No purchase cap on waste bags, Lee says

Apr 02, 2026, 09:38 am

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Cheong Wa Dae is seen with the national flag flying on Dec. 28, a day before the presidential office’s return. / Reporter Park Sung-il

Lee Jae-myung on April 1 instructed officials not to impose purchase limits on government-designated trash bags, amid concerns over supply disruptions.

During an emergency economic inspection meeting, Lee directed the minister of climate, energy and environment to avoid restricting purchases and instead manage distribution through regional adjustments, according to a written briefing by the presidential office.

A senior official later clarified that there are currently no plans to limit purchases, adding that 28,000 tons of Russian naphtha had recently been secured, helping stabilize supply conditions.

The clarification came after remarks by Environment Minister Kim Sung-hwan, who suggested in a YouTube broadcast that temporary per-person sales limits — similar to those used during mask shortages — might be necessary until supply stabilizes.

The presidential office quickly moved to correct the statement. “The minister appears to have misspoken about possible purchase restrictions,” the official said. “The president’s directive was to coordinate supply by region, as conditions may vary locally. There will be no overall shortage or purchase limits.”

At the same meeting, Lee also instructed the ministries of oceans and foreign affairs to ensure the safe passage of 26 vessels currently in the Strait of Hormuz and to explore alternative routes, including shipments via the Red Sea, if requested by shipping companies.

He emphasized a proactive approach across government, urging ministries and agencies to respond to the national situation with an “all-court pressing” mindset — a metaphor for full-scale, coordinated action.

#Lee Jae-myung #garbage bags shortage #waste disposal bags