Holiday Travel Peaks: South Korea Braces for 8-Hour Traffic Jams

The holiday travel rush is in full swing across South Korea, with the first day of the Buddha's Birthday long weekend seeing an unprecedented surge in vehicles on the roads. The Korea Expressway Corporation predicts a staggering 6.19 million vehicles will use the highways today, underscoring the deep-seated tradition of family gatherings and travel during these extended breaks.

For those venturing out of the capital, the journey south promises to be a test of patience. The Seoul to Busan route, a common path for many, is projected to take a grueling 8 hours and 20 minutes, with congestion peaking between late morning and early afternoon. Similar lengthy travel times are expected for other major southern cities like Ulsan and Gwangju.

Residents heading back towards Seoul will also face significant delays, though the peak congestion is anticipated later in the afternoon. The good news for weary travelers is that the gridlock is expected to gradually dissipate by late evening, allowing for a smoother return journey. This annual exodus highlights the importance of these holidays for Koreans, who prioritize spending time with family, even if it means enduring hours of traffic.