KT&G Dominates South Korean E-Cigarette Market with "Lil" Series

Dec.18.2024
KT&G Dominates South Korean E-Cigarette Market with "Lil" Series
KT&G dominates South Korea e-cigarette market with "Lil" line, predicted to continue success amid fierce competition.

According to a report by N.News on December 17th, since South Korean tobacco KT&G introduced the "Lil Solid" in 2017, they have successively released other e-cigarette devices such as the "Lil Hybrid" and "Lil Able," securing the top position in the South Korean market.

 

Industry insiders expect that the e-cigarette market in South Korea will continue to be highly competitive in 2025, with KT&G's multi-platform product "Lil" maintaining its market advantage.

 

Lil's success is attributed to its multi-platform operating system. Currently, there are three products available in the market: "Lil Hybrid," "Lil Solid," and "Lil Able." The latest releases, "Lil Hybrid 3.0," "Lil Able 2.0," and "Lil Solid 3.0," have been well-received by consumers.

 

KT&G's technological innovation capability is considered a key factor in its success. The company's number of patent applications has been increasing each year, growing from 2250 in 2021 to 3392 in 2023, representing a growth of approximately 51% in just two years. The number of overseas patent applications also saw significant growth, increasing from 1744 in 2021 to 2679 in 2023, more than 1.5 times higher. In 2023, KT&G ranked fourth in the "2023 Korea Corporate European Patent Index" published by the European Patent Office, trailing only Samsung, LG, and SK Group.

 

A spokesperson for KT&G stated,

 

We will continue to provide consumers with satisfaction that meets their expectations through a diverse product line.

 

We welcome news tips, article submissions, interview requests, or comments on this piece.

Please contact us at info@2firsts.com, or reach out to Alan Zhao, CEO of 2Firsts, on LinkedIn


Notice

1.  This article is intended solely for professional research purposes related to industry, technology, and policy. Any references to brands or products are made purely for objective description and do not constitute any form of endorsement, recommendation, or promotion by 2Firsts.

2.  The use of nicotine-containing products — including, but not limited to, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, nicotine pouchand heated tobacco products — carries significant health risks. Users are responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.

3.  This article is not intended to serve as the basis for any investment decisions or financial advice. 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any inaccuracies or errors in the content.

4.  Access to this article is strictly prohibited for individuals below the legal age in their jurisdiction.

 

Copyright

 

This article is either an original work created by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with proper attribution. All copyrights and usage rights belong to 2Firsts or the original content provider. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other form of unauthorized use by any individual or organization is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally accountable.

For copyright-related inquiries, please contact: info@2firsts.com

 

AI Assistance Disclaimer

 

This article may have been enhanced using AI tools to improve translation and editorial efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, inaccuracies may occur. Readers are encouraged to refer to the cited sources for the most accurate information.

We welcome any corrections or feedback. Please contact us at: info@2firsts.com

How AI Is Rewriting the Talent Playbook for the Nicotine Industry: JTI’s Case
How AI Is Rewriting the Talent Playbook for the Nicotine Industry: JTI’s Case
AI is moving from a back-office tool to a core organizational capability in the nicotine industry. Based on JTI’s responses, this 2Firsts feature examines how AI is reshaping talent strategy, internal mobility, decision-making and human accountability as global tobacco companies compete in the shift toward new nicotine categories.
Jun.17
Canada’s Federal Vape Flavor Restrictions Remain Unclear Five Years After Announcement
Canada’s Federal Vape Flavor Restrictions Remain Unclear Five Years After Announcement
Five years after Canada’s federal government announced plans to restrict vaping flavors nationwide, Health Minister Marjorie Michel has not said when or whether the measure will still proceed. In 2021, Health Canada said it planned to limit vaping flavors nationwide to mint, menthol and tobacco, citing evidence that fruity and sweet flavors appeal to youth.
May.11 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Product | JT Upgrades with2 Infused Tobacco Capsules With Double-Size BIG PACK
Product | JT Upgrades with2 Infused Tobacco Capsules With Double-Size BIG PACK
Japan Tobacco Inc. (JT) announced that it will introduce a BIG PACK version of all five tobacco capsule variants designed for its with2 infused tobacco system. Scheduled for release in Japan on August 4, 2026, the refreshed packaging doubles the contents from five capsules and one cartridge to ten capsules and two cartridges while maintaining the same flavors and formulations
News
Jun.26 by 2Firsts Perspectives
ITGA Americas Meeting Calls for Balanced Regulation as Tobacco Growers Warn of Pressure on Farms and Legal Supply Chains
ITGA Americas Meeting Calls for Balanced Regulation as Tobacco Growers Warn of Pressure on Farms and Legal Supply Chains
ITGA said tobacco grower organizations from five Americas countries called for stronger regional cooperation and balanced regulation, warning that restrictive policies could pressure farmers and legal supply chains. The article also provides data on major tobacco-producing countries in the Americas.
Special Report
Jun.02
LOST MARY Launches VIZ With Transparent Wraparound Pod and LED Display
LOST MARY Launches VIZ With Transparent Wraparound Pod and LED Display
LOST MARY announced VIZ on May 6, 2026, describing it as the brand’s first product with a transparent 360-degree wraparound pod.
May.07 by 2FIRSTS.ai
FDA Posts Environmental Assessment for Nicotine Pouches, May Influence Future PMTA Reviews
FDA Posts Environmental Assessment for Nicotine Pouches, May Influence Future PMTA Reviews
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration released a programmatic environmental assessment covering nicotine pouches and other oral nicotine products, concluding that their overall environmental impact is generally minimal.
Regulations
May.22