Abstract
As the range of tobacco products diversifies, the perception that “tobacco=cigarette” remains unchanged, which calls for changes in tobacco control policies. This study focuses on identifying the types and characteristics of tobacco products besides cigarettes available and used in Republic of Korea (ROK), as well as anticipating products that are likely to enter the country in the future. The study investigated the official websites and social media channels of major tobacco manufacturers and analyzed recently sold electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) by visiting offline stores. New tobacco products have been launched using marketing messages like odor reduction and reduced harm, while smokeless tobacco products are sold in various types. Tobacco companies are using “smoke-free” expressions to describe the lower risk of new tobacco products compared to conventional cigarettes. The devices of heated tobacco products provide a cleaner and more convenient smoking experience, with a growing number of flavors. E-cigarettes have become very diverse, with over 40 types of devices and 200 types of liquids sold in a single store, classified according to the method of inhaling, nicotine content, and flavor and aroma. Future tobacco products anticipated in ROK is “nicotine pouch” which is similar to snus and contains nicotine powder instead of tobacco leaves. The emergence of such new tobacco products will bring changes in the tobacco use behavior of Korean smokers who frequently use multiple tobacco products, and as there is a possibility that new health hazards may occur as a result, regulatory policies should be prepared by creating scientific evidence such as health impact studies.