Motorcycle Roars at Night... Seoul to Launch Regular Crackdowns

Seoul to Conduct Regular Mobile Patrols from April to October
Special Nighttime and Random Crackdowns with Police and District Offices
Focus on Excessive Exhaust Noise and Illegal Modifications

Excessive exhaust noise from motorcycles is infringing upon citizens' rights to sleep and health. As outdoor activities and window opening increase during this season, the impact on residents is becoming more severe.

In response, the Seoul Metropolitan Government announced on May 3 that it will conduct regular motorcycle noise crackdowns in residential areas, a major source of disturbance to peaceful daily life, through October. Previously, in July of last year, the city enacted the "Seoul Metropolitan Government Motorcycle Noise Management Ordinance," establishing an institutional foundation for managing motorcycle noise and preventing related damage, and taking steps to create a comfortable living environment that citizens can tangibly experience.

Two-Wheel Vehicle Noise Crackdown Site. Seoul City

The ordinance includes the development of a motorcycle noise management plan and the formation and operation of a working council to prevent motorcycle noise damage and create a pleasant living environment, as well as public awareness campaigns. The city plans to collaborate with relevant organizations such as the police, district offices, and the Korea Transportation Safety Authority to conduct joint day and night crackdowns once a month. In addition, the city will deploy its own mobile units for random inspections, aiming to establish a denser and more effective monitoring network.

The noise crackdowns, conducted from April to October, will focus on major thoroughfares with heavy motorcycle traffic and areas that have recorded a high number of complaints, based on big data analysis and on-site surveys. The main targets of the crackdown include: ▲ Violations of permitted exhaust noise standards (such as exceeding 105dB), and ▲ Illegal modification (tuning) of mufflers. When violations are discovered, improvement orders will be issued and fines will be imposed. In addition, guidance activities to promote a mature driving culture will be carried out.

Meanwhile, the Seoul Metropolitan Government is also pursuing electric motorcycle support policies to fundamentally reduce noise-causing internal combustion engine motorcycles. In particular, the city plans to encourage a shift to eco-friendly motorcycles, especially among delivery workers who frequently use motorcycles, by providing additional subsidies for battery-swappable electric motorcycles.

Kwon Min, Director of the Seoul Climate and Environment Headquarters, stated, "With rising temperatures, people are spending more time with their windows open, which is increasing citizens' discomfort due to motorcycle noise," adding, "Through regular crackdowns and public awareness campaigns, we will raise drivers' awareness so that citizens can enjoy a pleasant daily life."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.