Vapes in South Korea to face same regulations as cigarettes starting April 24
South Korea will regulate vapes like cigarettes starting April 24th, broadening the definition of tobacco products and tightening controls.Summary
Starting April 24th, South Korea will enforce the same regulations on liquid e-cigarettes (vapes) as on traditional cigarettes, following a revision to the Tobacco Business Act passed in February. Previously, vapes were not legally classified as tobacco products. The revised law expands the definition of tobacco products to include those made from tobacco or nicotine, subjecting all nicotine-based products to health warnings and advertising restrictions under the National Health Promotion Act. The changes also regulate automated sales devices and prohibit vape use in non-smoking areas, eliminating previous loopholes where vape-related fines were often waived. This decision comes amid growing concerns about rising vape use, particularly among young people – data from the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency shows a higher percentage of female students using vapes than conventional cigarettes. The Ministry of Health and Welfare will begin enforcement in late April, collaborating with local governments to ensure compliance.
(Source：The Straits Times)
