In a surprising economic trend, North Korea’s exports of wigs to China have witnessed a substantial increase, consequently creating a heightened demand for hair within the country. Notably, some women are strategically growing out their hair to maximize profits by selling it to wig manufacturers amid challenges in sourcing adequate hair for production.
A source from North Pyongan Province, speaking anonymously due to security concerns, revealed that the surge in wig exports to China has posed difficulties in obtaining hair for wig-making within North Korea. The intensified efforts to boost wig exports have led to a particular demand for long hair. However, stringent crackdowns on long hair, ostensibly against socialist sensibilities, have complicated the process of acquiring suitable hair for wig production.
Despite the challenges, some women are navigating the crackdowns by clandestinely growing out their hair to sell it at a premium. The source explained that these women, during severe crackdowns, exercise extreme caution when leaving their homes to avoid detection.
Women are growing their hair to lengths of up to 25 centimeters, with a single bundle fetching prices ranging from 20 to 25 kilograms of corn. Although the process of growing hair is time-consuming, the financial incentives are significant, prompting individuals to wash their hair more frequently in an attempt to expedite growth. Even if sold at a lower price than the cost of soap, the corn earned from selling hair contributes to improving their financial situations.
The source further elaborated that individuals growing and selling their hair often engage with salons, market vendors, and stalls. Running vendors actively gather the hair from these locations and then distribute it to trading companies. While the wig manufacturing industry in North Korea is not as developed as other sectors, an increasing number of families are turning to wig-making as a source of livelihood, leading to a growing interest in the industry.
China Customs’ official trade report for September revealed North Korea’s export of 182 tons of wigs, fake beards, and fake eyelashes to China, amounting to USD 17.96 million. This constituted 65% of North Korea’s total trade with China for that month (USD 27.79 million). Notably, wigs and fake eyelash exports have become North Korea’s top export to China since last year, providing an avenue for foreign currency earnings without being subjected to UN Security Council sanctions. Conversely, North Korea’s largest import from China in September was hair, totaling 206 tons worth USD 21.46 million, as North Korea serves as an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) for Chinese companies involved in the wig industry.
