"Don't Block the Roads Too Much": Presidential Security Service to Reduce Traffic Control Sections

Vehicles carrying security officers from the Presidential Security Service conducted an inauguration parade training on the 27th at the Security Safety Training Center in Gangseo-gu, Seoul, ahead of the 21st presidential inauguration ceremony. Photo by Yonhap News

The Presidential Security Service announced on the 5th that it will significantly improve the operation of the presidential motorcade by implementing an "open and low-profile security" policy.

According to the Presidential Security Service, the new chief, Hwang Inkwon, instructed on the 4th to develop "practical measures to ease traffic congestion during the president's commute and minimize inconvenience to the public." This directive follows President Lee Jaemyung's announcement of Hwang's appointment on the same day, during which he stated, "I hope the roads won't be too blocked just because the president is commuting. It has been very inconvenient for me in the mornings, and frankly, it has not been good."

In response, the Presidential Security Service plans to change the types of vehicles used in the motorcade and minimize the length of the convoy. The number of traffic control sections will also be reduced. Additionally, even during the operation of the motorcade, the agency intends to ensure that left- and right-turning vehicles can pass as much as possible to minimize the likelihood of traffic congestion.

The Presidential Security Service stated, "Going forward, while absolutely ensuring the president's safety, we will avoid excessive control and actively implement open and low-profile security to minimize inconvenience to the public."