People Power Party Requests Government to Postpone 'Disposable Cup Deposit System'

[Asia Economy Reporter Jang Hyowon] On the 18th, the People Power Party requested the government to postpone the implementation of the disposable cup deposit system scheduled for the 10th of next month.

On the 1st, a coffee shop in downtown Seoul has both mugs and disposable cups placed together. The Ministry of Environment plans to enforce a ban on the use of disposable cups inside stores starting from the 1st. Photo by Yoon Dong-ju doso7@

The disposable cup deposit system requires customers to pay a 300 won deposit along with the beverage price when purchasing drinks in disposable cups at franchise coffee shops and fast food outlets, and then receive the 300 won back upon returning the cup.

Seong Iljong, the chairman of the Policy Committee, issued a statement on the day, saying, "Due to the economic downturn caused by COVID-19 over the past three years, there is a high possibility of unintended damage to small business owners and small franchise representatives," and pointed out, "From the consumer's perspective, if cups are not returned, it will have the effect of raising coffee prices, resulting in an increase in dining-out costs."

He added, "We have officially requested the Ministry of Environment to promptly revise the enforcement decree to postpone the implementation of the system, designate a guidance period, and take immediate administrative measures such as not imposing fines."

However, Chairman Seong also conveyed that he agrees with the deposit system for collecting and recycling disposable cups as it aligns with the Yoon Suk-yeol administration's national agenda of promoting a circular economy and carbon neutrality, and that it must be implemented.

On the same day, Representative Lee Junseok, while taking a special KTX bound for Gwangju to attend the May 18th commemoration ceremony, met with Minister Lee Young of the Ministry of SMEs and Startups to express concerns about the system's implementation.

Representative Lee posted on Facebook, "It is harsh for franchise store owners to lose nearly 300 won in price competitiveness and compete with independent cafes," and stated, "The party's Policy Committee will prioritize reviewing this issue to ensure that small business owners do not bear excessive burdens."