Tips for Expats Driving in Busan
Summary: Driving in a new country can be daunting. These tips offer insight into what to expect when driving in Busan.
1. Understanding the Driving Culture
Driving in Busan, like many Asian cities, can be a bit chaotic compared to Western standards. Traffic rules are often loosely followed, and drivers can be aggressive. It's important to be alert and cautious at all times. Also, be prepared for heavy traffic during peak hours.
2. Car Recommendation
Compact cars are recommended for driving in Busan due to the city's narrow roads and heavy traffic. Smaller cars are easier to maneuver and park. However, if you have a family or need more space, consider a mid-size car.
3. Parking Situation
Finding parking in Busan can be challenging, especially in downtown areas. Many buildings have limited parking spaces, and street parking is often not an option. Parking fees can also be quite expensive. It's advisable to use public transportation or taxis when going to crowded areas.
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 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 also convert your foreign license to a Korean one if your home country has a reciprocal agreement with Korea.
6. Use of Navigation Apps
Navigation apps like KakaoMap and Naver Map are very useful when driving in Busan. They provide real-time traffic updates and accurate directions. However, they are primarily in Korean, so you might need some basic Korean language skills to use them effectively.
7. Regular Vehicle Maintenance
Regular vehicle maintenance is crucial due to the city's hilly terrain and heavy traffic. Make sure to check your car's brakes, tires, and engine regularly to ensure safe driving.
8. Respect for Pedestrians
Respect for pedestrians is a must when driving in Busan. Always yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and be extra cautious in residential areas and school zones.
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BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions (BCBS) offers global health plans for international assignments or trips lasting 6 months or longer. With access to over 1.7M medical providers in 190 countries around the world, BCBS provides members with solutions and industry-leading digital services - ensuring top-quality coverage to people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
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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