Opening doors while operating heating services may result in fines up to 3 million KRW

The center of the front row is Sung Yun-mo, Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy.

[Asia Economy Reporter Moon Chaeseok] The government announced that during the fourth week of this month, identified as the electricity peak period, businesses caught heating with doors open will face fines of up to 3 million KRW.

The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy announced on the 12th that from the 20th to the 23rd, a four-day energy usage restriction measure will be enforced, prohibiting heating operations with doors open.

From December 1 last year to January 29 next year is the winter electricity supply and demand and coal power reduction period, during which active energy demand management will be implemented, especially in the fourth week when electricity peak is expected.

The ministry decided to increase the level of inspections and fines. The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy will form joint inspection teams with local governments and the Korea Energy Agency. If caught heating with doors open during the inspection period, a fine of up to 3 million KRW will be imposed.

Initially, a warning will be issued; if caught again, a fine of 1.5 million KRW will be imposed; the second offense will incur a 2 million KRW fine; the third offense, 3 million KRW; and for four or more offenses, a 3 million KRW fine must be paid.

Business owners who object to the fine can submit a written objection after prior notification within a period of 10 days or more.

The ministry urged the public for active cooperation, emphasizing that heating with doors closed is about 92% more effective in saving heating electricity than heating with doors open. It stressed that this is essential for stable electricity supply during winter.

The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy also stated that it will continue guidance and inspections for those operating with doors open and heating even after the fourth week.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.