Weed in Yeongju: Understanding South Korea’s Strict Cannabis Laws
Yeongju, a city in North Gyeongsang Province, South Korea, is known for its rich cultural heritage, serene landscapes, and historic Buddhist temples. However, one thing that is not part of Yeongju’s culture—or anywhere in South Korea—is the legal use of marijuana.
South Korea maintains one of the strictest anti-drug policies in the world, and cannabis is classified as a highly illegal substance. This means that even in a peaceful city like Yeongju, possessing, using, or distributing weed can lead to severe legal consequences.
Is Weed Legal in Yeongju?
No. Marijuana is completely illegal in Yeongju and throughout South Korea.
South Korea’s Narcotics Control Act treats cannabis as a dangerous drug, similar to cocaine and heroin. Unlike some Western countries that have legalized or decriminalized cannabis, South Korea enforces a zero-tolerance policy, meaning that even the smallest amount of weed can result in criminal charges.
South Korean citizens are also prohibited from using marijuana abroad, even in countries where it is legal. If a South Korean smokes weed in Canada or the United States, they can still be arrested and prosecuted when they return home. Authorities frequently conduct random drug tests on travelers coming from countries where cannabis is legal.
What Are the Penalties for Cannabis in Yeongju?
South Korea enforces strict punishments for cannabis-related crimes:
- Possession or Use → Up to 5 years in prison or a fine of 50 million KRW (~$37,000 USD).
- Selling or Distributing → Up to 10 years in prison or a fine of 100 million KRW (~$74,000 USD).
- Growing Marijuana → Severe penalties, including long-term imprisonment.
For foreigners, the consequences can be even worse. If caught with marijuana, they usually face immediate deportation and a lifetime ban from re-entering South Korea.
Additionally, South Korean police monitor online activity, meaning that even searching for weed-related content or attempting to buy cannabis online can lead to investigation and arrest.
Medical Marijuana in South Korea
In 2018, South Korea partially legalized medical marijuana, but access remains extremely restricted. Only a few specific cannabis-based medications are allowed, such as:
- Epidiolex – For severe epilepsy.
- Sativex – For multiple sclerosis.
- Marinol – For chemotherapy-related nausea.
Even for these limited medical uses, patients must go through a strict approval process with the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS), and recreational marijuana remains completely illegal.
Cannabis Culture in Yeongju
Unlike some large cities where an underground drug culture may exist, Yeongju is a quiet and traditional city with little to no presence of cannabis use. The community places a strong emphasis on lawfulness, family values, and respect for regulations, making drug use highly frowned upon.
Drug offenses, even involving cannabis, can ruin careers, reputations, and families. Many celebrities and professionals in South Korea have faced public disgrace and career-ending consequences after being caught with marijuana.
What Happens If You’re Caught with Weed in Yeongju?
If someone is arrested for a cannabis-related crime in Yeongju, they can expect:
- Immediate Arrest – Police will detain and interrogate the suspect.
- Drug Testing – Authorities conduct hair and urine tests to confirm cannabis use.
- Harsh Legal Consequences – Even first-time offenders face jail time or heavy fines.
- Public Exposure – Drug-related arrests often become national news, leading to social stigma and career destruction.
- Deportation for Foreigners – Non-Korean nationals are typically expelled and permanently banned from re-entering the country.
Final Thoughts: Avoid Cannabis in Yeongju
Yeongju is a city known for its rich history, peaceful atmosphere, and deep-rooted traditions—but cannabis has no place here. South Korea’s laws regarding marijuana are among the toughest in the world, and both locals and tourists should avoid any involvement with weed.
Instead, visitors can enjoy Yeongju’s cultural sites, stunning natural scenery, and warm hospitality—without any legal risks.