Lunar New Year is a cherished time to spend with family, but it also brings heavy traffic congestion on highways and major roads. Particularly, traffic peaks on the roads heading home (return trips) during specific times. By knowing these peak times and planning ahead, you can make your journey much more comfortable. Here’s a detailed guide to the expected traffic congestion during the 2025 Lunar New Year holiday and some helpful tips to avoid it.
Expected Peak Travel Times for 2025 Lunar New Year
1. Peak Times for Homebound Travel
The 2025 Lunar New Year holiday officially begins on Tuesday, January 28th. The day before the holiday is typically when highways experience the heaviest traffic as people head to their hometowns.
- Estimated Congestion Times:
- Tuesday, January 28th: Congestion is expected to begin around 9 a.m. and intensify by 1 p.m.
- Traffic is likely to peak between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., with major highways such as the Gyeongbu Expressway, Yeongdong Expressway, and Seohaean Expressway being the most congested.
- Travel times could be 2 to 3 times longer than usual.
2. Peak Times for Return Travel
Return trips to major cities, especially Seoul, tend to see traffic surges beginning on the afternoon of Lunar New Year’s Day. By the last day of the holiday, traffic volume reaches its highest as people return home before the workweek resumes.
- Estimated Congestion Times:
- Wednesday, January 29th (Lunar New Year’s Day):
Morning traffic will be light, but from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m., expect severe congestion as vehicles return to urban centers. - Thursday, January 30th (Last Day of Holiday):
Congestion is expected to build from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., with highways leading to Seoul experiencing particularly heavy traffic.
- Wednesday, January 29th (Lunar New Year’s Day):
Estimated Travel Times on Major Highways
Here are the estimated travel times on key routes during peak congestion:
- Seoul → Daejeon: Normally 1.5 hours, but 3–4 hours during peak times.
- Seoul → Busan: Normally 4 hours, but 7–8 hours during peak times.
- Seoul → Gwangju: Normally 3.5 hours, but 6–7 hours during peak times.
- Seoul → Gangneung: Normally 2.5 hours, but 4–5 hours during peak times.
With such significant delays, planning your departure time wisely can make all the difference.
Tips to Avoid Traffic Congestion
1. Adjust Your Departure Time
- For homebound travel:
Depart late at night on the day before or early in the morning (5–6 a.m.) to avoid peak traffic. - For return travel:
Depart early in the morning (6–7 a.m.) on the last day or later in the evening when traffic has subsided.
2. Check Real-Time Traffic Information
Use apps like the Korea Expressway Corporation Traffic Info App, Naver Map, or Kakao Map to monitor real-time traffic conditions. These tools can help you identify less congested routes or alternative paths.
3. Use Public Transportation
To completely avoid traffic, consider using KTX trains, express buses, or flights. During the holiday, additional transportation services and tickets are often made available, so book your seats early.
4. Take Breaks at Rest Stops
Long driving hours during heavy traffic can be exhausting. Rest stops can provide a much-needed break. If traffic is particularly heavy, waiting at a rest stop until congestion eases can also save you time and stress.
5. Utilize Alternative Routes
National and local roads are often less congested than major expressways. Use your navigation app to explore alternative routes and bypass major traffic hotspots.
6. Extend Your Holiday Schedule
If possible, extend your holiday by a day or two. Traveling home a day earlier or returning a day later can significantly reduce travel stress.
Safety and Comfort Tips for Travel
1. Ensure Your Vehicle is in Good Condition
Before hitting the road, check your car’s condition, including the tires, engine oil, and brakes, to ensure a safe trip.
2. Bring Snacks and Water
Prepare snacks and drinks for the journey. Rest stops may be crowded, so having your own refreshments can save time and keep you energized.
3. Follow Traffic Laws
Stay alert and drive carefully, avoiding speeding or abrupt lane changes. Safe driving ensures a pleasant and stress-free trip for everyone.
Conclusion
Lunar New Year is a time for family, joy, and celebration, but traffic congestion can make it stressful. By following the peak traffic time predictions and tips above, you can plan a safer and smoother journey.
Start preparing early, stay flexible, and prioritize safety for a happy and memorable Lunar New Year. Safe travels and enjoy your holiday!