According to CCTV News, against the backdrop of escalating tensions in the Middle East and increasing uncertainties in energy supply, the South Korean government announced that starting from 00:00 local time on March 25, a "vehicle restriction system based on license plate numbers" will be officially implemented for public agency vehicles to strengthen energy-saving measures. This marks the first time in 15 years since international oil prices exceeded $100 per barrel in 2011 that South Korea has reintroduced this measure in the public sector.

Under the plan, public agency vehicles will be subject to daily restrictions based on their license plate numbers, with exemptions for vehicles used by disabled individuals, pregnant women and infants, as well as electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles. Private vehicles are currently encouraged to participate voluntarily, but if the energy security alert level is raised to "caution," the government will consider expanding the restrictions to mandatory enforcement, potentially affecting approximately 23.7 million vehicles.

On March 24, South Korean President Lee Jae-myung emphasized at a State Council meeting that the current energy situation is severe and requires collective efforts from the public. He called on public agencies to lead by example and urged citizens to actively participate in energy-saving actions by using public transportation more frequently and reducing electricity consumption.

Additionally, the South Korean government plans to stagger commuting hours to distribute traffic demand and has requested energy-intensive enterprises to develop energy-saving plans. Companies that meet the standards will receive priority support in areas such as financing for energy-saving facilities.

Regarding the energy structure, the government will adjust the power supply mix by partially restoring restrictions on coal-fired power and accelerating the restart of nuclear power units to reduce the use of liquefied natural gas. At the same time, efforts will be intensified to advance the construction of renewable energy and energy storage facilities, with plans to add 7 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity and 1.3 gigawatts of energy storage systems within the year.

Furthermore, the South Korean government has issued 12 energy-saving initiatives for the public, including participating in vehicle restrictions, using public transportation, maintaining reasonable indoor temperatures, and charging electric vehicles and electronic devices during the daytime.