Secondhand smoke exposure in Korea climbs again, reversing a gradual decline that began in 2020, according to government figures. The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) released the data Thursday, just before World No Tobacco Day. Exposure in indoor public spaces rose to 8.6 percent, up from 7.4 percent in 2022. Indoor workplaces also saw an increase, reaching 8 percent after falling steadily for three years. The findings suggest rising complacency in smoke-free enforcement.
The KDCA defines secondhand smoke as inhaling another person’s cigarette or e-cigarette emissions in a shared environment. Secondhand smoke exposure in Korea climbs again despite earlier success in reducing health risks in public and private places. In 2019, 18.3 percent reported exposure in public indoor areas, dropping to 12 percent in 2020. By 2022, that number had fallen to 7.4 percent—until this year’s uptick. Workplaces followed a similar pattern before reversing course.
Household exposure also climbed, though the numbers remain lower overall. In 2019, 4.7 percent of households reported exposure, which dropped to 2.6 percent by 2022. However, secondhand smoke exposure in Korea climbs again at home, reaching 3 percent in 2023. These shifts have alarmed public health officials and anti-smoking advocates. They warn that secondhand smoke, which contains carcinogens, continues to pose serious health threats.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare pledged new efforts to tighten tobacco controls, including e-cigarette regulation. Officials expressed support for all revisions aimed at closing loopholes in tobacco legislation. Starting June 1, Seoul Station Square will become a designated no-smoking zone, enforced by city officials. Smokers must now use booths around the square or face fines of up to 100,000 won. Officials hope this sends a clear message about public safety.
Signs marking the new non-smoking area appeared Thursday, signaling stricter enforcement in central Seoul. Local governments continue to push for more smoke-free zones in densely populated areas. Experts believe these efforts must expand nationwide to reverse the current trend. Without bolder action, health gains could be erased by inaction and regulatory fatigue. Secondhand smoke exposure in Korea climbs again, reminding policymakers the battle isn’t over.
