[Changes in 2022] Internet Game Shutdown Policy Abolished · Pet Dog Leash Must Be Within 2m

Gaming Allowed at Night Upon Request by Individual or Parents
Expansion of Roads Designated as 'Children, Elderly, and Disabled Protection Zones'
Luggage Delivery Service Implemented at Gimhae and Cheongju Airports

[Sejong=Asia Economy Reporter Joo Sang-don] Starting next year, youths under 16 will be allowed to play internet games during late-night hours (0:00?6:00). This follows the government's decision to abolish the so-called 'Internet Game Shutdown System,' which has been in effect since 2011 to prevent game overindulgence, in respect of youths' self-determination rights. The scope of roads that can be designated as 'Children, Elderly, and Disabled Protection Zones' will be expanded, and when walking dogs, leash length will be limited to within 2 meters.

The game shutdown system, which restricts internet game access for youths under 16 during late-night hours, will be abolished starting January 1 next year. Instead, it will be unified into a 'Game Time Selection System,' allowing youths under 18 or their legal guardians to voluntarily set gaming hours as desired.

From February next year, when walking dogs, the length of leashes and harnesses must be kept within 2 meters. Additionally, in common areas inside residential buildings, safety measures must be taken to prevent dogs from exhibiting threatening behavior, such as holding the dog directly or grabbing the neck part of the leash or the handle of the harness.

The scope of roads that can be designated as 'Children, Elderly, and Disabled Protection Zones' will also be expanded. Previously, only certain sections of roads around children-related facilities such as elementary schools and kindergartens could be designated as protection zones, making it difficult to designate playgrounds frequently visited by children as protection zones.

However, starting April next year, facilities and places where children frequently visit, as defined by local ordinances, can also be designated as protection zones. While previously only certain sections around welfare facilities for the elderly and disabled could be designated, from now on, all welfare facilities for the elderly and disabled can be designated as protection zones.

Additionally, in August next year, the luggage delivery service at domestic airports will be expanded to major airports including Gimhae and Cheongju. This aims to actively respond to the increase in domestic air travel, such as to Jeju Island, replacing the sharp decline in overseas travel demand due to COVID-19. Passengers wishing to use the service can apply via a dedicated luggage delivery application by 8 PM the day before departure, then check in their luggage at the departure airport with the airline. The agency will retrieve the luggage at the arrival airport and deliver it to the passenger’s destination (accommodation).

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