Currently, motorcycles in Korea are only required to display license plates on the rear. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, Aug. 1 (Korea Bizwire) – In a bid to curb traffic violations and enhance safety among commercial motorbike drivers, South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport announced Wednesday that it will launch a one-year pilot program in October requiring front-facing number stickers on delivery motorcycles.
Currently, motorcycles in Korea are only required to display license plates on the rear. Under the new program, identification stickers in various formats will be affixed to the front of bikes, making them more easily recognizable for enforcement and helping to raise rider awareness.
The ministry initially considered front metal plates similar to rear ones, but dismissed the idea due to concerns that metal plates could increase air resistance, affect driving stability, and pose additional harm to pedestrians in the event of a crash.
The pilot will take place in 11 cities nationwide, including metropolitan and major cities with populations exceeding one million. Up to 5,000 commercial riders can enroll via the “WeDrive” mobile app between August 1 and the end of September.
Participants, designated as “Riding Guardians,” will receive a variety of incentives: a 1.5% discount on commercial transport insurance, free engine oil changes or e-bike checkups, and gift vouchers worth approximately 40,000 won per year.
The ministry also plans to implement a nationwide motorcycle license plate system starting March 2026, including larger rear plate formats to improve visibility and enforcement.
In partnership with the Korea Transportation Safety Authority (TS), the government will survey riders and analyze traffic violations and accident data before and after the trial to assess the program’s effectiveness.
Officials are also considering further studies and inter-agency consultations to improve the sticker’s design, material, and operational framework, with a view toward future legislation.
“This pilot project marks a crucial first step toward safer riding culture and regulatory reform for motorcycles,” said Kim Hong-mok, director general of mobility and automotive policy at the ministry. “We hope for strong participation from riders to help instill a lasting culture of traffic safety.”
M. H. Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)