The government has enacted an amendment bill that prohibits the use of disposable plastic bags at large marts and supermarkets.

The government has enacted an amendment bill that prohibits the use of disposable plastic bags at large marts and supermarkets. The Ministry of Environment announced that there will be a grace period of 40 days for people to become aware of the new law. The average Korean uses 414 plastic bags each year, which is twice the EU average. 2,000 large-scale stores nationwide along with 11,000 supermarkets will be directly affected by the ban. In addition, 18,000 bakeries will be required to charge customers for the use of plastic bags. Recycling centers will also receive grants to expand their capabilities to recycle more forms of plastic waste.