South Korea, known for its vibrant culture, technological innovations, and stunning landscapes, is often a destination of choice for tourists and expats alike. If you’re planning to visit or move to Korea, one aspect you may be curious about is which side of the road they drive on. The answer is quite simple – in South Korea, like in many other countries around the world, they drive on the right side of the road.
However, it’s not uncommon for travelers and newcomers to have questions about driving customs in different countries. This blog post will not only delve into the driving habits in South Korea but also touch upon various related topics, such as driving in other countries, the safety aspect of left-hand and right-hand drive, and interesting historical facts behind driving customs. So, fasten your seatbelts and join us on this informative journey as we explore the ins and outs of driving in Korea and beyond.
What Side Does Korea Drive on
Driving in Korea: Left or Right
Are you planning a trip to Korea and wondering which side of the road you should be driving on? Well, fear not, my fellow traveler! In this guide, we’ll unravel the mystery and enlighten you about the driving habits of the land of K-pop and kimchi.
An Escape from the Norm: Right-Sided Roads
While most countries drive on the right side of the road, Korea decided to take a slightly different path. In Korea, vehicles drive on the right side of the road. So, if you come from a country where you’re used to driving on the left, it’s time to switch things up!
Why Did Korea Choose the Right Path
Now, you might be wondering why Korea chose to be different. Well, it turns out there’s a historical reason behind it. Back in the day, during the Japanese colonial rule, Japan introduced right-hand traffic to the Korean Peninsula. As a result, when Korea gained independence after World War II, the practice continued, and driving on the right side became the norm.
The Transition Period: Adjusting to the Unfamiliar
If you’re a visitor from a left-side driving country, you might find it a bit challenging to adapt to driving on the right side. But worry not, my adventurous friend! Koreans are used to accommodating foreign drivers, and there are plenty of resources available to ease this transition.
Staying Safe: Tips for Driving in Korea
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable driving experience in Korea, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
1. Familiarize yourself with local regulations
Before hitting the road, make sure you’re familiar with Korean traffic laws. Knowing the rules and regulations will help you navigate the roads with confidence and avoid any legal troubles.
2. Take it slow and steady
Driving in a new country can be overwhelming, so take your time to acclimate yourself to the local driving culture. Observe how other drivers behave, and remember to stay calm and patient.
3. Use GPS navigation systems
Using GPS navigation systems can be a real lifesaver when driving in an unfamiliar place. Make sure you have access to reliable navigation tools to help you find your way through the bustling streets of Korea.
4. Be mindful of pedestrians
As a responsible driver, it’s important to prioritize the safety of pedestrians. Pay close attention to crosswalks and always yield to pedestrians to maintain road harmony.
Embracing the Unexpected: The Joy of Driving in Korea
Driving on the right side in Korea might be a change from what you’re used to, but it’s also an opportunity to embrace something different and exciting. Remember to keep an open mind, follow the rules, and enjoy the adventure of exploring Korea’s beautiful roads.
So, there you have it! Now you know which side of the road to drive on in Korea. Embrace the change, be safe, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the charming streets of this amazing country!
FAQ: What Side Does Korea Drive On
What side do Japanese drive on
In Japan, people drive on the left side of the road. This is a common practice in many countries, including the United Kingdom, Australia, and India. It can be a little confusing for visitors from right-hand drive countries, but don’t worry, you’ll get the hang of it!
Are Korean cars LHD or RHD
Korean cars are right-hand drive (RHD). Just like in Japan and the United Kingdom, the steering wheel is on the right-hand side of the car. So if you’re accustomed to left-hand drive (LHD) vehicles, driving a Korean car may take a little getting used to.
Is driving in Korea difficult
Driving in Korea can be intimidating for foreigners, especially if you’re used to driving on the right side of the road. However, with some patience and understanding of local traffic laws, it’s definitely doable. Just remember to be extra cautious and stay alert to the different driving customs.
Which countries drive on the right side of the road
Many countries, including the United States, Canada, China, and most of Europe, drive on the right side of the road. This means that the steering wheel is located on the left-hand side of the vehicle.
Is the USA left-hand drive
Yes, the United States is a left-hand drive (LHD) country. This means that the majority of vehicles in the USA have their steering wheels on the left-hand side.
Why does Australia drive on the left
Australia, like many former British colonies, drives on the left-hand side of the road. This practice dates back to the British colonization period when they brought their road traffic customs to their colonies.
Why do Japan drive on the left
The tradition of driving on the left in Japan dates back to a time when samurais roamed the streets with their swords. Since most samurais were right-handed, they preferred passing each other on the left to avoid knocking each other’s swords.
What is the drinking age in Korea
The legal drinking age in Korea is 19 years old. Keep in mind that this applies to the consumption of alcohol in public places. Please drink responsibly and don’t drink and drive!
When did the UK start driving on the left
The United Kingdom has been driving on the left-hand side of the road for centuries. The practice can be traced back to the Middle Ages when knights would ride on the left side of the road to have their right hands free for combat.
Is right-hand drive legal in South Korea
Yes, right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles are legal in South Korea. However, they need to undergo modifications and meet specific requirements to be imported and registered.
Is it safer to drive on the left or right
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on various factors such as road conditions, driver behavior, and infrastructure. Both left-hand drive and right-hand drive countries have their own safety measures in place to ensure a smooth flow of traffic.
Which country drives on the left side of the road
Countries like the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, India, and South Africa drive on the left-hand side of the road. It’s fascinating to see how traffic customs can differ from one country to another!
Can you turn right on red in Korea
No, you cannot turn right on red in Korea. Unlike in some countries, where right turns on red lights are allowed if there is no oncoming traffic, you must wait for a green light to make a right turn in Korea.
Why does Korea drive on the right
Korea switched from driving on the left to driving on the right in 1945 when it was under Japanese occupation. The change aimed to align Korea’s traffic customs with those of its neighboring countries and to improve road safety.
Why do Americans drive on the right
Driving on the right in the United States can be traced back to the colonial era when settlers from Europe brought their driving customs with them. Since most settlers were right-handed, it made sense for them to sit on the left side of the carriage to have their right hand free for whipping the horses.
Why do British drive on the left
The practice of driving on the left in the United Kingdom dates back to the days of horse-drawn carriages. Coaches used to have their drivers sitting on the right rear horse, so it became customary to drive on the left in order to have a better view of oncoming traffic.
Which country has the safest roads
According to various studies and statistics, countries such as Sweden, Norway, and Switzerland are often ranked among the countries with the safest roads. These countries have stringent traffic laws, excellent infrastructure, and a strong emphasis on driver education.
Can tourists drive in South Korea
Yes, tourists can drive in South Korea, provided they have an International Driving Permit (IDP) and meet the requirements set by the Korean government. Just make sure to familiarize yourself with local traffic rules and road signs before hitting the road.
Why driving on the left is better
Driving on the left or right is mainly a matter of convention and historical factors. There is no definitive evidence that one side is better than the other. However, driving on a specific side allows for consistency and predictable traffic patterns, which can contribute to overall road safety.
Does Thailand drive on the right
Yes, Thailand drives on the left-hand side of the road. This means that the steering wheel is located on the right-hand side of the vehicle, and traffic flows on the left side of the road.
Does China drive on the left
No, China drives on the right-hand side of the road. Like the United States and many European countries, China follows a right-hand drive (RHD) system.
When did Canada stop driving on the left
Canada switched from driving on the left to driving on the right in the 1920s. The change aimed to align Canada’s traffic customs with those of its neighboring countries, including the United States.
When did Sweden switch to driving on the right
Sweden made the switch from driving on the left to driving on the right on September 3, 1967. This monumental change, known as Dagen H (H Day), required extensive planning and road signage modifications to ensure a smooth transition.
