Yes, that which is beyond my comprehension boils down to the simple mechanical ingenuity that is the automobile. Not just any automobile, but specifically those of the Korean variety. And not only the said Korean automobile, but the Korean drivers that constantly put themselves in mortal peril as soon as they hop in.

Let us begin with the basic construction of the cars, and the rules that govern their interior space. The metaphor for that which is the essence of Korean driving can be witnessed through the simple fact that Korean cars do not come equipped with a seatbelt on the back right side. The back left and the center tend to always be provided for, yet for some unknown reason, perhaps a universal construction overlook due to there only being enough thread for all of the other seatbelts, the back right seat is always cheated out of this proven lifesaver. Add to the irony that the back right seat is thought to be the most revered and safest in the car, so that it is always an honor to be motioned to the seat. Being a woman, I have had the stroke of luck to be offered this seat every time there are two other men in the car. The men brave the innumerable dangers of the front seat with only their seatbelts for protection, while I am left in the safest spot of the car, which, of course, lacks the one tool known for its safety factor. Le it be known that I have nothing against the back seat. In fact, I adore it. For it is only in the back that one is allowed the privilege to enjoy a few precious moments of respite, as it is also considered improper to attempt to cross the invisible barrier between the front and back of the car with conversation. So here, in my seat of solitude, I have made a new art of weaving the words of the front, the music of the radio, and the strands of my own thoughts into webs that float along with as little care as to the path they take as does the driver.

The person behind the wheel holds the most important role of the car, that being to keep it on the road, away from other cars, and ideally steer it safely to its destination. I've realized that Korean drivers seem to find value only in the last duty on the list. No matter what the risks might be, drivers here seem fearless, using their cat-like reflexes to dodge any bullet that might be shot their way. Red lights are mere suggestions here, and even the presence of pedestrians does not always cause oncoming vehicles to reduce their speed. Left turns on red lights are frequent as well, and the cars that might otherwise have hit the semi that pulls out in front of them are forced to brake and skid off the road. And in mentioning 'cars,' I am of course referring to our own car on the way to school this morning. :)

I'm not familiar with the statistics of Korean traffic accidents, but I could see them being extreme in either direction. Between the lack of seatbelts and the conflicting careful daredevil attitude that persists, the I am once again beguiled by one small aspect of this fascinating country.

written by  Rachel in Korea! on December 11, 2008 from Seoul, South Korea
from the travel blog: South Korea, 2008-2009
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I remember when we hit a certain ill-placed parked car. I still lol at your mom's face when that happened.

written by  Mari on December 11, 2008

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Okay you two! I too remember a certain parked car, and although I couldn't see my facial expression, I remember how my heart was racing! For someone my age....it could have been a dangerous situation! :)
- Mom

written by  Julie Bowline on December 17, 2008

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why don't I know about this? Huh?

written by  mike bowline on January 20, 2009

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