[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Gwan-ju] The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety announced on the 20th that two substances, including 'Etagen,' will be temporarily designated as controlled narcotics.
Etagen is a synthetic opioid with a structure and effects similar to 'Etonitazene,' which is already designated as a narcotic in Korea, and is a substance regulated as a designated drug in Japan.
Additionally, '6-Monoacetylmorphine,' whose temporary controlled narcotics designation period expires in March, will be re-designated as a Schedule 2 temporary controlled narcotic. 6-Monoacetylmorphine is the main active metabolite of heroin acting on the central nervous system, and its side effects and risks are similar to those of heroin.
Substances designated as temporary controlled narcotics are treated and managed the same as narcotics from the date of designation notice, and possession, ownership·use·management·import and export·manufacture·sale·brokerage of sale·and transfer are all completely prohibited and may be seized.
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