Objective : In this study, we focused on estimating the burden of premature death in Korea caused by smoking using the YLL(years of life lost due to premature death) measurement. Methods : First, we determined parameters: such as age-specific standard life expectancy, age on death, sex, and cause of death by analyzing the national death certificate data and life table collected during 1997. These were provided by the National Statistical Office. Secondly, we estimated the age group- specific years of life lost due to premature death by employing the standard expected years of life lost(SEYLL) measurement. Thirdly, the burden of premature death caused by smoking was estimated using the YLLs measurement which was developed by the global burden of disease study group. Fourthly, We calculated the risk related to smoking using the population attributable risk. Results : The following results were obtained in this study: 1) Premature death that is attributable to smoking in males could be prevented in 60.9%(513,582 person-year) by non-smoking. 2) The burden of premature death by smoking for female was prevented to 17.7%(513,582 person-year) by non-smoking. Conclusion : We found that the YLL method employed in this study was appropriate in quantifying the burden of premature death. This provides a rational basis for planning a national health policy regarding premature deaths caused by smoking and other related risk factors.