The recent sandstorm season in Korea has boosted domestic sales of pork, which according to folk belief can mitigate the effects of the dust on the respiratory system.

The theory has not been scientifically proven, but some Koreans say eating pork makes their body feel cleaner when the sandstorms from China hit the nation.

Some 600-g portions of the meat have gone up in price by about W500 (US$1=W975) because of increased demand.

Meanwhile, a number of businesses are taking advantage of the phenomenon by organizing marketing events such as providing protective white masks, discounts on pork and free meals when dust warnings are issued.