"Smoking Right Before Entering Elevator Makes Me Sick": Note Sparks Outrage Among Smokers

Residents Clash Over Smoking Etiquette in Shared Spaces
Online Reactions Divided on the Controversy

The controversy over cigarette smoke odors in the elevator of an apartment complex in Seoul has intensified as residents exchange heated notes, which are spreading widely on social media. The differing perceptions between smokers and non-smokers regarding etiquette in shared spaces have once again come to the forefront. On January 4, a post appeared on online communities and social media, stating, "There was a dispute via notes over the cigarette smell in our apartment elevator. What is the wise solution?" along with a photo. The post quickly went viral, surpassing 1.5 million views in just one day.

The controversy over cigarette smoke odors in apartment elevators has escalated as residents exchange heated notes, which are spreading widely on social media. Thread follows.

The photo uploaded to social media showed notes attached inside the elevator. One note read, "When you smoke and then get in the elevator, the smell makes it impossible to breathe. I feel like vomiting. Please, have mercy." However, a reply was written above this note, including profanity, stating, "So should I smoke at home then? I already have to be mindful at home, so I smoke outside. I don't care if the smell makes you want to vomit." The reply even asked, "Where do you live? Which unit?" escalating the conflict. Another resident then posted a rebuttal note saying, "Just as you are considerate at home, please be considerate outside as well. You should not cause discomfort to others," further intensifying the debate.

Online reactions to the post were divided. Some commented, "Smokers should avoid taking the elevator immediately after smoking or make efforts to minimize the smell," "The elevator is an enclosed space, so it causes significant discomfort to non-smokers," and "Not smoking at home is not a matter of consideration but a basic rule." On the other hand, others argued, "Smoking outside instead of at home is already being considerate," "Complaining about a smell that lasts only briefly is excessive," and "Non-smokers can use the stairs instead."

This is not the first time conflicts over smoking in apartments have arisen. In the past, disputes have occurred among residents due to secondhand smoke from balcony smoking and lingering odors in hallways and elevators after smoking. Some apartment complexes have established their own rules, such as recommending a waiting period before taking the elevator, campaigns to clean hands and clothes after smoking, or designating the building as a non-smoking apartment.

According to current law, indoor common areas in multi-unit housing are designated as non-smoking zones, but there are no clear regulations to address odors left behind after smoking. As a result, many point out that consideration and communication among residents are more important than legal judgments. One online user commented, "Regardless of whether one smokes, it is important to avoid causing discomfort or harm to others in shared spaces," and added, "Using official communication channels, such as mediation by the management office or notices to residents, rather than notes or public criticism, is a better way to reduce conflicts."