What are the key driving rules and traffic laws in Korea that differ from other countries?

Korean driving is right-side driving (steering wheel on the left) like the US and most of Europe, but the road culture has some unique quirks worth knowing. Speed limits are strictly enforced via cameras every few kilometers, with heavy fines (40,000 to 100,000 won) for exceeding by even a few km/h. School zones (어린이보호구역) cap at 30 km/h with extra-strict enforcement and doubled fines from 8am to 8pm. Highways are 100 to 110 km/h, urban roads 50 km/h (recently lowered from 60), and side streets 30 km/h.

Key rules to know: U-turns are only legal at marked U-turn signs (유턴), which are common at intersections. Right turns on red are now mostly banned at intersections with stop lines (since 2023 reform), so wait for green even if turning right. Drinking and driving has a 0.03 percent BAC limit (about half a beer), with random checkpoints and 0.08+ resulting in license suspension and possible jail. Parking on yellow lines is illegal with 40,000 won fines, and tow trucks are aggressive in big cities.

Unique Korean things: Bus-only lanes (버스전용차선) are designated by blue lines and operate during rush hours, with fines for cars using them. Hi-Pass (highway toll) is automatic for cars with the chip, otherwise stop at the manual lane. Emergency vehicles get absolute right of way and pulling over is mandatory. Cyclists and scooters often share roads chaotically in cities, especially in Seoul, so check mirrors carefully. Highways have mandatory rest stops (휴게소) every 50km with food courts and clean bathrooms. The Korea National Police Agency website (police.go.kr) has English driving guides. International Driving Permit covers 1 year, then convert to a Korean license at a Driver's License Examination Office. Always carry your license, IDP, and ARC when driving.