Weed in Andong: South Korea’s Strict Cannabis Laws
Andong, known as the “Capital of Korean Spiritual Culture,” is famous for its rich traditions, historic sites, and Andong Soju—one of Korea’s strongest liquors. However, when it comes to weed, Andong, like the rest of South Korea, has a zero-tolerance policy.
Whether you’re a local, a tourist, or a foreign resident, possessing, using, or selling marijuana in Andong can lead to serious legal consequences.
Is Weed Legal in Andong?
No. Weed is completely illegal in Andong and all of South Korea.
Under South Korea’s Narcotics Control Act, marijuana is classified as an illegal drug, making recreational use, possession, sale, and cultivation strictly prohibited.
Even if you consume weed in another country where it is legal, South Korea’s laws still apply to its citizens, meaning you can be arrested upon returning home.
Penalties for Marijuana Use in Andong
South Korea enforces strict drug laws, and anyone caught with weed in Andong could face:
- Possession or Use → Up to 5 years in prison or a fine of 50 million KRW (~$37,000).
- Selling or Distributing → Up to 10 years in prison or a fine of 100 million KRW (~$74,000).
- Growing Cannabis → Could lead to life imprisonment in extreme cases.
For foreigners, the risk includes deportation, blacklisting, and permanent entry bans.
Medical Marijuana in South Korea
In 2018, South Korea became the first East Asian country to legalize medical marijuana, but with very strict regulations. Only a few CBD-based medications (such as Epidiolex and Sativex) are permitted, and patients must receive government approval before using them.
However, recreational marijuana remains strictly illegal, and even medical cannabis is not widely available.
Is There a Cannabis Scene in Andong?
Unlike major cities like Seoul or Busan, Andong is a smaller, more traditional city, meaning there is almost no visible cannabis culture. Police in Andong are highly alert, especially since the city is known for its historical and cultural importance.
There are no underground cannabis cafes, dispensaries, or black-market hotspots. Online discussions or social media posts about weed can also be monitored by authorities, and attempting to buy marijuana online can result in arrests and investigations.
What Happens if You Get Caught?
South Korean police conduct random drug tests, especially on foreigners, students, and nightlife areas. If caught, you may face:
- Immediate arrest and detention.
- A criminal record, making future travel and employment difficult.
- For foreigners: deportation and lifetime ban from re-entering South Korea.
Conclusion
If you are in Andong, avoid any involvement with cannabis. South Korea has some of the strictest drug laws in the world, and breaking them can result in harsh punishment, imprisonment, and deportation.
Andong is a city best known for its traditional culture, food, and heritage—not for weed. If you want to stay out of trouble, it’s best to respect the laws and avoid any connection to marijuana while in South Korea.