Sharp Increase in Traffic Accidents on the Day Before Chuseok Holiday... National Police Agency Implements Special Traffic Management

by Lim Chunhan

Published 11 Sep.2024 12:00(KST)

Highway Traffic Accidents 'Frequent in the Afternoon'

It has been found that traffic accidents and fatalities significantly increase the day before the Chuseok holiday.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

According to the National Police Agency on the 11th, an analysis of traffic accident statistics over the past five years showed that the day before the Chuseok holiday saw 40% more traffic accidents and over 10% more fatalities than usual. Drunk driving accidents were recorded to be more than 20% higher than usual on both the day before and the first day of the holiday.

Highway traffic accidents occurred most frequently on the Gyeongbu Line, the Seoul Metropolitan Area 1st Ring Expressway, and the Seohaean Line, which are heavily used during the holidays. By time of day, the afternoon period (12 PM to 6 PM) accounted for 45%, about 10% higher than usual.

The National Police Agency plans to conduct special traffic safety management in cooperation with related organizations to prepare for this year’s Chuseok holiday and proactively respond to prevent public inconvenience caused by traffic accidents and congestion.

Before the holiday begins, police forces will be intensively deployed to traditional markets, large supermarkets, and public cemeteries. Additionally, starting from the 13th, when the homecoming rush intensifies, three-dimensional traffic management on the ground and in the air will be implemented focusing on highways and connecting national roads. Furthermore, acts that hinder traffic safety and flow during the holiday period, such as reckless driving, designated lane violations, and driving on the shoulder, will be monitored and controlled using unmarked patrol cars and vehicle-mounted unmanned enforcement equipment.

Han Chang-hoon, Director of the National Police Agency’s Traffic Safety Bureau, stated, “As holiday culture changes recently, with more people enjoying leisure activities besides visiting their hometowns, more detailed efforts are needed to ensure traffic safety by region.” He added, “Please be especially careful not to suddenly accelerate out of impatience due to congestion or drive recklessly despite fatigue.”