No. Vaping with minors in a vehicle violates South Korea’s Youth Protection Act and Tobacco Business Act, enforced by the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) and Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA). Since 2023, stricter penalties apply, including fines up to ₩5 million ($3,800) for adults allowing vaping in cars with children under 19.
Key Regulations for Vaping in a Car with Kids in South Korea
- Youth Protection Act (2023 Amendment): Prohibits any tobacco or vaping product use in vehicles when minors are present, regardless of consent. Violations trigger administrative penalties and potential criminal charges under Article 26-2.
- Tobacco Business Act (Enforcement Decree 2024): Mandates visible “No Vaping” signs in vehicles transporting children; failure to display risks fines up to ₩3 million ($2,300).
- KDCA Guidelines (2026 Compliance Shift): Requires parental/guardian accountability for third-party exposure. Electronic monitoring devices (e.g., breathalyzers) may be mandated in shared family vehicles by 2026.