Analysis of the legislative process related to the implementation of graphic health warning labels on tobacco products in South Korea

INTRODUCTION: Well-designed health warnings on tobacco packaging enhance cost-effectively public awareness of the risks of using tobacco products. However, many countries have experienced difficulties in implementing pictorial warnings. The purpose of this study is to present the topics that arose during the legislative process that preceded implementation of graphic health warning labels (GHWLs) on tobacco products in South Korea, and discuss the outcomes. METHODS: We used qualitative content analysis to analyze lawmakers’ statements, and those of committee members in meetings that preceded the drafting of the legislative document pertaining to GHWLs in South Korea. RESULTS: In discussions surrounding the adoption of the GHWLs, the main point of contention was the level of disgust induced by pictorial warnings. When discussing how warnings should be inscribed on packaging after adoption of GHWLs, lawmakers disagreed regarding the physical position of the warnings. Because of continuous objections raised by some lawmakers, implementation of GHWLs was delayed, and, when actually introduced, the warnings were toned down. Some lawmakers communicated with tobacco companies; thus the companies participated in the legislative process in South Korea. CONCLUSIONS: To prevent tobacco companies from negatively influencing tobacco control efforts, it is essential that all communications with such companies be publicly disclosed and that the tobacco industry be prohibited from contacting lawmakers involved in the legislative process of tobacco control.