The South Korean government announced on April 1 it will expand a mandatory five-day vehicle rotation system to a two-day scheme in the public sector starting next week to curb energy demand amid supply strains from an escalating Middle East conflict. The five-day system for the private sector will remain voluntary. The measure aligns with raising the resource security crisis warning to Level 3, the second-highest 'orange' level.
SEOUL, April 1 (Yonhap) -- The government said Wednesday it will expand a mandatory five-day vehicle rotation system to a two-day system in the public sector starting next Wednesday to curb energy demand amid supply strain caused by an escalating conflict in the Middle East, according to the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment.
Under the expanded system, vehicles are restricted from operating every other business day based on the last digit of their license plate numbers. Odd-numbered plates operate on odd-numbered dates, while even-numbered plates operate on even-numbered dates.
Electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles, those carrying people with disabilities or pregnant women, vehicles used by employees facing commuting difficulties via public transport, and those deemed essential by public institution heads are exempt. The ministry estimated exempt vehicles account for about 25 percent of the total. Public parking lots operated by government agencies will implement a separate five-day rotation system.
The ministry said mandating the system for the private sector will be considered cautiously, factoring in energy supply, public inconvenience, and economic impact. Finance Minister Koo Yun-cheol earlier indicated the government could extend restrictions on passenger cars beyond public institutions if crude oil prices rise to around $120 to $130 per barrel from the current $100 to $110 range.
