Smokers to be ousted from Seoul’s riverside parks

Eleven riverside parks along the Han River are due to be designated tobacco-smoke-free zones as early as July, according to a story in The Korea Times quoting a Seoul Metropolitan government announcement.

Smoking bans at the riverside parks became possible after the city council revised its ordinance last year.

The riverside parks, which cover more than 40 square km, have been a haven for smokers, so the new regulations are expected to meet with strong opposition.

But the government said the priority would be to make the transition as smooth as possible, and that it was considering all options.

One such option might be the installation of smoking booths.

One thing is certain, though: violators will be liable to a fine of WON100,000 (US$92), after a grace period of three to six months.