Dispute arises over partially covered warnings on tobacco products

Graphic warning images on the cigarette packs of several brands are being partially covered by protective tape, in what could be a violation of rules on such warnings.

Among the products in question are those from Chunghwa, a Chinese brand that is available only at duty-free shops, and Hallasan, Lilac, This and Mevius. The four products are sold in local retail stores.
 

(Herald file photo)

According to a state-funded center that helps people quit smoking, the warning images are being partially covered on packs with soft covers and not hardcover packs.

The center reportedly suggested a wait-and-see stance toward the alleged violation of the rules, as the protective tape had been used before the rules on warning images on cigarette packs were introduced in Korea.

Except for the soft-cover packs in question, warning images are being applied to all cigarette brands sold in Korea.

(khnews@heraldcorp.com)