Autonomous delivery trucks to hit South Korean highways in June

South Korea is set to pioneer the commercialization of autonomous trucking for package delivery, marking a significant step forward in the nation's advanced mobility sector. Beginning in June, a dedicated route between Seoul and Jincheon will see self-driving trucks operating at highway speeds, a move that promises to reshape logistics and freight transportation.

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport has officially sanctioned this venture, signaling strong government support for the commercial application of autonomous driving technology beyond passenger vehicles. RideFlux, the company spearheading this initiative, will deploy its autonomous trucks on a 112-kilometer stretch, operating primarily during nighttime hours to minimize disruption and leverage optimal road conditions.

While the initial phase will include a safety driver in the cabin, the roadmap clearly indicates a transition towards fully unmanned operations by 2027. This phased approach underscores a commitment to safety and regulatory compliance while pushing the boundaries of technological implementation. The government's ambition extends further, with plans to introduce similar services in other major cities like Jeonju, Gangneung, and Daegu before the end of the year.

This development is not just about technological advancement; it's about enhancing the competitiveness of South Korea's logistics industry. By embracing autonomous freight, the nation aims to improve efficiency, reduce operational costs, and potentially address labor shortages in the trucking sector. The government's proactive stance, as articulated by Park Jun-hyung of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, emphasizes a dedication to fostering innovation across both passenger and freight autonomous transport.

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We will actively support domestic autonomous driving technology so that it can be competitive not only in passenger transport but also in freight transport.