More than 10,000 people were caught driving under the influence of alcohol during a 50-day nationwide crackdown on reckless driving, the National Police Agency said Sunday.

During the clampdown between Sep. 9 and Oct. 28, 11,275 people were caught for dangerous driving acts, including 10,593 drunk drivers and 662 reckless drivers. 

Among those caught, 13 have been arrested with detention, including a driver who had his license revoked in the past for DUI but was again caught at the wheel with a blood alcohol level of 0.105 percent. Those found driving with a blood alcohol level of over 0.08 percent have their licenses canceled in South Korea.

Six others were caught for abetting drunk driving and four for disturbing traffic by driving abnormally slowly.

The authorities will extend the crackdown period until Dec. 27, mobilizing undercover patrol cars and drones, in light of the upcoming year-end season when the number of drunk drivers tends to surge. Repeat offenders caught during the period will be detained and their vehicles will be seized, police added. 


By Choi Ji-won (jwc@heraldcorp.com)