The Seoul Metropolitan Government will implement a license plate-based odd-even parking restriction at 75 public parking lots starting Wednesday to promote energy conservation and encourage public transit use. The measure follows the central government's decision to raise the crude oil supply crisis level to "alert" amid the prolonged war in the Middle East.
Seoul announced Monday that the restrictions will apply to passenger vehicles seating 10 or fewer and will remain in effect until the resource security crisis level is lifted. Under the system, vehicles are restricted from entering designated public parking lots based on the last digit of their license plate number: 1 and 6 on Mondays, 2 and 7 on Tuesdays, 3 and 8 on Wednesdays, 4 and 9 on Thursdays, and 5 and 0 on Fridays. Weekends and public holidays are excluded.
When a restricted vehicle attempts to enter a parking lot on its designated day, the parking control system will automatically recognize the license plate number and block entry. At lots without barrier gates, on-site personnel will manage access control.
The city excluded 33 public parking lots near traditional markets, major commercial districts, and densely populated residential areas from the restriction. The decision was made to minimize the impact on the local economy and ensure residents can access commercial areas without disruption.
Vehicles carrying persons with disabilities (including companions), national merit recipients, pregnant women, and preschool-age children are exempt, as are special-purpose vehicles for medical and fire services. Electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles are also exempt as eco-friendly transportation. However, compact cars and hybrid vehicles are subject to the restrictions.
Vehicles with pre-purchased monthly parking passes are also exempt. Starting next month, however, new pass purchasers must agree to comply with the odd-even restrictions in accordance with guidelines from the Ministry of Climate and Environment.
Seoul will publicize the restrictions through its parking information system and official website. The city will conduct joint campaigns with the Seoul Facilities Corporation at 27 major parking lots and deploy spot inspection teams to monitor compliance during vulnerable hours.
"We are operating the system with consideration for areas closely tied to residents' daily lives, such as traditional markets and densely populated neighborhoods," Yeo Jang-gwon, head of Seoul's Transportation Division, said. "We ask citizens to join in by using public transit and practicing energy conservation."