Gov’t to Allow Trial-based Autonomous Highway Freight Transport, Expand Self-driving Test Zones

A self-driving night bus, the A21, begins operations on a 50-kilometer route in Seoul on Nov.

26, 2024. (Image courtesy of Yonhap) SEOUL, Dec.

2 (Korea Bizwire) -- Long-distance freight transport using autonomous vehicles will begin trial operations on highways as part of an initiative to promote self-driving technology, the transport ministry said Monday. The ministry said it designated six new autonomous vehicle test zones, including those on major highways and areas in the cities of Suwon, Hwaseong and Yongin, as well as Seoul's Dongjak district.

According to the ministry, the highway zones cover key logistics routes on the Gyeongbu and Jungbu expressways and span 358 kilometers. Additionally, existing zones in Gyeongju and Seoul have been expanded. In particular, Gyeongju will operate self-driving shuttle buses, connecting major venues and accommodations, during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit, scheduled to be held in the city in October 2025.

The ministry said it aims to demonstrate South Korea's advanced autonomous vehicle capabilities to world leaders at the gathering.

(Yonhap)