Restrictions have been imposed on running vehicles in Seoul after an air pollution alert was issued due to high levels of ambient ozone. According to a notification issued by Seoul City Hall , operation of privately owned cars will be restricted in areas where air pollution densities have reached hazardous levels. Fines up to 2 million won (us $22,000) will be levied on those violating the order. Restrictions will also apply during the Asia-Europe Meeting (asem) this October and the World Cup soccer tournament in 2002.

This is in compliance with the governing law on atmospheric environment preservation. Privately owned vehicles with passenger capacities of less than 10 people would be banned from entering areas put on alert. The plan is that when the alert occurs on an odd-numbered date, vehicles that have even-numbered license plates would not be allowed entry in restricted areas and vice versa.