The Ultimate Trash Guide: How to Recycle in Korea (Don't Get Fined!)

Korea takes recycling very seriously. If you throw a banana peel in the wrong bin, you (or your landlord) could face a fine.

For travelers coming from countries with looser rules, the Korean system can be terrifying. You need to buy specific colored bags for specific items.

Here is the simple breakdown to save you from stress.

1. General Waste (The White Bag - "Jongnyangje")

• What goes in: Tissues, wrappers, dirty plastic, bones (chicken/beef), eggshells.

• The Rule: You MUST buy a specific "District Trash Bag" from a convenience store (CU, GS25). You cannot use a random black plastic bag.

2. Food Waste (The Yellow Bag)

• What goes in: Leftover rice, fruit peels, vegetable scraps.

• The Rule: Anything an animal could eat is food waste. Hard pits, bones, and shells are NOT food waste (put them in General Waste).

3. Recyclables (Clear/Transparent)

• Items: Plastic bottles (remove labels!), glass, cans, paper.

• The Rule: Usually, these don't need a special paid bag. You just separate them into the building's bins.

The "Officetel" Advantage

If you stay in a small Airbnb villa or house, you have to buy these bags yourself and leave them on the street at specific times. It is a hassle.

However, if you stay in a Short-term Rental (Officetel) recommended by LiveAnywhere:

• Recycle Room (Bunri-sugo-jang): Most big buildings have a designated trash room in the basement or first floor.

• No Timing: You can usually drop off trash anytime.

• Easier Sorting: Just bring your recyclables to the room and put them in the big bins. No need to buy street bags for recycling.

Don't let trash ruin your trip.

Choose accommodation that makes daily living easy.