Korean Expat Community for National Disasters

"Hello and welcome to the podcast! I’m Madinabonu, a foreign student here in Korea, and today we’re tackling a topic that many of us have probably noticed but might not talk about enough—smoking in Korea. If you’ve walked around the streets, university campuses, or even outside cafes, you’ve likely seen just how common smoking is here. But behind the cloud of smoke lies a serious public health and social issue that affects both smokers and non-smokers alike.In this episode, we’ll dive into the negative impacts of smoking in Korea, how it affects expats, and what’s being done to address it." Why Is Smoking So Common in Korea? "Let’s start with why smoking is still so widespread in Korea. Despite growing health awareness, smoking remains deeply embedded in social and professional culture. 1. Social Pressure – Many people start smoking due to workplace culture, where joining a smoke break can be seen as an essential way to bond with colleagues. 2. Affordability – Cigarettes in Korea are relatively cheap compared to other countries, making them easily accessible. 3. Stress Culture – With Korea’s high-pressure work and study environment, smoking is often used as a stress reliever, especially among students and professionals. While smoking rates have decreased over the years, they’re still quite high compared to global standards, especially among men." "Now, let’s talk about the downsides. While smokers might see it as a personal choice, the reality is that smoking impacts everyone around them, including us. 1. Health Risks. Korea has one of the highest rates of smoking-related diseases, such as lung cancer and heart disease. For non-smokers, exposure to secondhand smoke increases the risk of respiratory issues, allergies, and even long-term health complications. 2. Impact on Public Spaces. Despite designated smoking areas, it’s still common to see people smoking in restricted zones, like sidewalks or near building entrances. As a result, secondhand smoke becomes an unavoidable part of daily life, especially in crowded urban areas. 3. Environmental Damage. Cigarette butts are everywhere—in the streets, near bus stops, and even in parks. These butts contain toxic chemicals that pollute the environment, harming both nature and public health." What Is Korea Doing About It? "Thankfully, Korea has been making efforts to tackle this issue. 1. Stronger Regulations: Smoking indoors is banned in restaurants, cafes, and public buildings, and fines for smoking in non-designated areas have increased. 2. Awareness Campaigns: Graphic warnings on cigarette packs and public health campaigns aim to discourage smoking. 3. Price Hikes: The government has raised cigarette prices multiple times to reduce smoking rates, though affordability remains an issue. However, enforcing these rules consistently remains a challenge." What Can We Do as Expats? "While we might not be able to change the culture overnight, here’s how we can manage and contribute to a healthier environment: 1.Respect the Rules – Always use smoke-free zones and encourage others to do the same. 2. Set Boundaries – If you’re uncomfortable with smoking in social settings, politely excuse yourself or suggest a smoke-free alternative. 3. Join Awareness Efforts – Some universities and organizations promote anti-smoking initiatives, so consider participating or supporting these efforts. At the end of the day, it’s about respecting cultural differences while also advocating for our health and well-being." "Smoking in Korea is a complex issue, rooted in culture and social habits. However, it's important to recognize its negative effects on public health, the environment, and our daily lives. By staying informed, setting boundaries, and supporting healthier initiatives, we can contribute to a cleaner, smoke-free future. This is Madinabonu, signing off—stay healthy and stay smoke-free!"