BAT Launches New Synthetic Vape in South Korea

British American Tobacco on Monday officially launched its synthetic nicotine-based liquid e-cigarette, Nomad Sync 5000, in South Korea, the first market in the world to release the product.

The Nomad Sync 5000, available in sweet “Purple” and refreshing “Cold” flavors, offers up to 5,000 puffs with a liquid capacity of 10 milliliters and a nicotine concentration of 0.9 percent. Priced at around 17,000 won ($12), the product is now available at vape shops nationwide.

BAT Rothmans, the company’s Korean subsidiary, attributed the product’s Korean debut to the country’s regulatory framework, according to media reports.

“South Korea is the only OECD country where synthetic nicotine products are governed separately from natural nicotine products,” a BAT Rothmans official said. “This unique distinction provides a favorable environment for innovation and allows us to responsibly introduce products that meet high industry standards.”

Under Korea’s current tobacco laws, only products derived from tobacco leaves are classified as tobacco, leaving synthetic nicotine products exempt from taxes, health warning labels, advertising restrictions, and sales restrictions to minors.

Despite this regulatory gap, BAT Rothmans emphasized its voluntary compliance with local standards, including displaying health warnings and ensuring branding avoids youth appeal.