South Korea’s Daily Road Traffic Up 0.9% in 2025, Decade-Long Rise

South Korea experienced a 0.9% increase in its average daily road traffic volume in 2025, marking a continuous upward trend over the past decade. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) released the findings on May 8, 2026, from its annual road traffic volume survey.

According to the survey, the average daily road traffic across the nation reached 16,416 vehicles. This figure represents a slight but steady rise from the previous year, highlighting the growing demand for road infrastructure in the country. MOLIT, a key government agency responsible for national land planning, transportation systems, and infrastructure development, conducts this survey annually to gather crucial data for policy-making.

The consistent increase in traffic volume for ten consecutive years underscores significant shifts in South Korea’s transportation landscape. Factors such as economic growth, urbanization, increased vehicle ownership, and changes in commuter patterns are likely contributors to this prolonged trend. Such data is vital for urban planners, policymakers, and engineers in assessing the current state of national roads and anticipating future infrastructure needs.

Understanding these traffic patterns allows the government to make informed decisions regarding road expansion projects, maintenance schedules, and the development of intelligent transportation systems. It also aids in evaluating the environmental impact of increased vehicle usage and shaping strategies for sustainable mobility in the future.

Source: 국토교통부 — Original Article (Korean)