North Korea has relaxed its strict obligation to wear COVID-19 masks, after reports from state media indicated that a large number of people were not wearing them. Radio Free Asia (based in the United States) reported, citing undisclosed sources, that "residents and factories were informed to cancel the COVID-19 restriction compliance since July 1." The radio report noted that "authorities eased the requirement because the use of old masks and strict control over masks led to outbreaks of skin and eye infections." However, a month after this announcement, authorities ordered citizens to wear masks in public places again, expressing concerns about the potential spread of influenza and infectious diseases during the fall and winter seasons, without specifying COVID-19.