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Smoking near cultural heritage will be fined

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By Lee Kyung-min

Seoul City Government has set the goal of not repeating the tragedy of Namdaemun.

Those smoking near the cultural property will be fined up to 100,000 won ($90) starting next year, Seoul City Government said Monday.

The city will amend ordinances accordingly.

Preventing both arson and fire by accident are of their concern.

Signs for the smoking-ban will be posted in 94 places by the end of this year.

Entrances and exits, where people usually smoke, are primary spots, an official said.

Places such as public bathrooms and garbage cans will also be included.

Posting signages of smoking bans are mandatory near wooden properties or places with fire risk according to the cultural heritage protection law.