If you've ever walked through the bustling streets of Seoul or any major Korean city, you might have found yourself holding an empty coffee cup or a piece of paper for blocks, desperately searching for a place to toss it. For many foreigners visiting South Korea, the extreme lack of public trash cans is one of the most confusing and "exotic" cultural differences they encounter. Why are there almost no trash cans on the streets of a country known for its high-tech infrastructure and cleanliness?
1. The 1990s Strategy: "No Bin, No Trash"
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| Trash Can |
The disappearance of trash cans in Korea wasn't an accident. It started in the mid-1990s with the introduction of the Volume-Based Waste Fee System (Jongnyangje). People were required to pay for waste disposal by purchasing designated trash bags. However, to avoid buying these bags, some people began dumping their household waste into public street bins.
In response, local governments began removing street trash cans based on the logic that "if there is no place to throw it away, people won't bring trash out, and they won't dump household waste illegally." This policy actually had a certain level of success in reducing street litter and encouraging people to take their small trash home, but it created a significant inconvenience for pedestrians.
2. The Modern Shift: 2020s Re-introduction
As the "take-out culture" grew especially with the explosion of plastic coffee cups the lack of bins became a major social issue. Since around 2020, many local governments (like the Seoul Metropolitan Government) have started installing more trash cans again. However, the numbers are still very low compared to other global cities. In some areas, you might still walk for 15-20 minutes without seeing a single one.
3. Pro-Tips: Where to Find a Trash Can in Korea
If you are stuck with trash and can't find a bin, here are the "secret" spots every Korean knows:
- Subway Stations: This is the most reliable place. However, be aware that sometimes the bins are located inside the ticket gates. If you're on the street, look for a subway entrance and head down.
- Bus Stops: In major cities, some modern bus stops have small bins, but many still don't. It's a hit or miss.
- Large Shopping Malls & Department Stores: If you are near a mall like Lotte, Shinsegae, or a large building like Starfield, head inside. They always have well-maintained trash facilities near restrooms or food courts.
- Convenience Stores (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven): Usually, they have bins inside for customers. If you bought something there, you can easily use their trash cans.
Comparison Table: Public Trash Can Availability
| Location Type | Availability | Ease of Use |
|---|---|---|
| General Street/Sidewalk | Very Low | Difficult |
| Subway Station (Underground) | High | Easy (May need to go through gates) |
| Bus Stops | Medium | Varies by District |
| Shopping Malls/Marts | Very High | Very Easy |
| Parks (Han River, etc.) | High | Designated Zones Only |
The lack of trash cans is a unique part of Korean urban management history. While it was designed to keep the streets clean and reduce waste, it remains a challenge for tourists. When visiting Korea, the best habit is to carry a small bag for your own trash or plan your "disposal breaks" around subway stations and malls!
