Synthetic Nicotine E-Cigarettes Proliferate Near South Korea Schools, Exploit Regulatory Gap

Concerns over the rising use of e-cigarettes among youth have been highlighted in multiple countries, including South Korea, Ireland, and Thailand. In South Korea, unregulated electronic cigarette vending machines selling synthetic nicotine products are increasingly found near schools, exploiting legal loopholes that exclude synthetic nicotine from tobacco regulations, which has raised alarm about youth access and health risks. In Ireland, health authorities have issued warnings about e-cigarette products falsely labeled as nicotine-free but containing high nicotine levels, urging retailers to ensure product safety and proper labeling to protect consumers from harm. Additionally, in Thailand, surveys show significant e-cigarette use among primary students, particularly females, prompting the creation of educational children's books aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of e-cigarettes. These developments underscore the global challenges in regulating e-cigarettes and protecting young people from nicotine addiction and related health hazards. Efforts to address these issues include calls for legislative reform, improved retailer vigilance, and educational initiatives targeting children and parents.