N※N

Seoul's Public Restrooms Now Require Ads for Toilet Paper

  //stocks-investing.news-articles.net/content/202 .. -restrooms-now-require-ads-for-toilet-paper.html
  Published in Stocks and Investing on Saturday, February 7th 2026 at 8:42 GMT by People
      Locale: Not Specified, UNITED STATES

Seoul, South Korea - February 7th, 2026 - A seemingly mundane act - using a public restroom - has become a point of contention in Seoul, as a pilot program requiring users to watch advertisements in exchange for access to toilet paper continues to generate both praise and outrage. Launched in early 2026, the initiative, initially reported by Reuters in 2024, is now fully operational in several public restrooms throughout the city and is drawing increased scrutiny as its impact on citizens and potential expansion are considered.

The core concept is simple: before a visitor can dispense toilet paper, they must first view a 30-second advertisement displayed on a small screen adjacent to the dispenser. A button activates the ad, allowing users to pause and replay - a concession seemingly made to address initial concerns about being rushed while needing to use the facilities. The Seoul Metropolitan Government, the driving force behind the program, defends it as a pragmatic solution to two pressing issues: reducing wasteful toilet paper consumption and alleviating the financial burden of maintaining public restrooms.

"We are constantly seeking innovative ways to improve public services while being fiscally responsible," explains Park Ji-hoon, a spokesperson for the Seoul Metropolitan Government. "Toilet paper waste in public restrooms is a significant problem. This system incentivizes mindful usage and generates revenue that can be directly reinvested into restroom upkeep, cleanliness, and even the addition of more facilities in underserved areas."

The revenue model is based on advertising sales, with local businesses and national brands vying for screen time. Initial reports suggest the program is already proving financially viable, generating enough income to cover the cost of the ad-dispensing units and contributing a surplus towards general maintenance funds. However, critics argue that the financial gains come at the cost of personal privacy and convenience.

"It feels deeply intrusive," says Kim Min-seo, a frequent user of public restrooms in Seoul's bustling Myeongdong district. "I understand the need for funding and reducing waste, but is this really the solution? I'm already bombarded with advertising everywhere I go. To be forced to watch one just to use the bathroom feels like a step too far. It's turning a basic human need into a commercial transaction."

The debate extends beyond mere annoyance. Civil liberties groups are raising concerns about the potential for data collection. While the current system does not track individual users, the technology could be adapted to do so, raising questions about privacy and potential misuse of personal information. These groups are urging the Seoul government to establish clear guidelines and regulations regarding data collection and usage should the program be expanded.

Furthermore, the program raises questions about accessibility. For individuals with cognitive impairments or disabilities, the requirement to process an advertisement before accessing toilet paper could pose a significant challenge. Advocacy groups are demanding accommodations for vulnerable populations, such as offering alternative, ad-free dispensers.

The success of the pilot program has attracted the attention of cities worldwide. Representatives from Tokyo, London, and New York have reportedly expressed interest in similar initiatives. Several companies are already developing advanced versions of the ad-dispensing technology, including units with interactive screens offering games or news updates in addition to advertisements. Some proposals even include tiered access: free access with a short ad, or premium access to toilet paper without an ad for a small fee.

However, the Seoul experience highlights the importance of careful consideration and public discourse before implementing such programs. The line between innovative solution and intrusive practice is often blurred, and a failure to address legitimate concerns could lead to widespread public backlash. The coming months will be critical in determining whether Seoul's advertising restrooms are a sustainable model for the future, or a cautionary tale about the commodification of everyday life.