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How to throw away plastic bags and snack wrappers in Korea

비닐봉지 · 과자 봉지binilbongji · gwaja bongji

Short answer: Plastic bag and film recycling (비닐류); or, depending on its condition, general waste bag (rules vary by district).

Where it goes

Plastic bags and film비닐류

Or: General waste bag 종량제 봉투 — see the steps below.

  1. Empty it and shake out crumbs.
  2. Rinse off food if needed.
  3. Collect plastic film together in a clear bag so it does not blow away.

In Seoul, small or slightly dirty pieces are accepted as long as they are empty. If food will not wash off, use a general waste bag (Yeonsu-gu).

Check your district. This item is handled differently in some cities and districts. Your building notice or district office website has the final word.

About this bin

Plastic bags and film are recycled for free: empty, rinse off food and collect them together in a clear bag. Read the full guide →

Ask in Korean

Show this to the building manager or a neighbour: 이거 어디에 버려요? — “Where do I throw this away?”

Sources

Last checked October 13, 2026. Rules can differ by district.

Rules in your city

Collection days, times and large-waste booking differ by city and district.

Also in vinyl

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