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#SouthKorea 12/03/24/1600PST: Protests in Seoul against #martiallaw mean business as usual, indicating citizens' support of drug addiction, cheap foreign slave labor and general nationwide corruption; "democracy" Asian style.

(Image: Ko rea is no longer 'drug free' country - The Korea Times

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south korea drug addiction

Overview of Drug Addiction in South Korea

In recent years, South Korea has witnessed a significant rise in drug addiction and related offenses, particularly among its youth. This shift marks a stark contrast to the country's historically low levels of drug use. Various factors contribute to this growing crisis, including social pressures, inadequate rehabilitation resources, and evolving drug distribution methods.

Rising Drug Offenses

Increase in Drug Crimes: The number of drug offenders in South Korea has surged, with reports indicating a 30% increase from 2017 to 2022. In 2022 alone, there were over 18,000 drug arrests, and the trend continues upward with 12,700 arrests reported in the first eight months of 2023
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Youth Involvement: Alarmingly, the proportion of young offenders is rising. Nearly 60% of those convicted of drug crimes in 2021 were aged 39 or younger, and the number of teenage offenders has quadrupled from 2017 to 2022
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. In 2023, teenage drug arrests more than doubled compared to the previous year
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Contributing Factors

Social Pressures: The intense competition within South Korean society, particularly in education and employment, contributes to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. These pressures often lead young people to seek relief through drug use
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Access to Drugs: The proliferation of digital platforms has made drugs more accessible. Young people increasingly obtain drugs through social media and the dark web, circumventing traditional distribution methods
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. This shift has facilitated a culture where group drug use is common at parties and clubs.

Government Response

Policy Measures: The South Korean government has initiated several measures to combat rising drug use. This includes enhancing customs enforcement and increasing funding for drug response initiatives—allocating about 60.2 billion won (approximately $44.6 million) for 2024, which is significantly higher than previous budgets
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Focus on Rehabilitation: Despite strict punitive measures for drug offenses, there is a notable lack of rehabilitation facilities. Currently, South Korea has only six rehabilitation centers, which are insufficient given the rising number of offenders
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. Calls for a more comprehensive approach that includes mandatory rehabilitation for offenders have been made by health advocates
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Conclusion

The escalating issue of drug addiction in South Korea reflects deeper societal challenges that require urgent attention. While the government has begun to respond with increased funding and policy changes aimed at prevention and enforcement, there remains a critical need for enhanced rehabilitation services and a shift in societal attitudes toward drug use. Addressing these underlying issues will be essential for effectively combating the growing drug crisis among South Koreans.

Full text: south korea drug addiction

south korea main illegal drugs

In South Korea, the main illegal drugs and their associated regulations are stringent and well-defined. Here are the key points:

Methamphetamines

Methamphetamines, often referred to as "philopon" or "yaba" in Korea, are among the most prevalent and severely punished drugs. They are widely used and account for a significant portion of drug-related arrests and seizures

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Cannabis

Cannabis, including marijuana and any products containing THC, is strictly prohibited. Possession, use, or distribution of cannabis can result in up to 5 years in prison or fines of up to 50 million won, even if the individual used it in a country where it is legal

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Narcotics and Psychotropics

Drugs such as heroin, cocaine, LSD, MDMA, and ketamine fall under this category and receive the harshest penalties. Possession, distribution, and manufacture of these substances can lead to prison sentences of up to 10 years or fines of up to 100 million won

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Synthetic Drugs

Synthetic cannabinoids and other new psychoactive substances (NPS) are also significant concerns. Synthetic cannabinoids, such as JWH-018, have been identified as emerging threats, and their use is strictly regulated

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Prescription Drugs

Certain prescription drugs containing prohibited substances are also regulated. Even if a medication is legal in another country, it may be prohibited in Korea, and tourists must carry prescriptions and adhere to specific regulations

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Other Substances

Other substances like GHB, Rohypnol, and ketamine, often used as "date rape drugs," are also illegal and strictly controlled. Additionally, misuse of common medicines like dextromethorphan and carisoprodol has been reported among young people

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.Overall, South Korea's drug policy is one of the strictest globally, with severe penalties for drug-related offenses to maintain a drug-free society

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Full text: south korea main illegal drugs

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