KT&G

SEOUL – November 09, 2026 -- KT&G launched its heated tobacco device FLEX and four FAIIM tobacco sticks in Kazakhstan in October, extending its overseas Next Generation Products (NGP) business into a market where it has so far sold combustible cigarettes.

FLEX and FAIIM debut in Almaty before wider rollout

FLEX and FAIIM are locally branded versions of lil AIBLE and AIIM, both currently sold in South Korea, adapted for Kazakhstan. Sales initially cover only Almaty, the country's largest city. KT&G plans to expand its local distribution network gradually.

Forum Mall flagship store targets consumer education

KT&G will operate a FLEX flagship store at Forum Mall, a major shopping center in Almaty. The store will offer brand information and customer consultation, with the aim of improving consumer understanding of the products and broadening the brand experience.

Seoul – November 05, 2026 -- KT&G (KRX: 033780) reported record third-quarter operating profit of KRW 530.1 billion, up 13.9% year over year, and raised its planned 2026 dividend 33.3% to KRW 8,000 per share. The company announced the results alongside a new shareholder return plan and business strategy at its Capital Markets Day.

Consolidated revenue rose 4.3% to KRW 1.9052 trillion, also an all-time quarterly high. KT&G attributed the growth to its core businesses and a profitability-focused strategy.

Cannes – September 29, 2026 -- KT&G's ultra-slim cigarette brand ESSE surpassed KRW 1 trillion (approximately USD 700 million) in global sales in 2025, the South Korean tobacco maker announced at TFWA World 2026 in Cannes, France, running September 27 to October 1.

KT&G products now reach 179 duty-free stores across roughly 110 airports worldwide

The company entered the duty-free channel in 1995 with the launch of 88 Light in China. Three decades later, its flagship brands -- ESSE, RAISON, and BOHEM -- hold shelf space at 179 duty-free outlets spanning approximately 110 airports, including facilities in South Korea.