South Korea to Ease Traffic Levy for Small Businesses, Markets

South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) has announced significant relief for traditional markets and small business owners regarding the traffic congestion levy. Set to take effect around March 31, 2026, the policy aims to alleviate financial burdens and support these vital economic sectors.

The traffic congestion levy (교통유발부담금) is an annual charge imposed on facilities that generate substantial vehicle traffic. Its purpose is to deter private car use, manage urban congestion, and fund public transportation initiatives. By reducing this levy for traditional markets and small businesses, the government aims to bolster their competitiveness and operational stability, recognizing their importance to local communities and economies.

Under the new regulations, eligible traditional markets and small businesses will benefit from several key measures:

• Up to 70% Reduction: A significant cut in the annual traffic congestion levy, providing substantial financial relief.
• Flexible Installment Payments: Businesses can apply to pay the levy in installments, spreading the cost over time.
• Extended Payment Period: The deadline for payment will be prolonged, offering more time for businesses to settle their dues.

In a bid to enhance urban traffic management, an additional 10% reduction will be granted to businesses that actively provide real-time parking information to the government. This incentive encourages data sharing, which can help improve parking availability and traffic flow for customers accessing these businesses.

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, through its Lifestyle and Transportation Welfare Division, expects local government offices to release detailed application procedures for these benefits in the near future. This forward-looking initiative underscores the government’s commitment to supporting the backbone of the local economy by easing operational costs for thousands of traditional market vendors and small enterprises nationwide.

Source: 국토교통부 — Original Article (Korean)