Daejeon, KoreaTips for Expats Driving in Daejeon
Summary: Driving in a new country can be daunting. These tips offer insight into what to expect when driving in Daejeon.
1. Understanding the Driving Culture
Driving in Daejeon, like many other parts of Korea, can be a bit chaotic for those not used to it. Korean drivers are known for their aggressive driving style, often changing lanes without signaling and speeding. It's important to stay alert and cautious at all times. Also, be aware that traffic rules are not always strictly enforced, so don't be surprised if you see locals breaking them.
2. Choosing the Right Car
Compact cars are recommended for driving in Daejeon due to the city's narrow roads and heavy traffic. Smaller cars are easier to maneuver and park. However, if you plan to travel outside the city frequently, a larger car might be more comfortable.
3. Parking in Daeonjeon
Finding parking in Daejeon can be challenging, especially in busy areas. Most parking lots are small and spaces are tight. Parking fees vary depending on the location, but they can be quite expensive in popular areas. It's advisable to use public transportation when possible to avoid parking issues.
4. Driving with an International License
Foreigners can drive in Korea with an International Driving Permit (IDP) for up to one year. After that, you will need to obtain a Korean driver's license. Make sure your IDP is issued by a country that Korea recognizes.
5. Obtaining a Korean Driver's License
To get a Korean driver's license, you will need to pass a written test, a practical driving test, and a physical examination. The written test is available in multiple languages, including English. You can take the practical test in a foreign language, but the instructions will be basic and limited. It's advisable to learn some basic Korean driving vocabulary before taking the test.
6. Navigating Korean Roads
Most road signs in Korea are in both Korean and English, but some may only be in Korean. It's a good idea to learn some basic Korean words and phrases related to driving. Also, consider getting a GPS navigation system that supports English.
7. Dealing with Accidents
If you get into an accident, call the police immediately and do not move your car until they arrive. It's also important to contact your insurance company as soon as possible. If you're not fluent in Korean, try to find someone who can help you communicate with the police and the other party involved in the accident.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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