The government is preparing energy demand reduction measures, including a vehicle rationing system, in response to the prolonged Middle East crisis.
President Lee Jae-myung said at a cabinet meeting at the Government Sejong Complex on the 17th, "The Middle East situation is escalating beyond expectations. If the current trajectory continues, oil prices will become unstable again and the impact on people's livelihoods will grow." He instructed officials to "establish multi-faceted energy demand reduction measures, including vehicle rationing systems such as the 5-day or 10-day rotation, if necessary."
The vehicle 5-day rotation system restricts driving and parking based on the last digit of license plates (1-0), with each number assigned to specific weekdays. Local governments can impose fines for violations.
The last time the government enforced nationwide mandatory vehicle restrictions for fuel conservation was during the 1991 Gulf War. During the 1997 Asian financial crisis, the measure was considered but never implemented. In 1998, a voluntary program was conducted. Since then, vehicle rationing has been limited to specific regions during major international events or sports competitions. Recently, restrictions have been applied mainly to public institutions based on air quality conditions.
President Lee said, "Just as we secured additional crude oil from the UAE, we must mobilize all diplomatic capabilities and assets to develop additional supply sources." He added, "The situation is difficult, so we need the public's understanding and participation." He continued, "If necessary, we should also consider export controls and emergency measures such as increasing the operating rate of nuclear power plants."
