In particular, the impromptu smoking area of the cigarette tree has previously been a matter of concern for student unions of the College of Political Science and Economics (PSE), as apparent in their 2023 campaign material. The document proposed the installation of a smoking booth in the shape of a semicircle, with an opening facing the opposite side of the obligatory passage behind the PSE building. Alternatively, it suggested, another spot in the proximity of π-Ville could host the new structure. However, such measures are yet to be implemented.

Student Union Takes Action

In order to address the will of the majority, KUSU surveyed the opinions of 1,200 students on the necessity of smoking booths and their potential location last year. As expected, the results showed a stark preference for three areas – the back of the PSE building, People’s Square, and the Science and Engineering Library. On September 16, KUSU posted the decisions made on the basis of the survey and an internal evaluation, outlining their final solution to the issue.

Firstly, the statement elucidated that situating a smoking booth behind the PSE building would encounter formidable hurdles due to topographical constraints. The dearth of conveniently accessible electrical facilities in the vicinity mandates reliance on adjoining buildings. However, given the intricate and unfeasible nature of the terrain, the associated expenses would surge to three or potentially four times the standard outlay for a smoking booth.

Secondly, KUSU explained that introducing a smoking booth within People’s Plaza would pose multiple risks. This primarily stems from the square’s configuration, characterized by its open layout on all four sides, which unavoidably subjects pedestrians to the risks of second-hand smoke inhalation. Furthermore, the presence of such structures could potentially give rise to safety concerns, particularly during the hosting of sizable public events such as the KU May Festival Week, also known as Daedongjae. On a positive note for users of smoking booths, KUSU announced the installation of a new structure in front of the KU sculpture on the Science and Engineering Campus. To ensure proper ventilation, a fan will be used to prevent odors from entering the interior. Additionally, an official smoking area will be established near Tiger Plaza and the International Studies Hall in place of the impromptu cigarette tree; the alley behind the PSE building will in fact be transformed into a resting spot for all students to enjoy.

Public Opinion and Concerns

Opinions among KU students regarding the new proposal remain markedly varied, indicating that the approach taken by KUSU may have had little impact on the current state of affairs. Kim San (‘20, Spanish Language and Literature) conveyed to The Granite Tower (GT) that given the existence of numerous spontaneous smoking spots throughout the campus, the aggregate count of smoking booths might fall short of meeting the needs of their intended users. Giorgia Patti (’21, International Studies) added that the sight of several students smoking in front of a public entrance, as the new smoking area will allow, might in fact compromise the academic atmosphere and public decorum. 

In summary, the issue of smoking on campus transcends mere inconvenience, eliciting valid concerns regarding air quality, health, and overall safety. KUSU has embarked on a journey to tackle this concern, most notably through the proposition of installing additional smoking booths to regulate and limit smoking areas. Nevertheless, the reception of this idea has prompted a spectrum of reactions, highlighting the intricate challenge of finding a middle ground between accommodating smokers’ preferences and safeguarding the comfort of non- smokers on campus.