South Korea Tightens Vehicle Restrictions Amid Oil Supply Concerns

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Seoul: The South Korean government has announced stricter enforcement of a five-day vehicle restriction system for the public sector, as it moves to address potential oil supply disruptions linked to ongoing tensions in the Middle East.

The Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment said the tightened measures will take effect from Wednesday, with enhanced monitoring of compliance across public institutions. Under the system, vehicles are grouped based on license plate numbers, with each group restricted from operating on a designated weekday.

While the policy has existed for some time, authorities acknowledged it had been loosely enforced. The government will now issue detailed implementation guidelines and introduce penalties for non-compliance. Electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles will remain exempt.

The ministry also urged private companies to voluntarily adopt the system, warning that it could become mandatory if the country raises its oil supply alert to Level 3 under its four-tier national resource security framework. South Korea recently elevated its alert status to Level 2, citing growing uncertainty over crude oil supplies.

In addition, the government plans to introduce broader energy-saving measures. The top 50 oil-consuming companies will be asked to develop reduction plans, with incentives offered to those that meet consumption targets. Public institutions and major corporations will also be encouraged to adjust working hours to ease traffic congestion and improve fuel efficiency.

To further manage energy demand, authorities will ease restrictions on coal-fired power generation on days with low air pollution and expedite the restart of five nuclear reactors currently under maintenance. These steps aim to reduce reliance on liquefied natural gas, which has also been impacted by the Middle East crisis.

The measures reflect Seoul’s efforts to safeguard energy security and stabilise consumption amid rising global uncertainties.