"When Will the Red Light Change?"... Expansion of Traffic Lights Displaying Remaining Time

Seoul City to Install 350 Locations Including Myeongdong and Gangnam by Year-End

Traffic lights that display the remaining time of the red signal will be additionally installed at about 300 locations by the end of this year.

On the 15th, the Seoul Metropolitan Government announced that it will expand the installation of 'red remaining time display traffic lights' to a total of 350 locations, including Myeongdong, Hongdae Entrance, and Gangnam Station, by the end of the year to enhance pedestrian safety and convenience. The goal is to create a safe walking environment in Seoul by increasing pedestrian convenience and reducing jaywalking.

Red remaining time display traffic light installed at the crosswalk in front of the Seoul Metropolitan Council./Photo by Seoul City

Currently, red remaining time display traffic lights are being pilot-operated at a total of 8 locations near Seoul City Hall and Gwanghwamun. The expansion sites were selected based on demand surveys from autonomous districts, the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, local police stations, and the city’s own investigations.

A Seoul city official explained, "The red remaining time display traffic lights inform pedestrians not only of the existing green signal but also of the waiting time during the red light, reducing pedestrian frustration and helping efficient movement while preventing jaywalking." However, to prevent pedestrians from starting to cross before the signal changes, the remaining time is not displayed when there are 6 seconds or less left on the red signal.

Citizen satisfaction was also high during the pilot operation period. According to the city, a face-to-face survey conducted over two days in March with 141 citizens showed that 82% were 'satisfied' with the red remaining time display traffic lights, and 74% responded that expansion was necessary. Additionally, 78% said it helped improve pedestrian safety. The main expected effects were improved pedestrian safety (40%), increased convenience (39%), and reduced jaywalking (20%).

Yoon Jong-jang, Director of the Seoul Metropolitan Government’s Transportation Office, said, "The red remaining time display traffic lights are a representative example of innovation in citizens’ convenience and walking environment through a change in everyday thinking. We will continue diverse and proactive traffic policies and support to create a convenient walking environment and ensure safe daily life for citizens."

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