Bags aren’t free here.
Since 2022, large supermarkets and convenience stores in Korea cannot give out free single-use plastic bags. Cafés are next. Pack a foldable tote — your wallet and the planet both win.
Quick facts
Where the rule applies
| Place | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Convenience stores (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven, eMart24) | No free plastic bags. Buy a paper bag at the counter, or take items by hand. |
| Large supermarkets (E-Mart, Lotte Mart, Homeplus) | No free bags. Reusable bags sold near checkout (~₩500–1,500). |
| Bakeries (Paris Baguette, Tous les Jours) | Plastic bags banned since 2022; small bread bags still free. |
| Cafés & chain coffee | Disposable cup ban rolling out — expect a deposit or BYO cup discount. |
| Traditional markets & small shops | Plastic bags still allowed; many vendors will still hand them out. |
What to do
- 1
Pack a foldable tote
Anything that crushes into a pocket works. Convenience-store “market bags” cost ~₩1,500 if you forget yours — but the cute Korean illustrated totes at Daiso are ₩2,000–5,000 and double as a souvenir.
- 2
Carry small change
A 100-won coin solves the convenience-store paper-bag problem and tips a market vendor for a free bag swap. T-money cards work too.
- 3
Bring your own coffee cup
Starbucks, Twosome, and most cafés give a ₩300–400 discount for tumblers. Some chains will fill any clean cup you bring.
Tips
- Trash bags are different. Korea uses district-specific paid jongnyangje bags for trash — don’t confuse them with shopping bags.
- Recycling is enforced. Most accommodations sort plastic / paper / food waste / general — your host will usually post a guide.
Sources
Korea.net — supermarket plastic ban
Korea Times — disposable-cup rules
Updated April 2026.