South Korea to end free disposable plastic cups under new anti-plastic plan

SEOUL, December 17 (AJP) - South Korea plans to end the free distribution of disposable plastic cups at cafes and other food outlets, requiring consumers to pay a fee as part of a broader push to curb plastic waste, the government said on Wednesday.

The Ministry of Environment said the measure would be included in a comprehensive anti-plastic strategy to be released next week. The policy will replace the existing disposable cup deposit system.

Under the new plan, individual businesses will be allowed to set their own prices for disposable cups, but the government will establish a minimum fee reflecting production costs. The ministry said the price is expected to range between 100 and 200 won per cup.

South Korea previously introduced a deposit system that refunded money to consumers who returned used cups, but the scheme was suspended after small business owners raised concerns over administrative burdens. The system was implemented only in limited areas, including Sejong and Jeju Island, drawing criticism over its effectiveness.

Plastic straws will continue to be provided free of charge upon request, the ministry said, despite an existing ban on their use in stores. Enforcement of the ban has been postponed indefinitely under a grace period.

A draft of the anti-plastic strategy is set to be released early next week, followed by a public hearing to gather feedback, the ministry said.

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