South Korea weighs driving curbs as crude oil prices rise
The government may restrict private car use if oil prices reach $130 a barrel. This would be the first nationwide driving curb imposed since the 1991 Gulf War.
South Korea is weighing the implementation of nationwide driving restrictions for the general public as global oil prices continue to rise. The potential policy shift comes as authorities seek to manage energy demand amid supply strains linked to the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
Finance Minister Koo Yun-cheol indicated on Sunday that the government could expand vehicle use restrictions beyond public institutions if crude prices reach the $120–$130 per barrel range. Currently, prices are fluctuating between $100 and $110. If expanded to the general public, the measures would mark the first nationwide driving curbs since the 1991 Gulf War, when a 10-day vehicle rotation system was enforced.
