Introduction
South Korea is a country with strict regulations and laws on various aspects of living, including what is allowed and what is not. The country has a unique culture, and its government is keen to maintain it by prohibiting certain activities, items, and practices. In this article, we will explore some of the things that are banned in South Korea.
Food and Drink
South Korea has strict regulations on food and drink products that are imported into the country. Some of the items that are banned include beef and pork from countries with outbreaks of mad cow disease, like the US and Australia. Additionally, the sale of alcohol in convenience stores is prohibited after 10 pm.
Smoking
Smoking in public places is banned in South Korea. This includes bars, restaurants, and cafes. Anyone caught smoking in these areas can face a fine of up to 100,000 won (approximately $88 USD). Additionally, smoking in enclosed areas like offices and public transportation is also not allowed.
- Talk To Me In Korean (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 164 Pages - 09/21/2015 (Publication Date) - Longtail Books (Publisher)
- Kim, Woojoo (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 6 Pages - 11/23/2021 (Publication Date) - Tuttle Publishing (Publisher)
Gambling
Gambling is illegal in South Korea except for one casino located in the remote city of Kangwon Land. Online gambling is also illegal, including playing online poker or betting on sports events. Anyone caught gambling illegally can face fines or imprisonment.
Drugs
Drug use in South Korea is strictly prohibited. The country has some of the harshest drug laws in the world, and anyone found guilty of drug possession can face severe penalties, including imprisonment or even the death penalty.
Weapons
The possession of firearms by civilians is strictly prohibited in South Korea. Even airsoft guns are banned unless they have been specifically approved by the government. Other weapons like knives and swords are also heavily regulated.
Prostitution
Prostitution is illegal in South Korea, and anyone caught soliciting or engaging in prostitution can face fines or imprisonment. However, the law is often ignored, and there is a thriving underground sex industry in the country.
Political Speech
South Korea has strict laws regarding political speech. Anyone who makes statements that are deemed to be harmful to national security can face prosecution, including imprisonment. Additionally, South Korean citizens are prohibited from visiting North Korea without government approval.
Video Games
South Korea has regulations on the use of video games. Online gaming is heavily regulated, and players under the age of 16 are not allowed to play games between midnight and 6 am. Additionally, some games are banned altogether, such as the game “Manhunt” for its violent content.
Plastic Surgery Advertisements
Advertising for plastic surgery procedures is prohibited in South Korea. The country has a reputation for being the plastic surgery capital of the world, but the government has imposed restrictions on advertisements to prevent people from feeling pressured to undergo cosmetic procedures.
Driving
South Korea has strict driving laws that prohibit certain activities while driving, such as using a mobile phone or smoking. Additionally, drivers with a blood alcohol level of 0.05% or higher can face fines or imprisonment.
Religious Propaganda
South Korea prohibits religious propaganda from taking place in public areas. This includes handing out religious pamphlets or preaching in public places. However, freedom of religion is protected by law.
Conclusion
South Korea’s culture and government have led to unique regulations on various aspects of living. From food and drink to political speech and religion, there are many things that are banned in South Korea. It is important to understand these regulations before visiting or living in the country to avoid any legal issues or missteps.
What is not allowed in South Korea?
- Talk To Me In Korean (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 164 Pages - 09/21/2015 (Publication Date) - Longtail Books (Publisher)
- Kim, Woojoo (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 6 Pages - 11/23/2021 (Publication Date) - Tuttle Publishing (Publisher)
The Republic of Korea has strict laws against the importation of certain items, such as guns, drugs, pornographic materials, and counterfeit goods. Visit the website on export controls for more information and a detailed list of items that are subject to export control.
Is anime banned in Korea?
The ban on Japanese media during the last two decades of the 20th century was primarily aimed at Japanese media and prevented Koreans from legally accessing any manga, anime, video games, music, or movies from Japan.
Is Google blocked in South Korea?
On Tuesday, South Korean lawmakers approved a new law that prohibits Apple and Google from obligating app developers to utilize their payment systems, effectively ruling their App Store and Play Store monopolies unlawful and uncompetitive. This move is aimed at increasing fairness and competition in the tech industry.
Is Apple pay banned in Korea?
Apple Pay has finally been given the green light by South Korean financial regulators after years of negotiations with local authorities. This approval sets the stage for the launch of the mobile payment system in the first half of this year, according to The Korea Herald.
What is illegal to bring to Korea?
Banned substances like opium, marijuana, and cocaine are just a few examples of illegal drugs. Other items that are prohibited include certain types of medicine, animal products like handbags made from elephants or alligators, and certain forms of payment like cashier’s checks and postal money orders.
What age is legal in South Korea?
South Korea’s Criminal Act Article 305 states that the minimum age for sexual consent in South Korea is 20 years old, making it one of the highest ages of consent globally. It used to be 13, which was one of the lowest ages of consent in the world before being changed.
Censorship
South Korea has a strict censorship policy on various forms of media, including movies, television shows, and music. The government can ban content that is deemed inappropriate or harmful to society. This includes content that is sexually explicit or violent, as well as content that promotes North Korea or communism.
Drones
Flying drones in South Korea is heavily regulated. Drones are banned from flying over certain areas like airports, military bases, and government buildings. Additionally, drones over a certain weight require registration with the government, and their use is strictly monitored.
Surveillance
South Korea has one of the highest levels of surveillance in the world. The government has installed thousands of CCTV cameras throughout the country to monitor public areas and prevent crime. Additionally, the government can request access to personal information like phone records and internet activity for security purposes.
Animal Cruelty
South Korea has laws that protect animals from cruelty and abuse. However, the country has come under fire for its treatment of dogs, particularly in the dog meat industry. While the consumption of dog meat is legal in South Korea, there are laws that regulate the slaughter and sale of dogs for this purpose.
Freedom of Speech
While South Korea restricts certain forms of speech like political speech and religious propaganda, the country also protects freedom of speech by law. However, there have been concerns about the government’s control over media outlets and the suppression of dissenting opinions.
Environmental Regulations
South Korea has strict environmental regulations to protect its natural resources and prevent pollution. The country has implemented measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase renewable energy production. Additionally, there are laws that prohibit littering and mandate proper waste disposal practices.
