You may compare different driving licenses against each other for visual clarity:
Apply for an International Driver License for Korean-speaking countries.
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North Korea
- International Driving License has no legal status.
- North Korea drives on the right side of the road.
- When driving in cities, the speed depends on which lane you are in. There are three speed limits: 40 km/h, 60 km/h and 70 km/h for the first, second and third (if available) lanes respectively.
- Roads in North Korea are almost empty. Very few people can afford to buy a car. Thus, if you come to North Korea, you will see only military people and state employees behind the wheel. Cyclists and public transport prevail in North Korea.
- The third lane from the right (if not for turning) is often not used. The second lane is used for overtaking the vehicles in the first lane.
- In general, road conditions are quite good due to very low traffic. However, in the countryside, there are no surfaced roads. Mountain roads are dirty, dusty and unfortunately unpaved.
- Traffic lights operate only in Pyongyang. The traffic is managed by traffic guards.
- Local drivers tend not to look in rear-view mirrors. Thus, if a driver wants to overtake another driver, he starts to horn actively. Otherwise, a driver in front of him won’t see anything.
- Be careful on zebra crossings. In most cases, North Korean drivers won’t give you the way.
- Always buckle up.
- In North Korea, you are not allowed to drive a private car late in the evening and on the weekends.
- North Korea is a safe country. If you go to North Korea, you will have your own guide and driver. You can choose either to take a taxi or a bus. However, you won’t have a chance to drive a car yourself.
- You are prohibited to drink and drive in North Korea.
South Korea
- International Driving License is recognized.
- International Driving License is required.
- Driving in South Korea is on the right side of the road.
- Seat belt is a must. Otherwise, you will be fined up to KRW 30,000 which is equal to $30.
- The maximum permitted speed is 30-80 km/h on urban roads, 60-80 km/h on rural roads and 80-120 km/h on highways.
- The minimum age to drive in South Korea is 18. If you want to rent a car, you must be at least 21.
- Hands-free kit is a must.
- The maximum allowed drink drive limit is 50 mg per 100 ml of blood.
- In South Korea, you will be fined in case of: overrunning; red lights running; texting and talking behind the wheel; driving in the bus lane.
- According to the law, children under the age of six, must be transported in an appropriate child seat. Local drivers allow their children to travel with no car seat.
- You can turn to the left only if you see a corresponding left arrow signal.
- There are a lot of surveillance cameras in South Korea. Stick to the permitted speed limits.
- Road signs in South Korea are written in both Korean and English.
- Seoul: https://youtu.be/jfI4ui7kuus
