgently needing self-test kits cannot obtain them.

Currently, about 26,000 convenience stores, roughly half of the total 50,000 stores, have registered as medical device sellers. CU sells self-test kits at around 9,000 stores, GS25 at about 9,000 stores, 7-Eleven at approximately 6,500 stores, and Emart24 at around 1,400 stores. Each company provides services through their own applications (apps) to help consumers check store locations and inventory, but most people are unaware of this. Additionally, while those familiar with smartphones can easily use these services, elderly and visually impaired individuals with relatively low online accessibility are inevitably excluded.

Some concerns have been raised about shortages of self-test kits, but the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety maintains that there is sufficient production capacity. Currently, there appears to be no significant problem with supply or pricing due to the ample availability of self-test kits. However, it should not be forgotten that during past surges in COVID-19 cases, shortages of self-test kits occurred unexpectedly, contrary to government predictions.

Now that the COVID-19 resurgence is in full swing, it is time to improve accessibility to self-test kits. Strong preemptive measures, even if considered excessive, are necessary for issues directly related to the health and lives of the public. The expansion of sales outlets should be reconsidered to ensure consumers do not face inconvenience when purchasing and using self-test kits.