South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) unveiled the ‘2030 Mobility Innovation Growth Roadmap’ on February 26, 2026. This policy blueprint outlines the nation’s strategy to leverage AI technologies for faster, more convenient public mobility over the next five years. It follows the earlier 2022 Mobility Innovation Roadmap and builds on legislative foundations such as the Mobility Innovation and Activation Support Act (April 2023) and Urban Air Mobility Utilization Promotion Act (October 2023). The roadmap addresses previous delays in commercializing autonomous vehicles and urban air mobility, aiming to enhance public engagement and responsiveness to rapid AI advancements.
The roadmap impacts a wide range of stakeholders, including citizens, transport operators, and technology developers. Key initiatives include deploying 200 autonomous vehicles in Gwangju for large-scale testing, standardizing real-world driving data, and establishing an AI-based autonomous driving technology development system. The policy also supports drone localization for sectors like firefighting, aviation, and agriculture, and expands drone zones and parks. Efforts to increase the share of eco-friendly vehicles include battery certification, improved battery management systems, and hydrogen bus and train demonstrations.
Implementation is scheduled with clear milestones: full commercialization of autonomous vehicles by 2027, and public urban air mobility (UAM) services starting in 2028. This year, MOLIT will begin large-scale autonomous vehicle trials and launch battery certification for electric vehicles. By next year, drone zones will be significantly expanded, and performance evaluation and safety inspection systems for used batteries will be introduced. The roadmap also includes the construction of a hyperloop testbed by 2029 and the development of integrated mobility apps and remote driving regulations by 2027.
Frequently asked questions include: When will autonomous vehicles become widely available? By 2027, full commercialization is planned, with large-scale trials already underway. What is the timeline for urban air mobility services? Public UAM services are scheduled to begin in 2028, with infrastructure and safety systems being developed now. How will eco-friendly vehicle adoption be supported? Battery certification, leasing, and recycling programs are being implemented, alongside hydrogen bus and train demonstrations.
South Korea’s 2030 Mobility Innovation Growth Roadmap is a strategic response to rapid AI advancements and previous delays in mobility commercialization. The policy is notable for its clear milestones, legislative backing, and focus on both technological and regulatory improvements. By prioritizing autonomous vehicles, urban air mobility, and eco-friendly transport, MOLIT is positioning the country as a leader in future mobility. The roadmap’s phased approach and expansion of drone and battery programs are likely to enhance public engagement and industry innovation.