Quick Facts
| Legal Status | Since | Adult Use | Access Type | Est. Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Very Limited (Specific Medicines Only) | 2019 (CBD and specific THC medicines) | No | Hospital specialist + Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) approval | High (very limited availability) |
How to Get Medical Cannabis in South Korea
- South Korea has a very limited framework — only specific cannabis-based medicines are approved
- CBD was legalised for medical use in 2019
- Some THC-containing medicines (Epidiolex, Marinol, Sativex) can be imported with MFDS approval
- Access requires a hospital specialist and MFDS authorisation
- Cannabis cultivation and possession remain strictly illegal
Qualifying Conditions
- Epilepsy (Epidiolex)
- MS spasticity (Sativex)
- Cancer pain (Marinol)
- Chemotherapy-induced nausea
Cost & Clinics
South Korea legalised CBD and the import of specific cannabis-based medicines in 2019. Access is extremely restricted — requiring specialist prescription and government approval. Cannabis possession and use remain criminal offences with strict enforcement. South Koreans caught using cannabis abroad can be prosecuted upon return to South Korea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is medical cannabis legal in South Korea?
Very limited — CBD was legalised in 2019 and specific cannabis-based medicines can be imported with government approval. General medical cannabis access does not exist.
Which medicines are available in South Korea?
Epidiolex (for epilepsy), Marinol (for cancer pain/appetite), and Sativex (for MS spasticity) can be accessed with hospital specialist prescription and MFDS authorisation.
Can South Koreans use cannabis abroad?
No — South Korea has extraterritorial jurisdiction over its citizens for cannabis use. South Koreans who use cannabis legally in Canada or elsewhere can be prosecuted upon return to South Korea.
What are the penalties for cannabis in South Korea?
Cannabis possession or use: up to 5 years imprisonment. Trafficking: up to life imprisonment. South Korea has strict enforcement.