When you walk into a restroom, there's sometimes a small trash can next to the toilet, with a sign that says "Toilet paper goes in the trash can." Even international students at first ask, "Isn't this unsanitary?" she asked. Koreans have done it this way since childhood, so we've rarely thought about the reason separately. ## It Used to Be Like This In old buildings, the pipes were narrow, and the flushing power of the toilet was weak too. A lot of toilet paper in the old days didn't dissolve well in water. If you flushed that kind of paper down the toilet, the pipes could easily get clogged and water would overflow onto the floor. So "toilet paper goes in the wastebasket" became a habit in every household. In public restrooms, small shops, and old guesthouses, this habit is still alive today. ## Things are changing now In newly built buildings and renovated hotels, more and more places have signs saying you can throw it in the toilet. The plumbing has gotten better, and more places now use toilet paper that dissolves easily in water. Habits don't change easily, though. So there are many places that keep a wastebasket even where you're allowed to flush the paper. It's hard to say that all of Korea is like that, or that none of it is. ## What to do when you're not sure First, read the notice above the toilet or on the inside of the door. Many places also have pictures. If there's no sign but there is a trash can, it's safer to put it in the trash can. Never put wet wipes, sanitary pads, or diapers in the toilet, wherever you are. If you're not sure, say to the staff at your accommodation, "Can I throw toilet paper in the toilet?" and ask them. The staff get this question often, so they'll smile and tell you.