The report "Road Infrastructure, Inclusive Development and Traffic Safety in Korea" by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) explores the role of road infrastructure in economic development and its impact on traffic safety in South Korea. Key points:
-
Economic Development and Road Expansion: The study examines trends in economic development and the expansion of the Korean road network in the 1990s and 2000s. It highlights how road infrastructure increases economic opportunities and reduces transport costs.
-
Traffic Safety and Connectivity: The report develops indicators for the road-related increase in connectivity and access to opportunities across the country. It notes that benefits vary depending on the technological intensity of firms and the geographical location (urban vs. rural).
-
Rapid Development and Traffic Fatality Rates: Despite significant economic growth and infrastructure improvements, the rapid development of road infrastructure and motorisation has resulted in relatively high traffic fatality rates in South Korea.
-
Characteristics of Accidents and People Involved: The report analyzes the characteristics of traffic accidents and the demographics of those involved, which can inform strategies to improve traffic safety.
-
Governance Arrangements and Challenges: It assesses existing governance arrangements related to road safety, identifying key challenges and suggesting ways forward to enhance road traffic safety through better coordination among road safety institutions.
-
Policy Recommendations: The study provides concrete policy examples and recommendations aimed at supporting South Korea's future development in the realm of road infrastructure and traffic safety.
-
Collaboration and Data Sources: The research was a collaborative effort involving the OECD, the Korean Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT), and the Korean Permanent Delegation to the OECD. It utilized detailed regional data, digitized maps of major roads, and a comprehensive dataset of individual road traffic accidents.
The report underscores the importance of balancing economic development with traffic safety, emphasizing the need for more effective coordination among road safety institutions and considering the needs of vulnerable road users in the design of road structures and policies.
