Funeral halls in South Korea have changed how they serve food, the shift already having a measurable impact. At Samsung Medical Center in Seoul, disposable paper plates and cups have vanished from dining tables. Visitors are now served warm meals in thin, white reusable bowls.
Samsung Medical Center was the first major hospital in the country to introduce a “no disposables” policy at its funeral hall. After several months of testing reusable tableware, the hospital reduced disposable waste by more than 80%. From 2023 to October 2025, five hospitals in Seoul that adopted reusable tableware reduced plastic and paper waste by a combined 522 tons.
The transition initially raised concerns about hygiene and the added burden of cleaning. However, responses have been largely positive. Many mourners say reusable tableware feels more respectful and considerate during an emotional time. After use, the bowls are sent to a professional washing facility, where they undergo multiple stages of cleaning and high-temperature sanitization before being returned.
Environmental experts hope the reusable system will spread nationwide. So far, the facilities that have adopted the system have shown that waste reduction can be achieved without sacrificing comfort or hospitality. Even small changes can lead to meaningful environmental gains.