South Korea: Cannabis Laws (Strict Prohibitions & Limited Medical Use)
Last updated: June 18, 2026
Legal notice: Informational only--not legal advice. South Korea enforces strict drug laws, including extraterritorial warnings by authorities. Verify on official legal portals linked below and follow the strictest rule. See Legal Disclaimer & No-Warranty and Terms of Use.
Overview
- Cannabis is regulated under the Narcotics Control Act and its Enforcement Decree.
- Recreational use, possession, cultivation, import/export, and supply are illegal.
- Medical use exists in narrow forms under oversight (e.g., certain cannabis-derived medicines via the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety), subject to strict authorization.
Travel & Compliance Notes
- Do not import or export cannabis. Penalties are severe.
- Driving while impaired is illegal; enforcement is strict.
- Some Korean authorities have issued warnings about conduct abroad; comply with Korea's laws and the local jurisdiction where you are.
Official References
- Narcotics Control Act (English) -- law.go.kr official translation.
- Enforcement Decree (English) -- implementing provisions.