Trends in Nanotechnology Product Registration and Media Coverage in South Korea Across the COVID-19 Era

Our research team’s series on nanoparticle safety in 2014 revealed a significant public knowledge gap in nanotechnology despite its growing industrial use. Over a decade later, with nanotechnology deeply integrated into various sectors and the onset of COVID-19, reassessment is essential. This study investigated patterns in nanotechnology product registration and nanotechnology-related media coverage in South Korea across the periods preceding, during, and following the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim was to describe temporal trends and identify factors that may have contributed to the observed changes. The data from nanoproduct databases, publications, and news articles were analyzed to track changes in nanotechnology use and public awareness across the three pandemic phases. A marked increase in product registrations was observed in 2016, followed by substantially lower annual registration activity in subsequent years, including the COVID-19 period. These findings suggested that the decline in registrations preceded the pandemic and should not be interpreted as a direct consequence of COVID-19. Despite decreased consumer product registration, nanotechnology played a crucial role in diagnostics, vaccines, and protective equipment. The need for increased public awareness and better regulatory enforcement remains critical for future growth and safety.