Deputy PM Koo Yoon-cheol suggests car rationing if oil prices surge

Deputy Prime Minister Koo Yoon-cheol has hinted at the possibility of mandating a 'car rationing system' for the private sector if international oil prices climb to $120-$130 per barrel. This measure, aimed at saving energy amid a surge in global oil prices, could impact citizens' daily lives and vehicle usage.

Appearing on KBS's 'Sunday Diagnosis' on the 29th, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Koo Yoon-cheol explained that the energy crisis response might be elevated to Level 3 (Alert) if prices reach $120-$130 per barrel or if the situation worsens. He added that the government could consider mandating the car rationing system for the private sector to secure public cooperation, noting that a Level 3 escalation would necessitate consumption reduction due to rising prices, and the current voluntary participation in the car rationing system could be converted into a mandatory measure.

The government is undertaking multifaceted efforts to address the energy crisis, including further reducing oil taxes, increasing the operational rate of nuclear power plants, and accelerating the transition to renewable energy.