Korea Tightens E-Cigarette Rules Under First Tobacco Law Overhaul in 37 Years
Korea is strengthening regulations on e-cigarettes, treating them like traditional cigarettes after a 37-year overhaul of its tobacco laws.Summary
South Korea is significantly tightening regulations on e-cigarettes, bringing them in line with conventional cigarettes for the first time in 37 years. The revision of the Tobacco Business Act, expanding the definition of tobacco to include nicotine, addresses a previous regulatory gap concerning liquid e-cigarettes and synthetic nicotine products. Studies revealed these products contain harmful substances, sometimes exceeding those found in natural tobacco. The new law will enforce restrictions on advertising, online sales, packaging, sales to minors, and impose taxes and inspections. The government anticipates generating approximately 930 billion won in additional tax revenue annually and expects the changes to curb youth smoking, as e-cigarettes are the second most used tobacco product among young people. A two-year grace period will be provided for existing retailers to comply with distance requirements.
(Source：Seoul Economic Daily)
