Guide to Driving In South Korea - Drive Safe in South Korea

All passengers must wear a seat belt. It is possible to be fined W30,000 if you fail to comply with this. 

The following documents should be carried with you at all times when driving in South Korea:

• A valid driving licence
• A valid IDP (International driving permit)

It is also advised to carry with you:

• Proof of insurance
• Proof of ID such as a passport
• A V5C certificate

The minimum age for driving in South Korea is 18 years of age for cars. You can be 16 years of age to drive a motorcycle. 

​It is illegal to use speed camera warning devices. If you are caught using one at a police check it will be confiscated and you could receive a fine.

Fines can be awarded for:
 

• Speeding
• Signal violation
• Using a mobile phone
• Using a bus lane

The law requires that children under the age of 6 use a car seat. However many Koreans let their children sit in a car without a car seat. 

It is advisable to carry all of the correct car insurance documents with you when driving in South Korea. 

It is against the law to drink and drive in South Korea and it is a serious offence. The permissible amount is no more than 0.05% blood alcohol level. 

There are no specific laws for towing in South Korea but just make sure your intentions are clear and that the tow bar or tow rope is suitable.

Speed Limit	Type of Road
60km/h	Normal Roads
80km/h	Roads over 5 lanes
30-90km/h	Motorways
50-100km/h	Highways (4 lanes)
40-80km/h	Highways (2 lanes)

Using a phone whilst driving in South Korea is illegal. It is ok to use a hands-free set. Fines can be issued for failure to comply. 

Generally speaking the traffic light rules are the same as in the UK, however some drivers can treat the red- light as more of a suggestion than a rule. 

There are toll roads on South Korea’s motorways. These can be paid for with cash or card. The Hi-Pass system allows you to automatically drive through the toll area without stopping. The fee charged would depend on the type of road you have used, the type of vehicle and the distance travelled.