역사적 고찰을 통해 본 사회 가치 및 환경 변화와 청소년 담배사용: 일제강점기 미성년자금연법의 제정 및 시행 과정을 중심으로

Recently, the implementation of tobacco control policies, including the prohibition of adolescent tobacco use, has been challenged by the introduction of novel tobacco products. This has re-normalized tobacco use, despite control measures, such as the expansion of smoke-free areas, increased tobacco taxes, reinforcement of health warnings, and other deterrents being increasingly enforced in Korea. This study reviews the recent history of tobacco use and control in Korea to understand how changes in social norms and the environment affect the awareness of tobacco control policies and tobacco affordability, especially for adolescents. In the mid-Joseon dynasty, tobacco use was prevalent among adolescents and adults due to the lack of knowledge and awareness of the dangers of tobacco use, the economic benefits of tobacco agriculture, the lack of a comprehensive control plan, and other activities driven by government. However, with the increase in scientific evidence on its harmful health effects and recognition of the need to prohibit adolescent tobacco use in society, the problem of tobacco use was acknowledged, and a regulatory law was enacted. In particular, the redefining of social norms, including discouraging the custom of early marriage and changing the definition of underage, reduced tobacco affordability and outlawed adolescent tobacco use. Based on past experiences, adolescent tobacco use should be prohibited with systematic control policies and multisectoral approaches in society. We could begin the tobacco endgame in Korea by the process of tobacco de-normalization.