Driving in China vs. South Korea: Key Differences Explained
Exploring the nuances of road regulations in China and South Korea reveals distinct variations in traffic rules and vehicle operation. From lane markings and speed limits to alcohol tolerance and emergency protocols, understanding these contrasts is essential for ensuring a secure driving experience abroad. Prepare to navigate the roads confidently with our comprehensive comparison!
Driving Side
The driving side in china is the Right Side of the road
Driving Safety Score
The driving Driving Safety Score in china is 49
Gas Price in USD
The driving Driving Safety Score for china is 1.162 US Dollars
While the driving side of a country remains the same, the driving safety score is updated annually based on each countries car accident fatality rate. Lastly, the gas price is only an estimate. Due to frequent fluctuations, it serves as a general reference rather than an exact figure for each country.
Lanes
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| China | South korea | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Markings: Solid Yellow Line | Separates directions on multi-lane roads. | Marks the centerline on two-way roads; no crossing allowed. | |
| Markings: Dashed Yellow Line | Marks centerline on two-way roads; passing permitted when safe. | Centerline on two-way roads; passing permitted when safe. | |
| Overtaking: On Right | Allowed in certain cases; check local rules. | Allowed on multi-lane roads | |
| Overtaking: Prohibited Areas | List length: 4 | List length: 5 | |
| Overtaking: Prohibited Areas[ Index 3] | Railroad crossings | Pedestrian crossings | |
| Lane Usage: Slow Vehicles | Use rightmost lane if possible. | Use rightmost lane. | |
| Bus Lanes: Usage | Reserved for buses; other vehicles during off-peak hours in some places. | Reserved for buses during specified hours. | |
| Bus Lanes: Markings | Labeled with lane signs and often painted lanes. | Often marked with blue lines, labeled 'BUS'. | |
| Cycle Lanes: Usage | Exclusive for bicycles and electric bikes. | Exclusive for bicycles. | |
| Cycle Lanes: Markings | Bicycle symbols and sometimes different texture or color. | Bicycle symbols and sometimes colored pavement. | |
| High- Occupancy Lanes: Requirements | Usually for vehicles with two or more occupants | Minimum two or more occupants | |
| Variable Speed Limits: Presence | Yes | No | |
| Variable Speed Limits: Indications | Electronic signs display current limits. | N/A |
Speeds Limits
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| China | South korea | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Urban Areas: Standard | 40-60 km/h | 60 km/h | |
| Rural Areas: Cars And Motorcycles | 70-90 km/h | 80-100 km/h | |
| Rural Areas: Buses And Vans | 70-80 km/h | 80-100 km/h | |
| Highways: Buses And Vans | 90-100 km/h | 100-110 km/h | |
| Variable Speed Limits: Presence | Yes | No | |
| Variable Speed Limits: Indications | Electronic signs display current limits | N/A | |
| Enforcement: On-the- Spot Fines | Yes, especially in urban areas | Yes |
Signals
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| China | South korea | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Traffic Lights: Red And Amber Together | Not used in China | Not used in South Korea | |
| Horn Usage: Prohibited Times | Restricted in some urban areas to reduce noise pollution | Unnecessary use discouraged; local ordinances may apply | |
| Traffic Signs: Language | Chinese; symbols also used | Korean; symbols are standard | |
| Traffic Signs: Warning | Triangular shape with red borders | Diamond-shaped with yellow or orange background |
Turns
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| China | South korea | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Right Turn On Red | Allowed unless prohibited by a sign; varies by locality | Allowed unless prohibited by a sign | |
| U- Turns Allowed | Allowed unless prohibition is indicated by road signs | Allowed unless prohibited by signs |
Documentation
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| China | South korea | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Driver's License: Requirement | Valid Chinese driver's license required | Valid driver's license required | |
| Driver's License: Foreign: E U/ E E A | International Driving Permit required for short visits | Accepted with International Driving Permit | |
| Driver's License: Foreign: Non- E U | International Driving Permit and temporary Chinese license usually required | Accepted with International Driving Permit | |
| Vehicle Inspection: Requirement | Yes, periodic inspection required for vehicles | Mandatory; proof must be displayed | |
| Emergency Equipment: Reflective Vest | Not mandatory, but recommended | Recommended but not mandatory |
Road Etiquette
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| China | South korea | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Use Of Horn: Cultural Norm | Frequent use in cities such as Beijing and Shanghai | Less frequent use compared to some countries | |
| Emergency Vehicles: Protocol | Pull over to the side and stop if necessary | Pull over to the right and stop if necessary |
Exploring the nuances of road regulations in China and South Korea reveals distinct variations in traffic rules and vehicle operation. From lane markings and speed limits to alcohol tolerance and emergency protocols, understanding these contrasts is essential for ensuring a secure driving experience abroad. Prepare to navigate the roads confidently with our comprehensive comparison!
Alcohol
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| China | South korea | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Limits: General Drivers | 0.02% | 0.05% | |
| Limits: Professional Drivers | 0.00% | 0.03% | |
| Enforcement: Random Checks | Common, especially near bars and clubs | Common; sobriety checkpoints frequently used | |
| Enforcement: Fines | Severe fines, license suspension possible | Varies; can be substantial | |
| Test Refusal | Can result in license suspension and legal penalties | Can result in license suspension and fines |
Roundabouts
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| China | South korea | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Lane Usage: Right | Use for first exit or straight ahead | Use for first exit or straight |
Emergency Services
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| China | South korea | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Contact: General Emergency | 110 | 112 | |
| Contact: Traffic Police | Same as general emergency; 110 | Varies; often part of the general emergency network | |
| Emergency Equipment: Reflective Vest | Not mandatory, but recommended | Recommended but not mandatory |
Penalties And Fines
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| China | South korea | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Common Fines: Speeding | Varies; ¥200 to ¥2,000, points on license | Varies; fines and license points given | |
| Common Fines: Seat Belts | ¥50 to ¥200 | Fines and license points given | |
| Common Fines: Phone Use | Fines and points on license | Fines and license points given | |
| Common Fines: Traffic Light Violation | Fines and points on license | Fines and license points given | |
| Payment: On The Spot | Possible; fines often paid online or at banks | Yes | |
| Payment: Deadline | Varies; typically 15 to 30 days to pay | Varies; typically 30 days to pay |