Fined $40 for Smoking or Getting Drunk at This Tourist Spot – Traveling is meant to be fun and relaxing, but there’s one thing you don’t want on your trip — a surprise fine. Several popular tourist destinations are getting stricter about public behavior, especially when it comes to smoking and public drunkenness. https://wearegntlmen.com
One of the most talked-about examples right now is Jeju Island in South Korea, where local authorities can issue fines of up to 50,000 won (about $40 or Rp 600,000) if you’re caught smoking in prohibited areas or drunk and disorderly in public.
Let’s break down why this rule exists, what exactly it means for travelers, and how you can enjoy your trip without accidentally breaking the law.
Fined $40 for Smoking or Getting Drunk at This Tourist Spot?
Why These Rules Exist
In the past two years, Jeju Island has seen a sharp rise in foreign visitors. While great for the economy, this tourism boom has also created problems: overflowing trash bins, cigarette butts littering streets, drunk tourists causing disturbances, and even viral videos of visitors urinating on public beaches.
In response, Jeju’s local government introduced a Tourist Behavior Guide and launched a 100-day enforcement campaign. During that time, police recorded over 4,800 violations, including jaywalking, smoking in non-smoking zones, and public drunkenness.
The goal isn’t simply to punish visitors — it’s to educate and protect the island’s environment and local community so that everyone can enjoy the island responsibly.
What the Rules Say
Here’s a quick summary of what tourists need to keep in mind when visiting Jeju:
| Violation | First Offense | Maximum Fine |
| Smoking in restricted areas | Warning / education | 50,000 won (~$40) |
| Public drunkenness (causing disturbance) | Warning / education | 50,000 won (~$40) |
| Littering | Warning | 30,000 won |
| Jaywalking | Warning | 30,000 won |
| Public urination | Warning | 50,000 won |
Good to know: First-time offenders are usually given a warning instead of an immediate fine. However, repeat violations can result in an on-the-spot ticket — so don’t take chances.
Similar Rules in Indonesia: Malioboro as a Case Study
This isn’t just happening in South Korea. Indonesia has its own version of strict public-order rules.
In Malioboro, Yogyakarta, the entire area has been designated as a No-Smoking Zone under Regional Regulation No. 2 of 2017. Here’s what you should know:
- Violators can face fines of up to Rp 7.5 million or even be taken to a minor criminal court.
- Before implementing strict penalties, local authorities had already educated and warned more than 4,000 violators throughout 2024.
- To make it fair for smokers, the city has provided three designated smoking areas — near Abu Bakar Ali parking area, north of Plaza Malioboro, and on the third floor of Pasar Beringharjo.
This approach shows that the goal is not to ban smoking altogether but to keep the main tourist street clean and comfortable for all visitors.
Practical Tips for Travelers
To avoid unnecessary fines and have a stress-free trip, follow these simple tips:
- Check local regulations before you travel
Every destination has its own rules. Take five minutes to check the official tourism site or local news so you know what’s allowed. - Use designated smoking areas
In Jeju and Malioboro, there are clearly marked smoking zones. Stick to those areas to avoid trouble. - Drink responsibly
Enjoy your soju or beer at a bar, restaurant, or approved area — not on the street or in a quiet neighborhood late at night. - Bring a small trash bag
This simple habit will save you from littering fines and keep public spaces clean. - Respect local culture
Remember that you’re a guest. Being mindful of how locals live goes a long way in making your trip more enjoyable.
Why This Matters
These rules may sound strict, but they actually protect your experience as a traveler. Cleaner streets, safer pedestrian zones, and more peaceful public spaces benefit everyone.
Think about it: would you rather spend $40 paying a fine — or spend the same amount enjoying local food, souvenirs, or a ticket to a unique cultural show?
Final Thoughts
The purpose of Malioboro’s smoking ban and Jeju’s $40 fine is not to deter visitors. They’re reminders that responsible tourism is a shared effort.
By simply following basic rules — don’t smoke where it’s prohibited, don’t get drunk in public, don’t litter — you can enjoy a stress-free vacation while respecting the community that hosts you.
So before you pack your bags, spend a few minutes reading up on local regulations. Both your wallet and your future self will appreciate it.
