It has been announced that by the end of next year, vehicles driven by repeat drunk drivers will be equipped with an anti-drunk driving device. This device plays a crucial role in preventing the vehicle from starting when the driver attempts to operate it under the influence. The amended Road Traffic Act containing these provisions is scheduled to take effect after passing through the National Assembly.
Drunk driving has been a persistent issue in South Korea, resulting in accidents and harm to others. Efforts have been made to address this problem and consider various measures to prevent drunk driving. One of these measures is the 'anti-drunk driving device'.
According to the amended Road Traffic Act, individuals with a history of two or more drunk driving incidents within five years must have an anti-drunk driving device installed in their vehicles as a conditional requirement for obtaining or renewing their license. This device is designed to allow the vehicle to start only when the driver's breath test indicates no alcohol. Therefore, if the driver is under the influence of alcohol, they will not be able to operate the vehicle.
Additionally, if a license has been revoked due to drunk driving, even after the disqualification period has ended, the individual must still have an anti-drunk driving device installed in their vehicle for the same duration. This is one of the measures to impose stricter penalties on drunk drivers.
For instance, a drunk driver whose license was revoked in 2024 will be required to have an anti-drunk driving device installed in their vehicle from 2026 for a period of two years. Failing to comply with this measure will result in the individual being penalized for driving without a valid license. Moreover, any attempts by another person to tamper with or dismantle the anti-drunk driving device will be rigorously punished.
Furthermore, the police will conduct regular checks on the proper functioning of the anti-drunk driving device and review the driving records twice a year.
Similar anti-drunk driving devices have already been implemented in major countries abroad, effectively contributing to a reduction in drunk driving incidents. The reason for limiting the installation to those who have had 'two or more drunk driving incidents within five years' is because this group accounts for approximately 40% of repeat drunk driving offenders, which is the highest percentage.
A police official explained, "In practice, the point at which individuals will actually have the anti-drunk driving device installed and be able to drive will be at least two years after being caught for repeat drunk driving offenses, following the minimum two-year disqualification period after the law is enforced."
These measures reflect ongoing efforts to reduce drunk driving accidents and create a safer traffic environment.
