Living in a Smokefree Zone

Korea has come a long way when it comes to smoking. Long gone are the days when university professors smoked in the middle of lectures, when patrons were able to enjoy a cigarette in a movie theater and when it was even possible to light up on an airplane. Further strides have been made more recently to curb the consumption of tobacco but there may be more that can be done.

Following the lead of many western countries over the previous decade, the Korean government began introducing indoor smoking bans in restaurants, bars and even internet cafes, where the overpowering smell of nicotine and smoggy air were a part of the ambiance. Many skeptics figured these laws would be toothless but they've mostly been followed and now it's difficult to remember a time when it was possible to smoke inside. At around the same time, the price of a pack of cigarettes nearly doubled and graphic warning labels were introduced.

Though the numbers have dropped significantly over the last several years (even well before these measures were implemented) smoking is still very common in this country. It is now strictly an outdoor activity and one doesn't have to go far to find discarded cigarette butts on the ground. Perhaps more can be done to get smokers to kick the habit — and to encourage young people not to take it up.

Vocabulary:

✓ come a long way: people or situations that have improved over time

✓ patrons: customers

✓ strides: progress; improvements

✓ curb: reduce

✓ ambiance: atmosphere and character in a place

✓ skeptics: those who are doubtful of others; people who question accepted ideas

✓ toothless: ineffective; a law or organization that has little to no power

✓ graphic: an image that is very disturbing to look at

✓ discard: something which is thrown away

✓ kick the habit: to quit

✓ take up: to begin a habit or hobby

Discussion Questions:

1. What are your memories of smoking back in the day? Do you remember any other places in which people were permitted to smoke?
2. Do you think that Korea's anti-smoking measures have been effective? Why or why not?
3. What would you suggest be done to further reduce the consumption of cigarettes in this country?
4. Most people know that it's unhealthy but they continue to smoke. Why do you think that is?
5. Are there any other social ills (ie excessive alcohol consumption, dangerous driving, obesity, etc.) that require government action or is smoking a unique case?