Kim Gun Proposes 'Ddareungi Safe Use Act'... "National Standards Needed for Public Bicycle Safety"

"Different Methods by Region...
Unified National Standards Needed"

A bill mandating the government to establish safety management standards and related regulations to ensure the safer use of public bicycles, known as the "Ddareungi Safe Use Act," has been proposed in the National Assembly.

On August 13, Kim Gun, a member of the People Power Party, sponsored an amendment to the “Act on the Promotion of Bicycle Use” containing these provisions.

Kim Geon, member of the People Power Party. Photo by Yonhap News

The proposed amendment aims to authorize the government to set standards regarding ▲required safety equipment for public bicycles ▲regular and ad-hoc safety inspections ▲the collection and repair of broken bicycles ▲and safety management rules for public bicycle operators.

Assemblyman Kim stated, "It has been a long time since public bicycles, including Ddareungi, have become widely used means of transportation for the public," adding, "Instead of leaving inspection methods up to each region, the government should establish fundamental safety management standards."

He continued, "A single minor defect can lead to a major accident for a user," and emphasized his commitment: "I will do my utmost to introduce legislation and policies to reduce risks in daily life and create a safer environment for citizens."

According to data Kim's office received from the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, there were a total of 2,323 public bicycle accidents nationwide from January 2024 to June 2024. Of these, 237 cases—representing 10.2%—were caused by malfunctions or defects in the bicycles themselves.

Several cases directly linked bicycle defects to accidents. In Sejong City, an accident occurred when a bicycle seat suddenly descended while riding. In Suncheon, Jeollanam-do, there were incidents such as both brakes failing simultaneously, and chains coming off while the bicycle was in operation.

Nevertheless, as of now, there is no standard guideline from the Ministry of the Interior and Safety regarding safety inspections for public bicycles.Each local government conducts inspections based on its own criteria and methods, resulting in variations in timing and procedures across the country.

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