Gov’t warns on wasp soju mix

The government warned Tuesday about the dangers of concocting or drinking soju mixed with wasps and other insects, which some people believe is good for their health. The cocktails of clear distilled liquor and the insect ingredients can be highly dangerous, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety warned. The ministry said wasps, centipedes, earthworms, red ants, snakes and plants like the dictamnus root, rhododendron and monkshood are poisonous and potentially fatal when mixed with soju. The ministry issued the warning after TV programs showed people hunting for wasps and their nests and then mixing them with soju at home.

“People consider the wasp-based soju valuable and make it at home to give as gifts,” the ministry said.

“But wasps must not be used like this and the cocktail can be harmful to humans.” Wasp venom can cause a strong allergic reaction.