The demand for cigarettes in the Republic of Korea and implications for government policy to lower cigarette consumption

The government of the Republic of Korea has become concerned with reducing cigarette consumption, which historically has been very prevalent. This study contributes to the debate over cigarette policies in South Korea, with implications for other Asian countries with similar economic and cultural backgrounds. The authors estimate cigarette demand in South Korea over the period 1960-97, considering various government policies employed to reduce cigarette consumption. Results of the estimation suggest that taxation appears to be a viable means of reducing cigarette consumption, but methods to inform the public about the health hazards of smoking should be reconsidered and strengthened.