Afraid of Money Being Infected with Covid-19 Virus, Korean Man

This updated guide examines Afraid of Money Being Infected with Covid-19 Virus, Korean Man and organizes the essential facts, background, and practical takeaways in clear American English.

The man from Busan has heard rumors that the microwave can disinfect money. So he decided, took about 39 sheets of 10 thousand Won (about 328 USD or 7.6 million) into the microwave and turn on the machine.

Unsurprisingly, a few minutes later smoke began to emerge from the microwave.

Finally he had to bring the other money to the bank to ask in return. However, only 33/39 bills can be exchanged. That also means, this man baked $ 50.

There was a similar incident in China before. Specifically, a woman in Jiangsu province tried to put about 3.1 thousand yuan (about 449 USD or 10.4 million) in the microwave because it thought that high temperatures could kill the virus if they stick to it..

According to the Bank of Korea (BOK), they always use the process of "money laundering" with high temperature and special disinfection equipment before circulating to the market. This process involves drying money at high temperatures as many as 150 degrees Celsius for 2-3 seconds. Then heat the money at about 42 degrees Celsius. These measures will help disinfect money more effectively.

All cash will be circulated from local banks to the central bank. The bank will then store the money for more than two weeks to ensure the virus can be killed after 9 days.

In China, the government has also advised all lenders to disinfect and store money in a dry place for 7 days before giving it to others. This is one of the drastic measures of China to prevent pandemic spread.