All alcoholic beverages sold in South Korea will be required to carry visual warning labels depicting the dangers of drunk driving and drinking during pregnancy starting next September. According to the health ministry, images of a liquor bottle, a car, and a pregnant woman will become mandatory on soju, beer, and all other alcohol products. The changes aim to ensure consumers recognize the risks before drinking.
The health ministry has announced a revision to the enforcement rules of the National Health Promotion Act, making visual warning images mandatory on all alcoholic products. This follows the legislative amendment to the National Health Promotion Act, which was promulgated in March this year, and the new labeling requirements will take effect on September 19, 2026, to allow preparation time for the alcohol industry.
The warning images will depict a liquor bottle and a car to illustrate the dangers of drunk driving, and a pregnant woman to highlight risks during pregnancy. These will apply to soju, beer, and all other alcoholic beverages, with the aim of ensuring consumers recognize the risks of alcohol consumption before drinking, according to officials.
The initiative introduces visual elements beyond previous text-based warnings to enhance awareness. The six-month grace period after the law's promulgation provides manufacturers time to adjust their packaging.