Full-scale Launch of 'Level 4' Self-Driving in 2027... Comprehensive Overhaul of Pilots, Regulations, and R&D

[Financial News] The government has unveiled a comprehensive support plan to commercialize 'Level 4' self-driving cars by 2027, covering pilot projects, regulations, R&D, and institutional reforms. As the first of the 15 Leading Projects for AI Transformation, this initiative reflects the demands of industry, experts, and the taxi sector.
On the 26th, at the Council of Economic Ministers and Growth Strategy Task Force meeting, the government announced measures to enhance the competitiveness of the self-driving car industry. It revealed plans to establish an 'autonomous driving pilot city,' where the entire city will serve as a demonstration zone. Over 100 self-driving cars will be deployed, and the project will follow a 'K-Autonomous Driving' collaboration model involving both major corporations and startups. The initiative also includes expanded support for self-driving buses in areas with limited transportation options.
Regulations will also undergo significant revision. The use of original video data for research and development will be permitted, and video data collected from private vehicles will be anonymized or pseudonymized before use. Temporary operation permits, previously limited to developers, will be extended to transportation operators. Additionally, self-driving will be allowed in protected zones for vulnerable road users, provided there is an internal safety plan.
Support for R&D will be strengthened as well. The government will secure dedicated Graphics Processing Units (GPU) for self-driving cars and establish AI learning centers. For the End-to-End method (E2E) technology, the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) will develop core technologies, while the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources (MOTI) will focus on commercialization. The export review process for National Core Technology will be streamlined to facilitate international joint research.
Institutional reforms to prepare for the era of fully autonomous driving are also included. The government will introduce a legal entity to assume driver responsibilities, establishing the scope of criminal and administrative sanctions. To clarify civil liability in the event of accidents, a joint 'Accident Liability Task Force (TF)' will be formed and operated. Within the year, a joint social consultative body of stakeholders will be launched to discuss ways to ensure mutual growth with existing transportation operators.
Starting with these measures, the government plans to continue supporting the development of the self-driving car industry. By the first half of next year, it will establish a management plan for the self-driving industry, including institutionalizing self-driving transportation and mobility services, to achieve the goal of commercializing fully autonomous vehicles by 2027.

en1302@fnnews.com Jang In-seo Reporter