Yes, driving barefoot is not explicitly prohibited under South Korea’s Road Traffic Act, but it violates Article 12 of the Enforcement Decree of the Road Traffic Act, which mandates “proper footwear” for maintaining control. Local courts have upheld fines under negligence clauses when barefoot driving contributes to accidents. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) plans stricter 2026 guidelines linking footwear to distracted driving risks.
Key Regulations for Driving Barefoot in South Korea
- Article 12, Enforcement Decree: Requires “suitable footwear” to ensure pedal control, leaving barefoot operation open to interpretation by traffic authorities.
- Negligence Clause (Article 5-2): Police may cite drivers for unsafe operation if barefoot driving impairs reaction time, leading to fines up to ₩30,000 (~$23 USD).
- 2026 Compliance Shift: MOLIT’s draft amendments will classify barefoot driving as a “distraction-related violation,” enabling automatic penalties under revised traffic ordinances.
Local enforcement varies by jurisdiction; Seoul and Busan police have issued warnings, while rural areas rarely penalize barefoot drivers. Insurance claims may be denied if barefoot operation is deemed contributory negligence. International drivers should adhere to local standards to avoid liability.