Traffic Rules & Driving Laws for Foreigners in Korea
Driving in South Korea as a foreigner can be a convenient way to explore the country, especially outside major cities. However, it’s important to understand Korea’s traffic rules and driving laws to ensure your safety and legal compliance.
This guide covers foreign driver’s license conversion, international driving permits, road regulations, and penalties for violations—everything you need to legally and confidently drive in Korea.
Can Foreigners Drive in Korea?
Yes! Foreigners can legally drive in South Korea under certain conditions:
Short-term visitors (less than 90 days): Can drive using an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued from their home country.
Long-term residents (more than 90 days): Must either convert their foreign license to a Korean one or take the Korean driver’s license exam.
💡 Tip: Always carry your ARC (Alien Registration Card), passport, and valid driver’s license or IDP when driving.
International Driving Permits (IDP)
If you’re staying in Korea temporarily, you can use your IDP (based on the 1949 Geneva Convention). Make sure it:
☑ Matches your passport name
☑ Is valid for at least one year
☑ Is carried along with your original driver’s license
❗ Note: Not all countries are recognized. For example, IDPs from China are not accepted.
3. Converting a Foreign Driver’s License
For long-term residents, converting your license may be more convenient than taking the full test. Here's how to do it:
Requirements:
☑ Valid driver’s license from your home country
☑ Passport & ARC
☑ 3 passport-size photos
☑ Notarized translation of your license (in Korean)
☑ Health check (basic vision/hearing test)
Some countries, such as the USA, UK, Canada, Germany, and Australia, may be exempt from written and road tests under reciprocity agreements.
Korea’s Traffic Rules at a Glance
🚗 Speed Limits:
Urban areas: 30–60 km/h
Expressways: 100–120 km/h
School zones: 30 km/h strict limit (heavily enforced)
🚦 Traffic Signals:
Follow standard red/yellow/green lights.
Right turns on red are allowed after a full stop unless signs prohibit.
📵 Phone Use:
Hands-free only. Using your phone while driving can result in heavy fines.
🛑 Drinking and Driving:
Zero tolerance. Legal limit is 0.03% BAC.
Penalties include license suspension, heavy fines, or imprisonment.
🧯 Mandatory Equipment:
Ensure your car contains:
Warning triangle
Fire extinguisher
First aid kit
Traffic Fines and Violations
Foreigners are subject to the same penalties as Korean citizens. Common violations include:
Violation Fine
Speeding (20km/h over) ₩60,000+
Running a red light ₩70,000+
Illegal parking ₩40,000+
No seatbelt ₩30,000
Using phone ₩60,000
Fines can be paid online or at local police stations. Failure to pay may affect visa renewals.
Parking Rules in Korea
Parking is limited in cities like Seoul and Busan. Use:
Official paid parking lots (공영주차장)
Apartment complex parking (permit may be needed)
Do not park:
Near crosswalks
In front of bus stops
In fire lanes
🚨 Towed vehicles can be tracked via the local gu-office (구청) website.
Renting a Car in Korea
You can rent a car with an IDP and a valid passport. Popular rental companies include:
🚗 Lotte Rent-a-Car
🚗 SK Rent-a-Car
🚗 KT Kumho
Make sure to:
☑ Choose insurance coverage
☑ Understand GPS navigation (many are in Korean)
☑ Confirm fuel policy
Road Signs and Navigation
Most road signs include Korean and English. Useful navigation apps include:
KakaoMap
Naver Map
T Map (Korean only)
💡 Some GPS systems only recognize Korean spellings, so having addresses in Hangul helps.
Tips for Safe Driving in Korea
Be cautious of motorcycles on sidewalks and between lanes.
Yield to pedestrians, especially in crosswalks.
Follow directions from traffic cameras, which are widespread.
Avoid driving during rush hour in cities (7–9 AM & 6–8 PM).
Driving in Korea as a foreigner is entirely possible—but only if you follow the rules. Whether you’re using an International Driving Permit, converting your license, or renting a car, staying informed about Korea’s traffic laws will keep you safe and stress-free. Be mindful of local regulations, respect speed limits, and don’t drink and drive.
Have questions about licenses or traffic fines? Visit the Korea Road Traffic Authority (KoROAD) website or consult your local DMV-equivalent office in Korea.
⚠️ Traffic laws are strictly enforced, and penalties may vary by violation. It is highly recommended to review official traffic guides or attend a driving orientation for foreigners.
