Vapes in South Korea to Face Same Regulations as Cigarettes Starting April 24

South Korea is taking a significant step to regulate the burgeoning vaping market by aligning its laws with those governing traditional cigarettes. Effective April 24, liquid e-cigarettes, commonly known as vapes, will face the same stringent regulations as conventional tobacco products. This move, driven by growing concerns over youth vaping and rising adult usage rates, signifies a major shift in the country's approach to nicotine products.

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Liquid e-cigarettes in South Korea will be subject to the same regulations as conventional cigarettes starting April 24, under a revision to the Tobacco Business Act passed in February.

The revision to the Tobacco Business Act is pivotal, as it redefines 'tobacco products' to encompass all items containing tobacco or nicotine. Previously, liquid e-cigarettes were not classified as tobacco products under South Korean law, creating a regulatory loophole. This expanded definition now brings vapes under the purview of the National Health Promotion Act, mandating health warnings on packaging and imposing strict limitations on advertising. The government's proactive stance aims to curb the increasing popularity of vaping, particularly among young people.

Furthermore, the new regulations address the accessibility of vapes, especially through unmanned stores and online platforms, which have been identified as channels for sales to minors. Tighter controls on automated sales devices, including restrictions on their placement and licensing requirements, are being implemented. For users, the implications are immediate: vaping will no longer be permitted in designated non-smoking areas, a change that aims to protect public health and reduce exposure to secondhand vapor.

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The revised law broadens that definition to cover all products made from tobacco or nicotine, effectively classifying liquid e-cigarettes as cigarettes.

The data from the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency paints a clear picture of the escalating issue. In 2025, 1.54% of female students from grades six to 11 reported using liquid e-cigarettes, surpassing the rates for conventional cigarettes and heat-not-burn products. Adult vape use has also seen a steady rise, climbing from 2% in 2016 to 3.8% in 2024, even as traditional cigarette smoking declines. The Ministry of Health and Welfare's commitment to enforcing these new rules underscores the government's determination to tackle the public health challenges posed by the growing vaping epidemic.

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The government will work to ensure the revised law is quickly implemented in the field.