Driving in Korea

Korean driving and traffic laws are much like the US: drive on the right, steering wheel on the left side of the car; streets have yellow and white lines; same traffic lights, etc.  Korea even has an agreement with 11 US states, including Iowa, where you don't even need a written or driving test here - just exchange your US driver's license for a Korean one, which Nick has already done.

However, there are at least 3 differences we've observed.

First, traffic signs and lights are ... guidelines rather than rules.  If you're at a red light and traffic is light, go for it.  No problem.  If you're a bus and you're approaching a red light, just honk and go through it.   Some taxis do the same.  I find the ride much more relaxing if I just look out the side windows.

Second, many intersections have designated U-turn areas - watch for the dashed white line and inverted arrow on the road.  Again, these are suggested places for good U-turns, but you could do this wherever you'd like.

U-turn sign.  Note David and Sam hiding in embarrassment at the bus stop while I get a picture

Third, securing a child in a safety seat appears to be far less important than spending quality time together.   Seeing a child bouncing on a parent's lap is not unusual, but I have to admit great surprise to seeing a DRIVER do this with her (adorable) daughter.  I tried to sneak some pictures as our car pulled alongside such a driver, embarrassed when she saw me, but then she SMILED and HELD HER BABY UP so I could take more pictures.  Makes you wonder about the American emphasis on safety (a concern for one aspect of quality of life) vs. the Korean emphasis on connecting to their children (a concern for a different aspect of quality of life).  Very interesting.