Dr. Kwon Hyuk-soo, professor of allergy and immunology at Asan Medical Center in Seoul, has issued a clear warning about the health risks posed by burning scented products such as incense, candles, and air fresheners. Speaking in his capacity as head of the Asthma and COPD Center and the Drug Safety Center at Seoul Asan Hospital, Dr. Kwon emphasized that any substance burned to produce smoke releases harmful compounds that can damage the respiratory system, particularly in individuals with pre-existing conditions like asthma or allergic rhinitis.
His comments align with growing concern among respiratory specialists about indoor air quality and the hidden dangers of everyday household items. While often marketed as tools for relaxation or ambiance, products that generate smoke through combustion—including traditional Korean incense (hyang), Western-style candles, and essential oil diffusers that utilize heat—can emit particulate matter and volatile organic compounds known to irritate airways and trigger inflammatory responses.
According to his verified professional profile, Dr. Kwon holds a medical degree and both master’s and doctoral qualifications from Seoul National University College of Medicine. He completed his clinical training at Seoul National University Hospital before joining Asan Medical Center in 2012, where he has since served as a professor in the Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. His leadership roles include directing both the Asthma and COPD Center and the Adverse Drug Reaction Monitoring Center at the hospital.
Dr. Kwon’s expertise spans a broad spectrum of allergic and respiratory conditions, including bronchial asthma, allergic rhinitis (hay fever), atopic dermatitis, urticaria (hives), food and drug allergies, and hereditary angioedema. He is particularly recognized for his function in identifying genetic targets involved in drug allergy mechanisms and for contributing to the development of novel asthma therapies.
Beyond clinical practice, Dr. Kwon has been active in public health communication, appearing on Korean television programs such as KBS’s “Morning Yard” to educate viewers about seasonal allergies, the impact of air pollution on respiratory health, and practical strategies for managing conditions like allergic rhinitis during high-pollen seasons. His media engagements aim to translate complex immunological concepts into accessible advice for the general public.
The specific concern raised by Dr. Kwon—that burning substances creates toxins harmful to the body—is supported by scientific literature on indoor pollution. Combustion of organic materials, whether in incense sticks or scented candles, produces fine particulate matter (PM2.5), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and formaldehyde, all of which are associated with respiratory irritation, reduced lung function, and exacerbation of inflammatory airway diseases. These risks are heightened in poorly ventilated indoor environments where pollutants can accumulate.
Individuals with asthma may experience bronchoconstriction, increased mucus production, and heightened sensitivity to triggers when exposed to smoke from scented products. Similarly, those with allergic rhinitis may suffer worsened nasal congestion, sneezing, and postnasal drip due to irritation of the mucous membranes. Even in asymptomatic individuals, repeated exposure to low-level airborne irritants can contribute to chronic inflammation over time.
Dr. Kwon’s recommendation is not to eliminate all use of such products but to prioritize safer alternatives. He advises opting for unscented, non-combustible options when seeking fragrance or ambiance—such as essential oil diffusers that use ultrasonic technology (which do not involve heat or flame), beeswax or soy candles with cotton wicks (known to produce less soot), or simply improving ventilation through open windows or air purifiers equipped with HEPA and activated carbon filters.
He likewise stresses the importance of reading product labels carefully, noting that terms like “natural” or “herbal” do not guarantee safety when combustion is involved. The act of burning, regardless of the source material, fundamentally changes the chemical composition and releases byproducts that can be harmful when inhaled.
As part of his broader public health message, Dr. Kwon encourages individuals with chronic respiratory conditions to monitor their symptoms in relation to household exposures and to consult with allergy or pulmonology specialists when experiencing unexplained flare-ups. Keeping a symptom diary that tracks potential triggers—including the use of scented candles, incense, or cleaning sprays—can help identify patterns and guide preventive measures.
His guidance reflects a preventive approach to respiratory health that emphasizes environmental control alongside medical treatment. For patients managing asthma or COPD, reducing exposure to known irritants is a cornerstone of therapy, often complementing the use of inhaled corticosteroids, bronchodilators, or biologics in more severe cases.
In South Korea, where the use of incense remains common in both religious and domestic settings—particularly during ancestral rites (jesa) and mindfulness practices—Dr. Kwon’s advice carries cultural relevance. He acknowledges the traditional significance of such practices while advocating for modifications that reduce health risks, such as shortening burn time, using smaller quantities, or ensuring adequate ventilation during and after use.
Internationally, similar warnings have been issued by respiratory organizations. The American Lung Association has cautioned against regular use of wood-burning fireplaces and scented candles in homes with asthma sufferers, while the European Respiratory Society has highlighted indoor air pollution as a modifiable risk factor for chronic respiratory diseases.
Dr. Kwon’s ongoing work at Asan Medical Center includes clinical research into the molecular pathways of allergic inflammation and the development of personalized treatment strategies for patients with complex allergic phenotypes. His dual role in clinical care and drug safety monitoring allows him to assess not only therapeutic efficacy but also potential adverse reactions, including those triggered by environmental exposures.
For readers seeking authoritative guidance on managing allergic and respiratory conditions, the Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology at Asan Medical Center provides outpatient services, diagnostic testing (including skin prick tests and specific IgE blood assays), and specialized clinics for asthma, COPD, and drug allergies. Appointment information and physician schedules are available through the hospital’s official website.
As awareness grows about the impact of indoor air quality on long-term lung health, medical professionals like Dr. Kwon Hyuk-soo play a vital role in bridging clinical expertise with public education. His message is clear: while the desire for pleasant scents and calming atmospheres is understandable, the method of delivery matters—and when it involves fire and smoke, the potential harm to our bodies may outweigh the benefits.
To stay informed about respiratory health guidelines, allergy management strategies, and updates from leading medical institutions, readers are encouraged to follow trusted health journalism and consult directly with healthcare providers. Sharing reliable information helps foster communities where preventive health practices are understood, and supported.