The Korean government has announced the full-scale implementation of a comprehensive resource circulation policy, encompassing reduction of single-use items, recycling, energy conversion, future waste management, and the establishment of a long-term national vision. On June 26, the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment released its 2024 key action plan for the Resource Circulation Bureau, aiming to realize a sustainable, decarbonized circular economy. At the ‘2025 Korea Circular Economy Festival’ held in COEX Magok Convention Center, Seoul, advanced technologies such as remanufactured EV battery packs were showcased. The policy covers a wide range of initiatives, from embedding circular use in daily life to preparing for future waste management.
The Ministry is revising single-use regulations, promoting reusable containers, improving funeral culture, expanding the use of reusable cups in public institutions, and encouraging their adoption in large workplaces. Concrete targets include establishing a recycling system for used clothing, expanding separate collection of paper packs in residential complexes, converting single-use plastic cups to the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) system, and doubling the number of collection bins for waste electronics and batteries to 40,000. The government is also expanding biogas production targets to the private sector, supporting biogas facility expansion, and promoting solid fuel production from livestock manure. Initiatives for future waste include pilot projects for rare earth recovery from telecom equipment and customized management plans for lithium iron phosphate batteries.
The government is introducing Korean-style eco-design standards, differentiating subsidies for material and chemical recycling over thermal recycling, and activating pyrolysis. There are also plans to impose recycling obligations on overseas direct purchase platforms. Special regulatory zones will be established to exempt waste regulations for internal recycling of by-products in industrial complexes, enhancing corporate competitiveness. The first national circular economy master plan will be developed, covering goals and measures for the next decade, with expert forums and stakeholder consultations. Advanced material flow statistics, an AI-based waste information system, and a comprehensive information platform will also be implemented for public convenience.
To drive continuous innovation, the government will develop automated battery dismantling and separation, core material recovery, and eco-friendly hydrometallurgical processes. Demonstration projects for rare earth recovery from permanent magnets in waste electronics are also planned. Ko-Eung Kim, Director of the Resource Circulation Bureau, emphasized that the government aims to ensure a seamless transition to a circular economy, from daily systems to long-term national vision. This policy marks a significant turning point for Korea’s circular economy, involving citizens, businesses, and the government.
This full-cycle resource circulation policy represents a paradigm shift in Korea’s approach to waste management, integrating digital transformation and environmental sustainability. The expansion of EPR, introduction of eco-design, and AI-driven information systems position Korea as a leader in circular economy innovation. Regulatory exemptions and technological support for industries will enhance corporate sustainability and global competitiveness. Continuous monitoring and public engagement will be crucial to ensure these policies deliver tangible benefits and foster a culture of resource circulation.