The Korean National Police Agency said on the 14th that, under a revision to the Road Traffic Act, a new offense of refusing a drug-driving test will be introduced. Starting Apr. 2, drivers must comply when a traffic officer demands a drug test.
The penalty standard for drug driving will also be raised from the current up to 3 years in prison or a fine of up to 10 million won to up to 5 years in prison or a fine of up to 20 million won.
Drugs subject to punishment include narcotics, psychotropic medications, cannabis, and hallucinogens.
Medications prescribed by a doctor will not lead to punishment simply for being taken, but the determination may change depending on whether there is a concern the driver cannot operate a vehicle normally. If a driver's attention, motor skills, or judgment decline and the driver cannot properly operate the steering wheel or braking system, the driver may be subject to enforcement.
The Korean National Police Agency also provided guidelines to prevent drug driving. ▲ When receiving or purchasing medication, always check with a doctor or pharmacist whether it is safe to drive ▲ Check prescriptions or pill bags for the phrases "causes drowsiness" or "driving prohibited or use caution" ▲ Allow sufficient time intervals when taking drowsiness-inducing medication.
Last year, there were 237 driver's license revocations due to narcotics or drug driving. That was up 45.4% from 2024. Traffic accidents caused by narcotics driving and drug driving occurred 31 and 44 times, respectively.
Kim Ho-seung, director general for Community Safety and Traffic at the Korean National Police Agency, said, "Drug driving is as risky as drunk driving, yet public awareness remains low," and emphasized, "Drugs always have side effects, so assess whether you are in a condition to drive, and if you are unwell, you must not drive."