South Korea Proposes Revised Courier Packaging Rules to Reduce Waste and Improve Operational Flexibility

South Korea has proposed revisions to its courier packaging regulations aimed at reducing excessive packaging waste while providing greater operational flexibility for businesses in the rapidly growing e-commerce sector.

The proposed amendments, introduced by the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment, modify the existing standards governing packaging materials and measurement methods for parcel deliveries. The revisions are designed to make compliance more practical for logistics providers and retailers while maintaining the country’s broader objective of cutting unnecessary packaging waste.

Under the current regulations introduced in April 2024, courier packages must maintain a packaging space ratio of no more than 50%, and shipments are generally limited to a single layer of packaging. These rules apply primarily to companies with annual sales exceeding KRW 50 billion (approximately US$34 million).

The proposed revisions introduce several key changes. Packaging used for fragile items such as glass, ceramics, or clay may be exempt from the restrictions if protective materials are deemed necessary. Additionally, adjustments are planned for parcels packed using automated equipment, reflecting the operational realities of modern logistics systems.

Authorities also plan to introduce incentives encouraging the use of recycled or paper-based packaging materials. When plastic packaging contains at least 20% recycled content, the allowable packaging space ratio would increase from 50% to 60%. Parcels using paper cushioning materials could qualify for an even higher threshold of 70%, acknowledging the additional space sometimes required for protective paper fillers.

Other provisions in the proposed framework include exemptions when multiple products are packaged together for sale or when packaging materials are reused. Small parcels measuring 50 cm or less in combined length, width, and height would also remain outside the packaging space ratio requirement.

The revisions come as South Korea seeks to address growing public concern over excessive packaging generated by the country’s booming courier and e-commerce industries. Government officials say the updated rules aim to balance environmental goals with practical implementation across the logistics sector.

The ministry has opened a public consultation period for the proposal and will continue gathering feedback from industry stakeholders before finalizing the regulatory amendments.