Guide to Korean waste separation for foreigners: Volume-based waste bags, food, and recycling

One of the most confusing things for foreigners who come to Korea for the first time is Waste separationYes. The rules are pretty strict, and you could be fined if you throw it away incorrectly. However, it is not difficult if you know the principle, so I will kindly organize it by type.

Basics of separate recycling in Korea

Korea wastes a lot ① General waste ② Food waste ③ Recycling ④ Bulky wasteDivide it into The key is ‘Pay as you go’Therefore, general and food waste are subject to Pay-as-you-go bagYou have to put it in and throw it away.

General waste – in volume-rate bags

Waste that is not recyclable or food Pay-as-you-go bag (garbage bag)Put it in and throw it away. The envelope is Convenience store/martYou can buy it at Envelopes are different depending on the region (district/city) I have to buy bags from that neighborhood. Just say the capacity, such as “Please give me a 20 liter pay-as-you-go bag.”

Separate food waste!

Food waste is divided into general waste and must be separatedI do. exclusive Volume-based food bagme Recycling bin exclusively for food (RFID device)Throw it away. However, Bones, shells, seeds, etc. are not food but general waste.Please be careful as it is often classified as .

Separate recycling and disposal

Plastic, paper, glass, cans, vinyl (Styrofoam), etc. Separated by typeand dispose of it through recycling. PET bottles Peel off the label, empty the contents, and squeezeIt's good if you do it. Rinse cleanly and collect them by type for easy disposal.

Large furniture and home appliances are ‘bulk waste’

Bed, sofa, refrigerator, etc. large wasteYou can't just throw it away. Report at the community center or district office website/app and purchase a sticker (fee)You must attach it and place it in a designated location.

Beware of discharge days, locations and fines

Each apartment and villa Discharge day, time, locationIn many cases, the price is set, so please check the instructions when moving in. If you violate separate recycling or do not use volume-rate bags, finemay be charged. If you are confused, the quickest way is to ask a neighbor or the management office.

It may seem complicated at first, but you will get used to it in a few days. Correctly separating waste is a small etiquette of living in Korea and a great practice for the environment!