Weed in Sejong: Laws, Risks, and Public Perception
Sejong, South Korea’s futuristic administrative capital, is known for its smart city infrastructure, government offices, and a growing population of young professionals and students. While the city is at the forefront of technological advancements, South Korea’s stance on cannabis remains one of the strictest in the world.
As global attitudes toward cannabis shift—with countries like Canada, the U.S., and Germany legalizing or decriminalizing its use—many people in Sejong wonder whether similar changes could happen in Korea. However, the reality is that weed remains illegal, and penalties are extremely harsh.
Is Weed Legal in Sejong?
No. Cannabis is completely illegal in Sejong and across South Korea.
Under the Narcotics Control Act, marijuana is classified as a highly dangerous drug, along with meth, cocaine, and heroin. The South Korean government enforces a zero-tolerance policy, and anyone caught possessing, using, or distributing weed faces severe legal consequences.
Even if a South Korean citizen legally consumes cannabis abroad, they can still be arrested when they return. The government actively monitors drug use among Koreans, both domestically and internationally.
Legal Penalties for Cannabis in Sejong
- Possession or use → Up to five years in prison or a fine of 50 million KRW (~$38,000 USD).
- Selling or trafficking → Life imprisonment or, in extreme cases, the death penalty.
- Growing cannabis → Strictly prohibited, even for personal use.
- Foreigners caught with weed → Immediate deportation and a permanent ban from South Korea.
Sejong, being a government-centered city, has an even stricter environment regarding drug enforcement. Police conduct random drug tests on students, government workers, and even K-pop idols or celebrities who visit the city.
Foreigners, Expats, and Cannabis Laws in Sejong
Sejong attracts international students, government researchers, and foreign diplomats, some of whom may come from countries where cannabis is legal. However, Korean law applies to everyone, regardless of nationality.
Common misconceptions among foreigners include:
- “I can use weed discreetly, and no one will know.” → False. Korean authorities frequently investigate and conduct drug tests.
- “If I buy from another foreigner, it’s safe.” → False. Even foreigners face harsh penalties, and buying or selling cannabis can result in deportation or imprisonment.
- “Korea won’t check my drug history when I return from abroad.” → False. The government monitors citizens who visit countries where weed is legal and conducts random tests at airports.
Medical Marijuana in Sejong
In 2018, South Korea partially legalized medical cannabis, but its use remains highly restricted. Only a few cannabis-based medications, such as Epidiolex (for epilepsy) and Sativex (for multiple sclerosis), are allowed—and only with government approval. Recreational use is still completely illegal.
How Do People Access Weed in Sejong?
Despite the strict laws, some individuals still attempt to access cannabis through:
- The black market – Extremely dangerous due to police surveillance and sting operations.
- Dark web or online orders – Customs authorities actively seize packages containing drugs.
- Connections with foreigners – Some believe buying from foreigners is safer, but it still carries the risk of arrest.
Police frequently monitor online forums and social media for drug-related discussions, making it risky to even talk about weed online.
Who Uses Weed in Sejong?
Although cannabis use is uncommon in Sejong due to harsh penalties and social stigma, some groups have been caught using it:
- Foreign students and professionals unfamiliar with Korea’s strict drug policies.
- University students and young Koreans who experiment with drugs, often leading to serious consequences.
- K-pop idols and actors, whose careers have been destroyed after being caught with weed.
Future of Cannabis in Sejong
Unlike countries moving toward legalization or decriminalization, South Korea remains firmly against cannabis use. The government sees drug use as a national security threat, and there is little public support for legalization.
For now, anyone in Sejong should avoid weed completely. The risks of arrest, imprisonment, and deportation far outweigh any potential benefits, and the country’s zero-tolerance stance is unlikely to change soon.