On June 11, 2025, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety released an administrative notice (Notice No. 2025-250) announcing the draft of the “Regulations on Harmful Ingredients of Tobacco, etc.” to gather public input before its enforcement.
The draft regulation follows the Act on the Management of Tobacco Harmfulness (enacted in October 2023 and set to take effect on November 1, 2025) and aims to identify harmful substances in tobacco products and establish standardized testing methods to enhance routine safety inspections.
Key Provisions:
Designation of Harmful Ingredients:
- 44 harmful ingredients have been identified in cigarettes and electronic cigarettes.
- 20 harmful ingredients have been listed specifically for liquid electronic cigarettes.
Testing Methods:
Standardized test methods will be applied for both combustion-based and liquid-based e-cigarette products to ensure accurate monitoring of harmful components.
Public Participation:
Stakeholders, organizations, and individuals can submit their feedback by July 1, 2025 to the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. Submissions should include whether the respondent is for or against the draft (with reasons if opposed), along with their contact details.
This regulation represents a key step in strengthening tobacco control measures in Korea by increasing transparency and scientific oversight of harmful substances in both traditional and electronic tobacco products.
Source:
News Market:
South Korea