Navigating Cannabis Legality: South Korea's Medicinal Use Legalization and the Entertainment World

• In Event: Reefer Madness in East Asia: Cannabis Criminalization in China, South Korea, Japan, and Taiwan

Abstract

This paper provides a nuanced examination of South Korea's evolving stance on cannabis legalization, particularly within the context of its entertainment industry. Despite historically strict drug laws, South Korea has recently made strides towards permitting limited medicinal cannabis use. Utilizing qualitative analysis of legislative documents, policy reports, and media sources, this study investigates the socio-cultural factors driving this policy shift. It delves into the motivations behind the legalization of medicinal cannabis, including considerations of public health, international trends, and shifting societal attitudes towards cannabis within the entertainment sector. Moreover, the paper explores the regulatory frameworks established to govern medicinal cannabis use and the challenges encountered in implementation and enforcement. By focusing on South Korea's approach to cannabis regulation in the entertainment realm, this paper contributes to a deeper understanding of drug policy dynamics in East Asia. It underscores the importance of considering cultural context and industry-specific implications in discussions surrounding cannabis legalization and reform efforts.

Author

• William Andrew Hayes, Gonzaga University