Why are South Korea's Highways So Congested on Chuseok?
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Synopsis
On Chuseok, South Korea experiences heavy traffic as families travel home or visit relatives. With millions on the move, the highways are congested, leading to lengthy travel times. President Lee Jae Myung emphasizes the importance of improving livelihoods during this festive season, blending tradition with a commitment to progress.
Key Takeaways
- Highways across South Korea are heavily congested during Chuseok.
- Traffic issues are compounded by family gatherings and late departures.
- Estimated travel times are lengthy, with significant delays expected.
- President Lee Jae Myung emphasizes the importance of improving livelihoods.
- Chuseok reflects both tradition and the challenges faced by the nation.
Seoul, Oct 6 (NationPress) Major highways throughout South Korea faced significant congestion on Monday as families traveled for the week-long Chuseok holiday or began their journey back home.
This year's Chuseok, occurring on Monday, celebrates the Korean autumn harvest festival, characterized by family gatherings and ancestral ceremonies. The holiday extends from Friday to Thursday, coinciding with National Foundation Day and Hangeul Day, which celebrates the creation of the Korean alphabet.
The Korea Expressway Corporation (KEC) reported that traffic remained heavy in both directions due to a combination of returning travelers and those departing late, as per Yonhap News Agency.
As of 6 PM, the expected travel time from the southeastern port city of Busan to Seoul was 5 hours and 30 minutes, 5 hours and 10 minutes from Ulsan, and 5 hours and 40 minutes from Gwangju, according to the KEC.
Traveling from Seoul to Busan was similarly estimated at 5 hours and 30 minutes, while trips to Ulsan took about 5 hours and 10 minutes, and to Gwangju around 4 hours and 30 minutes.
Outbound traffic from Seoul was anticipated to decrease around 11 PM, while inbound congestion was expected to ease from approximately 1 AM on Tuesday, according to the KEC.
Nationwide, nearly 6.67 million vehicles were projected to be on the roads on Monday.
On October 4, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and First Lady Kim Hea Kyung extended their greetings to the public on the second day of the extended Chuseok holiday, promising to prioritize the improvement of citizens' livelihoods.
In a video message, Lee expressed a 'heavy sense of responsibility' as the nation celebrates this year's extended Chuseok holiday, which runs from Friday to next Thursday.
'The Chuseok holiday is a time for abundance and hope, yet the challenges facing people's lives are significant. We should not only share joy during this time,' he stated.
Lee committed to doing everything possible to ensure 'every household thrives' and to facilitate a 'vigorous leap forward' for the nation's industries.
'I am confident we will overcome all challenges, fueled by our people's collective determination and vision for a brighter future,' he concluded.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the complexities surrounding the Chuseok holiday traffic. While the congestion reflects the deep-rooted traditions of family and togetherness, it also highlights the ongoing challenges faced by South Koreans in their daily lives. The government's focus on improving livelihoods signifies a commitment to addressing these issues while honoring cultural practices.
NationPress
06/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chuseok?
Chuseok is a traditional Korean festival celebrating the autumn harvest, characterized by family reunions and ancestral rites.
Why is traffic so heavy during Chuseok?
Traffic is heavy as millions of people travel to visit family or return home during the extended Chuseok holiday.
What are the expected travel times during Chuseok?
Travel times can vary, with estimates of up to 5 hours and 40 minutes from cities like Gwangju to Seoul.
When is the best time to travel during Chuseok?
Outbound traffic from Seoul is expected to ease around 11 PM, and inbound congestion is likely to lighten after 1 AM on Tuesday.
How many vehicles are expected on the road during Chuseok?
Approximately 6.67 million vehicles are projected to be on the move nationwide during the holiday.
