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South Korea Addresses Plastic Bag Shortage Amid Energy Fears

3/31/2026

26 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

South Korea's energy minister Kim Sung-whan addressed plastic bag shortages after purchases nearly fivefold to 2.7 million last week amid energy-supply fears from the Middle East conflict.
He said there is sufficient supply and capacity for recycled materials, and price hikes are not expected.
Major retailers have limited bag purchases, and the government may allow general plastic bags for waste if needed.

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Story summary

South Korea's energy minister Kim Sung-whan addressed plastic bag shortages after purchases nearly fivefold to 2.7 million last week amid energy-supply fears from the Middle East conflict.
He said there is sufficient supply and capacity for recycled materials, and price hikes are not expected.
Major retailers have limited bag purchases, and the government may allow general plastic bags for waste if needed.