South Korean lawmaker calls for stricter regulation of synthetic nicotine and stronger adult verification

Nov.05.2024
South Korean lawmaker calls for stricter regulation of synthetic nicotine and stronger adult verification
A South Korean lawmaker calls for stricter regulation of synthetic nicotine e-cigarettes, urging a comprehensive review of adult verification processes and vending machine sales to better protect youth from their harm.

According to a report from N.News on October 5th, during the recent 325th regular meeting, South Korean Busan City Councilor Kim Ha-jung made suggestions on how to protect teenagers from the harm of e-cigarettes.


She emphasized that synthetic nicotine e-cigarettes are currently not regulated under the existing Tobacco Control Law, therefore not subject to the same regulations as traditional tobacco products. This allows teenagers to easily obtain them through methods such as online shopping.


The legislator calls on the Busan city government to strengthen regulation of the sales and distribution channels of e-cigarettes to prevent illegal sales to minors. She suggests that the city government take proactive administrative measures after amending the law, including conducting relevant research and legislation. She also recommends that the city's education department increase harmfulness education for teenagers to enhance their awareness.


Currently, teenagers are being threatened by synthetic nicotine e-cigarettes. It is imperative to thoroughly examine age verification procedures and unmanned sales machines, and all possible measures should be taken to protect young people.


At the same time, Congress also introduced relevant bills. In July, Congressman Park Seong-hun submitted an amendment to the Tobacco Business Act, which plans to include synthetic nicotine e-cigarettes under legal regulation.


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