A sign promoting tumbler sales at a Starbucks in Seoul, May 6. Yonhap
Seoul expanded its discount program for customers bringing their own cups to cafes on Monday, as it opens up participation to more stores in a bid to further curb disposable cup waste and promote eco-friendly habits.
The Seoul Metropolitan Government said customers using their own cups at participating stores can save at least 500 won ($0.33) per drink, with stores discounting a minimum of 100 won and the city subsidizing 400 won.
The city first implemented the initiative through a pilot program in 2023 and has since recorded around 260,000 personal cup uses through 2025, helping foster a culture of sustainability. This year, the city eliminated the Seoul Pay membership requirement, opening participation to a broader range of stores.
At locations affiliated with Seoul Pay, the city's mobile payment platform, customers can choose between an immediate on-site discount or accumulated rewards points. Participating stores are listed onthe Smart Seoul Map, an online service that visualizes city information geographically.
To encourage public participation, the city will encourage stores to hold a monthly "Tumbler Day," where customers who bring their own cups will receive an additional 2,500 won discount per drink, up to 50 drinks per store daily.
Store sign-ups opened earlier this month and interested stores may apply by emailing [email protected], with application forms availableon the Seoul city websiteandat cafe.naver.com/ecotumbler.Stores qualifying under the Enforcement Decree of the Food Sanitation Act, including snack bars, general restaurants, bakeries and on-site food processors, are eligible to apply. Seoul Pay affiliation is not required.
Participating stores must offer a minimum 100 won self-discount for personal cup use and have a point-of-sale system set up to apply the discount immediately at checkout.
“Reducing just one disposable cup we use every day is the start of spreading a culture of resource circulation and plastic-free living,” said Kwon Min, director-general of the city's Climate and Environment Bureau. “We will continue to expand tangible benefits and participation opportunities so that residents can easily practice this in their everyday lives.”
Source: Korea Times News
