Is cannabis legal in South Korea?

Medical only (prescription)✕ Tourists can buy✓ Locals w/ prescription

South Korea allows only specific approved cannabis-based medicines (e.g. Epidiolex, Sativex, Marinol) via the state Korea Orphan & Essential Drug Center, on prescription. There is no dispensary retail, and recreational cannabis carries severe penalties — including for citizens who use it abroad. Not a tourist channel.

How to buy: A physician applies to the Korea Orphan & Essential Drug Center for an approved cannabinoid medicine.

Pharmacies

THC: Only specific approved cannabinoid drugs; recreational use is a serious crime.

We could not confirm the legal status of cannabis in South Korea. Check the official local rules before acting.

Official sources

No verified official sources are linked yet for this location. Rules shown as “Not confirmed” until sources are reviewed.

Last reviewed
Next scheduled review

This is a plain-language informational summary, not legal advice. Rules can change and may differ by municipality or venue. Check the linked official sources before acting.