Smoking cessation, even overcome by Yoo Jae-suk and Lee Kyung-kyu, expands with strengthened local government regulations

Celebrity 'No-Smoking' Stars Who Overcame Severe Withdrawal Symptoms

While many declare their break from cigarettes every New Year or anniversary, the process is so arduous that the actual success rate of quitting smoking is less than 10%. Celebrities who have overcome these withdrawal symptoms, practiced 'No-Smoking,' and regained their health are providing positive inspiration to the public.

'Nation's MC' Yoo Jae-suk was once a heavy smoker, but he decided to quit in 2008 following his marriage, the birth of his child, and the physical limitations he felt as a broadcaster. He explained his reason for quitting, saying, "Because I smoked, my physical strength was poor and I couldn't breathe well," adding, "I cannot have more things unless I give up something I like." Instead of cigarettes, Yoo has devoted himself to exercise and currently works out at a fitness club every day.

Entertainer Lee Kyung-kyu started quitting smoking after receiving a red light regarding his health. Having smoked for about 30 years, he challenged himself to quit in 2011 after being diagnosed with emphysema symptoms through a broadcast mission. At the time, he confessed the difficult process on social media, expressing his extreme withdrawal symptoms, but he has maintained his smoke-free status to this day. YouTuber and broadcaster Lalal also practiced quitting smoking by immediately stopping her use of e-cigarettes, which had reached two packs a day, right after confirming her pregnancy.

Gangbuk-gu Completely Bans E-cigarette Use in Non-smoking Zones

In conjunction with the smoking cessation cases of celebrities, local government regulations are also being strengthened. Following the amendment to the Tobacco Business Act effective from the 24th, Gangbuk-gu in Seoul will completely ban the use of e-cigarettes in non-smoking zones. Under the amended law, the use of all types of e-cigarettes, including liquid and heated types, will be restricted not only in public facilities such as schools, hospitals, and government offices but also in outdoor non-smoking zones. If caught using e-cigarettes in a non-smoking zone, a fine of up to 100,000 won will be imposed.

To inform residents of this legal amendment, Gangbuk-gu is distributing promotional materials using QR codes and operating an online reservation system linked to smoking cessation support services. Additionally, it aims to raise awareness for preventing youth smoking by providing guidance on the prohibition of selling, renting, and distributing e-cigarettes to teenagers. For residents wishing to quit smoking, the Samgaksan Health Center will also operate an additional smoking cessation clinic every Wednesday, providing free counseling services, nicotine replacement therapy, and auxiliary supplies for 12 months.

Dongdaemun-gu Launches 'Safe Belt ON' Campaign Around Schools

Community movements to protect youth are also active. Dongdaemun-gu is launching the 'Safe Belt ON' campaign, focusing on the areas around middle and high schools within its jurisdiction, to eradicate the smoking and drinking environments that threaten the health of teenagers. This campaign is conducted jointly by Dongdaemun-gu, the Dongdaemun-gu Public Health Center, and the Dongdaemun Police Station.

The inspection team will intensively inspect convenience stores and marts within a 300m radius of 'intensive management schools' selected through surveys. The inspection team, composed of smoking cessation instructors, moderate drinking supporters, and police, will guide business owners on the prohibition of selling alcohol and tobacco to teenagers and request compliance with ID verification procedures. If violations are found, they will notify the possibility of legal punishment and attach stickers and certification badges containing youth protection messages inside the establishments. Based on future fact-finding survey data, Dongdaemun-gu plans to establish a constant collaboration system with the police to continue management and supervision.