South Korea to penalize unlicensed driving instructors advertising services

South Korea is set to implement stricter regulations on driving instruction starting next month, targeting unlicensed individuals who offer paid lessons. The revised Road Traffic Act, effective July 1, will penalize those who advertise or broker unregistered paid driving education services through online platforms or flyers.

Previously, while offering unregistered paid driving instruction itself was punishable, the act of advertising or brokering such services lacked clear legal grounds for prosecution. This loophole allowed numerous unregistered driving instructors to promote their services on online blogs, cafes, and chat rooms, often under the guise of "beginner driver training" or "personal car road training."

A significant concern with these unregistered services is the frequent use of ordinary vehicles not equipped with the necessary safety features, such as auxiliary brakes for the instructor. This increases the risk of accidents, and students may be held financially responsible in case of a mishap, as these services are typically not covered by comprehensive insurance.

The new law aims to curb these risks by penalizing any form of advertising or brokering of illegal driving education. The National Police Agency clarified that even posts appearing as personal reviews could be subject to punishment if they promote illegal driving instruction. Violators face up to one year in prison or a fine of up to 3 million won.

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Even if it takes the form of a simple review, it can be subject to punishment if it promotes illegal driving education.