This was followed by tax concessions, reduction of taxes and allowing free distribution of cigarettes. 7,500 people were engaged full-time in the tobacco manufacturing industry in 1989. Tobacco consumption Per capita consumption is still increasing, having risen from 1,800 in 1967 to 3,050 in 1992. The average daily consumption of cigarettes by smokers was 17. In 1990, tar levels of cigarettes ranged from 7.70 mg to 16.0 mg, and nicotine levels from 0.60 mg to 1.00 mg.
All cigarettes sold are filter-tipped.
These data show a reduction in prevalence in virtually all age groups in both sexes from 1980, a drop particularly marked among women. However, since August 1995, cigarette vending machines are banned in Seoul. Tobacco advertising is totally banned on radio and newspaper, but permitted in magazines 120 times a year for each brand, except where the main readership are women or young people, where no advertising is allowed. The government has the power to modify or ban any type of cigarette advertisement. Sports and arts sponsorship is allowed except where the majority of the audience are either female or young.