The Korea Survival Guide #17. Staying in an Airbnb? Master Korea’s Strict Trash & Recycling Rules!
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| Recycling is one of the most confusing parts of staying at an Airbnb in Korea. Where should this snack bag and cup noodle bowl go? Let’s find out! |
The Korea Survival Guide #17. Staying in an Airbnb? Master Korea’s Strict Trash & Recycling Rules!
Hello to all travelers exploring Korea! This is KorVibe, your guide to living and traveling like a local.
Nowadays, many travelers prefer staying in an Airbnb, a guesthouse (Pension), or a friend’s house instead of a hotel. While this gives you a more authentic experience, it comes with a big responsibility that surprises many foreigners: Waste Disposal.
Korea has one of the world’s most advanced and strict recycling systems. If you don't follow the rules, the property owner (host) could face heavy fines, or you might find yourself in an awkward situation with neighbors. Don't worry, though! In this guide, we will teach you everything you need to know to handle trash like a pro.
1. Why is Trash Disposal So Important in Korea?
In a hotel, you can just throw everything into one bin and let the housekeeping staff handle it. However, in a local residential area:
Legal Responsibility: Local governments can fine residents up to 1 million KRW for incorrect disposal.
Cultural Etiquette: For Koreans, recycling is a basic social manners. Doing it right shows respect for the local culture.
Sustainability: Korea aims to be zero-waste. By participating, you are contributing to a greener planet.
2. The Secret Word: "Jongnyangje" (Volume-Based Bags)
The most important thing to know is that you cannot use just any plastic bag or paper box for your trash. You must use Authorized Garbage Bags (Jongnyangje Bag).
General Waste (Non-recyclable)
Everything that cannot be recycled must go into these specific bags.
Where to buy: You can buy them at any convenience store (CU, GS25, 7-Eleven) or local supermarkets.
Important: You must buy the bag specifically for the District (Gu) you are staying in. A bag bought in Myeong-dong (Jung-gu) cannot be used in Hongdae (Mapo-gu).
How to ask: Simply say to the clerk: "Sseuregi bongtu juseyo" (Please give me a garbage bag). Usually, a 10L or 20L bag is perfect for a short stay.
3. The Tricky Part: Food Waste (Eumsingmul Sseuregi)
Korea recycles food waste into animal feed or fertilizer. This is where most foreigners get confused. The "Golden Rule" is: "Can an animal eat this?"
What is NOT Food Waste (Throw these in General Waste):
Hard Shells: Eggshells, shells from clams, crabs, or shrimp.
Bones: Chicken bones, beef/pork bones.
Hard Seeds: Seeds from peaches, mangoes, or cherries.
Tea Bags/Coffee Grounds: These are considered general waste.
Tip: If it's too hard for a pig or a cow to eat, it’s not food waste! Make sure to drain all liquid before putting food waste in its designated bag or bin.
4. How to Recycle Like a Local (The 3-Step Rule)
Recycling bins in Korea are usually divided into Paper, Plastic, Cans, and Glass. To do it correctly, follow the "Empty, Rinse, Separate" rule.
Plastic & PET Bottles
Empty & Rinse: Make sure there is no leftover drink or food.
Remove the Label: This is the most important step! Peel off the plastic label from the bottle and put the label in the "Vinyl" bin.
Flatten: Squash the bottle to save space.
Paper & Cardboard
Remove Tape: Before recycling a cardboard box, remove all plastic tape and shipping stickers. Throw the tape in the general waste.
Flatten: Always fold the boxes flat.
Vinyl (Plastic Wrappers)
Clean snack bags, ramen wrappers, and plastic shopping bags can be recycled together in the "Vinyl" (비닐) bin. If they are dirty with food and can't be washed, put them in the general waste.
5. Where and When to Throw It Away?
The location depends on your type of accommodation:
Apartment Complexes: There is usually a central recycling center. Most are open 24/7, but some have specific "Recycling Days." Ask your host!
Villas/Houses: Usually, you leave your bags in front of the main door or at a designated spot on the street. This is typically done after sunset (6 PM - 9 PM).
Pensions (Guesthouses): You are usually expected to sort your trash and take it to a designated area near the entrance before you check out.
6. Pro-Traveler Checklist
Before you leave your Airbnb, check these four things:
[ ] Did I ask my host where the trash collection spot is?
[ ] Did I buy the correct "Jongnyangje" bag from a nearby convenience store?
[ ] Did I separate bones and shells from the food waste?
[ ] Did I remove all labels from my plastic water bottles?
Conclusion: Be a Respectful Traveler
It might seem complicated at first, but once you do it a couple of times, it becomes easy. Following these rules is the best way to live like a local and show your love for Korea. Your host will surely give you a 5-star guest review!
If you're unsure, don't hesitate to take a photo and send it to your host via the Airbnb app—they will appreciate your effort to do things correctly.
Enjoy your stay in Korea, and stay tuned for more tips in our Korea Survival Guide!
