Motorists required to leave their cars once a week as part of energy-saving efforts
By Han Jun-guPosted : April 8, 2026, 17:28Updated : April 8, 2026, 17:28
A notice limiting cars based on the last digit of license plates is displayed at a parking lot in central Seoul on April 8, 2026. AJP Han Jun-gu
SEOUL, April 8 (AJP) - Starting from Wednesday, motorists are required to leave their cars at home once a week, depending on the last digit of their license plates, as they are unable to use public parking on certain days.
The measure is part of energy-saving efforts amid the prolonged conflict in the Middle East, which has caused global energy supply disruptions as well as soaring fuel prices.
Civil servants and staff at public institutions, who have been subject to a similar measure since March 25, are now required to commute by public transportation every other day.
But to minimize disruption to daily life, exemptions will be granted in about 30 areas near open-air farmers' markets, major commercial districts, and residential zones.
A notice limiting cars based on the last digit of license plates is displayed at a parking lot in central Seoul on April 8, 2026. AJP Han Jun-gu