E-cigarette Liquid Market in South Korea Flooded with Illegal Products, Unregulated Synthetic Nicotine

South Korea's market for liquids used in e-cigarettes is brimming with illegal products, raising concerns about the health risks posed by unregulated synthetic nicotine.

Wild West of E-liquids

An estimated 95% of the e-liquid market in South Korea operates outside the law, peddling liquids with unknown ingredients and nicotine levels. These unregulated products pose a significant health threat to unsuspecting users. Criminal organizations have also set up shop in this Wild West of e-liquids, profiting from the unregulated production and distribution.

Synthetic Nicotine: A Double-Edged Sword

Synthetic nicotine, touted as a potentially less harmful alternative to nicotine derived from tobacco, isn't classified as a cigarette in South Korea. This tax break makes it attractive to both manufacturers and users. However, the Korean government, recognizing the potential risks, is currently conducting research to determine the safety of synthetic nicotine.

Struggling to Stay Afloat

Large tobacco companies, like BAT, are wading into the e-liquid market with synthetic nicotine products. Meanwhile, legitimate businesses are drowning in a sea of illegal competition, their lower prices making them irresistible to consumers.  To stay afloat, some legitimate manufacturers are resorting to illegal production methods themselves.

Public Health at Risk

The lack of transparency surrounding the ingredients and production processes of illegal e-liquids is a ticking time bomb. Mislabeled nicotine content and unknown ingredients put users at risk of serious health problems.

Seeking Solutions

The Korean government is grappling with this complex issue. Their research into the health effects of synthetic nicotine is a positive step. However, stricter regulations are urgently needed to rein in the rampant production and distribution of illegal e-liquids and protect public health.

Finding the right balance between promoting potentially less harmful alternatives and safeguarding public health from unregulated products is crucial for South Korea as it navigates the ever-evolving e-cigarette landscape.

Senior Reporter Jerry Ahn

http://faj.co.kr/View.aspx?No=3247936