Kim Jong Un’s North Korea has experienced a strange increase in the number of men experiencing hair loss, the New York Post reports citing experts. Experts spoke to Radio Free Asia (RFA), discussing how the phenomenon seems to come from several sources, including infections that caused hair loss as a result and the use of soap and laundry detergent that contain “harsh” chemical ingredients.

Choi Jeong Hoon, a doctor from North Korea explained that it is not “easy” for North Koreans to find “mild” chemical products adding that the cost of hair loss treatment for the average citizen is prohibitive – and it often doesn’t turn out to be very effective.

Another expert argued that army hats can also damage hair due to lack of proper ventilation, leading to bacteria build-up and clogged pores which can result in thinning hair. All able-bodied men are usually required to serve 10 years in the armed forces.

Hair loss is also an issue in South Korea

However, as the New York Post reports, hair loss is not just a North Korean issue. South Korea has also seen in recent years sudden hair loss in the male population and even managed to influence last year’s presidential election.

Candidate Lee Jae-myung, who is not bald, won the support of voters after proposing that the government should pay for hair loss treatments.

Online baldness communities exploded with Lee’s support, as South Korea only covered treatments for baldness caused by certain diseases. Reports say that one in five South Koreans suffering from hair loss.