Marijuana Laws
As recorded December 15, 2025 · not verified as current law. Republic of Korea (South Korea) law
Cannabis laws in Incheon follow Republic of Korea (South Korea)’s national law. This city follows the jurisdiction’s cannabis law framework; separate city laws are typically limited.
Recreational cannabis is illegal. Medical use is highly restricted to approved conditions and products. Strict enforcement applies, with significant legal risk.
Quick facts
- Recreational: Illegal
- Medical: Highly limited
- Possession: Strict penalties
- Buying/Selling: Illegal
- Tourists: No tolerance; high risk
Practical guidance
Avoid cross-border transport of cannabis products. Do not assume informal tolerance equals legality.
Law Enforcement
Police were visible around neighbourhoods and parks by car, motorcycle and on foot. Complaints from the public could bring a stop. The prevailing view in the expat crowd was that getting caught could mean prison, with no easy way out for a foreigner.
Where to Buy Marijuana
Incheon itself was a dead end. Locals rarely spoke openly about cannabis and expats were wary. Itaewon in Seoul, a subway ride away, was the exception in this account. Hookah cafés and reggae bars brought together an international crowd. A slow conversation might end with a shared smoke, while asking strangers outright was considered risky.
Marijuana Prices
- Low-grade flower or soapbar: US$30–50 for 1 g.
- Decent flower: close to US$100 for 1 g.
- Average ounces: about US$1,000–1,200.
Types of Marijuana
Whatever turned up. It wasn’t Amsterdam or California.
More Information
Visitors described a small, expensive market and fear of profiling after media coverage blamed foreigners for drug use. There were worries about drug tests and sellers naming customers after arrests. Even many expats who smoked back home left it alone. From the perspective of one traveller who had smoked in at least fifteen countries, Korea was one of the least appealing places to do it.