2FIRSTS | South Korea to regulate synthetic-nicotine e-liquids as tobacco from April 24
South Korea will regulate synthetic-nicotine e-liquids as tobacco products starting April 24, extending existing cigarette regulations to these products.Summary
South Korea’s Health Ministry announced amendments to the Tobacco Business Act, effective April 24, which will classify synthetic-nicotine e-liquid vapes as tobacco. This marks the first expansion of the tobacco definition in 37 years and subjects these products to regulations similar to those governing cigarettes, including mandatory graphic health warnings, restrictions on advertising, and bans on use in smoke-free areas. The changes also address vending machine placement and require adult verification. Enforcement checks will begin in late April, coordinated with local authorities, to ensure compliance among retailers, manufacturers, and importers. The move aims to close a regulatory gap that previously existed for synthetic-nicotine products.
(Source：2Firsts)
