Governor Kim Jin-tae Stresses Reducing Senior Traffic Accidents Through Traffic Safety Education

Visit to Chuncheon Northern Senior Welfare Center
Distribution of "Senior Driver On Board" Stickers and Safety Training
Annual Increase in Traffic Accidents Involving Drivers Over 65 Highlights Need for Preventive Education

Kim Jin-tae, Governor of Gangwon Province, visited the Chuncheon Northern Senior Welfare Center on the 29th, ahead of the Chuseok holiday, to participate in a traffic safety education session for senior drivers.

A view of Gangwon Provincial Government Office. Provided by Gangwon Provincial Government.

This training was organized to prevent traffic accidents involving drivers aged 65 and older. The number of traffic accidents involving drivers in this age group in the province has been increasing each year, from 1,303 cases in 2022 to 1,548 cases in 2024.

The session was led by an officer from the Gangwon Provincial Police Agency and focused on safety rules for drivers and pedestrians, particularly aspects that senior citizens may easily overlook. Following the training, an event was held in the welfare center parking lot to attach "Senior Driver On Board" identification stickers to vehicles.

According to a survey by the Korea Transportation Safety Authority in February 2025, 93% of the general public expressed a willingness to yield to vehicles displaying the "Senior Driver On Board" sticker, and 65% of senior drivers reported that the sticker contributed to improved safety, confirming the effectiveness of the policy.

Governor Kim Jin-tae emphasized the importance of the training, stating, "Those who participated in today's session will be able to continue driving safely in the future."

He added, "While cars are an essential means of transportation for seniors, it is also important to make responsible decisions in consideration of the social atmosphere. If you feel that your driving is not what it used to be, it may be time to consider returning your license."

The provincial government plans to continue implementing comprehensive measures to protect traffic-vulnerable groups such as senior drivers, children, and pedestrians, and to create a safer traffic environment. These measures include expanding the distribution of "Senior Driver On Board" stickers, supporting license returns for elderly drivers, and promoting regular traffic safety education.

Meanwhile, before the training, Governor Kim also participated in a meal service volunteer activity at the welfare center, spending time with the senior citizens.

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