The wet oxidation of organic compounds composed only of C, H, and O, dyes, amides, and water-soluble polymers is discussed to clarify the basic nature of this process. The reactivity of the organic compounds composed of C, H, and O, dyes, and some amides was correlated well with their carbon content in the molecule (C/MW) or carbon content in their skeletal structure (C/ MW＇). This C/MW index can be applied to roughly estimate the behavior of wastewaters containing various organic compounds. Polymers are easily decomposed by the wet oxidation because they can undergo intramolecular hydrogen abstraction in the chain-propagation step. The biodegradability of polymers and amides was improved by wet oxidation treatment, indicating an asset of this process. The function of homogeneous copper salts and the effect of hydrogen peroxide are discussed. The action of Co/Bi composite oxide designed for the treatment of refractory carboxylic acids, Mn/Ce composite oxide for ammonia and other organic compounds, and Ru/CeO2 catalyst for the decomposition of PEG, formaldehyde, etc., is explained. The high potential of Ru and CeO2 as active catalyst components is emphasized.