Booming market

At least seven new cigarette brands were launched in North Korea during the past year amid increasing demand, reports the Seoul-based online newspaper Daily NK. Including the most recent introductions, there are now more than 40 cigarette brands available in the market.
Meanwhile, the State-run Korea Central Television describes those who smoke in the morning and evening as “unconscionable” or “very unhealthy,” while some TV advertisements criticize them for making the environment “unpleasant.”
The price of cigarettes ranges from kpw2,900 ($3,22) to kpw5,400, with the most expensive cigarette brand, Amrokkang, selling for between kpw5,200 and kpw5,400.