News

Selfie stick retailers are being threatened with jail for all the wrong reasons

People using selfie sticks in Bangkok
People using selfie sticks in Bangkok

South Korea's government has threatened selfie stick retailers with up to three years in prison or 30 million won (£17,236) fines.

Rather than this move being part of a crackdown against selfie sticks themselves on the basis of taste and common sense, authorities are trying to stop the uncertified selling of sticks with Bluetooth functionality, the Wall Street Journal reports.

The problem? South Korea's science ministry says Bluetooth devices have to be tested before going on the market in case they emit electromagnetic radiation which interferes with nearby electronic device. The government is now starting checks on retailers to see if they are selling "uncertified" products. South Korean citizens are also being encouraged to report rogue selfie stick sellers.

More: Bear selfies are apparently the new tiger selfies, still ridiculous

The Conversation (0)
x