Seoul Metropolitan Council Addresses Regulatory Gaps in Vape Industry as Youth Usage Surges

Nov.13.2024
Seoul Metropolitan Council Addresses Regulatory Gaps in Vape Industry as Youth Usage Surges
Kim Kyung-hoon, a member of the Seoul Metropolitan Council's Education Committee, raised the issue of vape regulation at an administrative audit meeting, pointing out that the product contains nicotine and is popular among teenagers, calling for stricter measures.

Kim Kyung-hoon, a member of the Seoul Metropolitan Council's Education Committee, raised the issue of vape regulation at an administrative audit meeting, according to a report by n.news on November 13. 

 

Kim pointed out that the product, unlike regular cigarettes, has a fruit flavor and is difficult to distinguish from regular smoking, but it contains nicotine. A survey by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency shows that about 70% of teenage smokers start using vapes, highlighting the severity of the problem.

 

Kim emphasized that vapes are likely to be used as drugs and there are distribution channels among teenagers. He called on the Education Office to strengthen enforcement, investigate the situation, and take appropriate measures. The Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education responded that there is no separate data on the current situation, and vapes are not included under the current tobacco laws, which would require legal amendments.

We welcome news tips, article submissions, interview requests, or comments on this piece.

Please contact us at info@2firsts.com, or reach out to Alan Zhao, CEO of 2Firsts, on LinkedIn


Notice

1.  This article is intended solely for professional research purposes related to industry, technology, and policy. Any references to brands or products are made purely for objective description and do not constitute any form of endorsement, recommendation, or promotion by 2Firsts.

2.  The use of nicotine-containing products — including, but not limited to, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, nicotine pouchand heated tobacco products — carries significant health risks. Users are responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.

3.  This article is not intended to serve as the basis for any investment decisions or financial advice. 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any inaccuracies or errors in the content.

4.  Access to this article is strictly prohibited for individuals below the legal age in their jurisdiction.

 

Copyright

 

This article is either an original work created by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with proper attribution. All copyrights and usage rights belong to 2Firsts or the original content provider. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other form of unauthorized use by any individual or organization is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally accountable.

For copyright-related inquiries, please contact: info@2firsts.com

 

AI Assistance Disclaimer

 

This article may have been enhanced using AI tools to improve translation and editorial efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, inaccuracies may occur. Readers are encouraged to refer to the cited sources for the most accurate information.

We welcome any corrections or feedback. Please contact us at: info@2firsts.com

China to Cancel VAT Export Rebates on E-Cigarette Products from April 1, 2026
China to Cancel VAT Export Rebates on E-Cigarette Products from April 1, 2026
China’s Ministry of Finance and State Taxation Administration have announced adjustments to export tax rebate policies, placing nicotine-containing non-combustible inhalation products within the scope of items subject to rebate cancellation. The measures will take effect from April 1, 2026.
Regulations
Jan.10
Consultation opens for Tasmania’s Public Health Amendment Bill 2026
Consultation opens for Tasmania’s Public Health Amendment Bill 2026
Consultation opened on February 6, 2026 for the Public Health Amendment (Prohibited Tobacco and Other Products) Bill 2026. The Bill intends to address illicit trade in tobacco, nicotine pouches and e-cigarettes, which has increased significantly across Tasmania in recent years. It proposes changes to the Public Health Act 1997 to further protect the health of Tasmanians by reducing the sale and supply of illicit tobacco, vaping and other products, and to strengthen existing tobacco control laws.
Feb.06 by 2FIRSTS.ai
KDCA youth panel: health indicators worsen with grade level; liquid e-cigarette use tops cigarettes among 11th-grade students
KDCA youth panel: health indicators worsen with grade level; liquid e-cigarette use tops cigarettes among 11th-grade students
Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency’s Youth Health Panel Survey (2025) Final Results Report says key adolescent health indicators worsen as students move up grade levels. By 11th grade, lifetime tobacco experience rose to 9.59%. Among 11th-grade girls, current use of liquid e-cigarettes (1.54%) surpassed conventional cigarettes (1.33%) for the first time.
Feb.10 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Japan Tobacco Expands Heated Tobacco Customization Strategy with Artist-Led Limited Editions
Japan Tobacco Expands Heated Tobacco Customization Strategy with Artist-Led Limited Editions
Japan Tobacco has launched a limited-edition Ploom AURA front panel series in collaboration with musician Ichiro Yamaguchi, featuring five customized designs incorporating brass, Kutani ware, verdigris, kintsugi, and rosewood motifs. Two editions are available through retail channels, while three are distributed via a membership lottery system. The initiative highlights JT’s growing focus on exterior customization and design partnerships as part of its broader heated tobacco brand strategy.
Feb.11 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Thailand’s Bangkok Police Bust Two Warehouses, Seize Over 100,000 Heated-Tobacco Items Worth $960,000
Thailand’s Bangkok Police Bust Two Warehouses, Seize Over 100,000 Heated-Tobacco Items Worth $960,000
Bangkok police said they raided two warehouse locations linked to an online distribution network for illicit vaping/heated-tobacco products, seizing IQOS ILUMA i devices and large quantities of TEREA sticks worth more than 30 million baht (about US$960,000). Three suspects described as administrators and caretakers were arrested, while investigators probe suspected smuggling routes and unpaid excise liabilities.
Feb.02 by 2FIRSTS.ai
JT Delivers Record FY2025 Results as RRP Accelerates and Ploom Expands Globally
JT Delivers Record FY2025 Results as RRP Accelerates and Ploom Expands Globally
JT reported record FY2025 revenue and adjusted operating profit, supported by combustible resilience and accelerating reduced-risk product growth. Heated tobacco volumes surged, led by Ploom. The group confirmed a major three-year RRP investment plan and projected further growth in 2026.
Feb.12