Free Self-Driving Taxi Launches in Gangnam

Autonomous Taxi Service Launch in Gangnam, Seoul: A Complete Guide

Autonomous taxis have officially begun operating in the Gangnam and Seocho areas of Seoul. This marks the first commercialization of an autonomous driving service in the country. Limited to nighttime hours, this pilot program offers free rides to passengers. Let’s dive deeper into how the self-driving technology works and how to use the service.

1. Overview of Autonomous Taxis

Operating Area: Parts of Gangnam-gu and Seocho-gu in Seoul
Operating Hours: 11 PM to 5 AM
Autonomy Level: Level 3
(e.g., The vehicle handles most driving tasks autonomously, but a test driver can intervene when necessary)

The service is designed for nighttime operation to efficiently test the self-driving technology in low-traffic conditions. The taxi is designed to accommodate up to three passengers and is accessible through the Kakao T application.

2. Autonomous Driving Technology: What’s So Special?

1) Advanced Sensors and Cameras

The vehicle is equipped with multiple LiDAR sensors and high-definition cameras.
It analyzes road conditions more than 5 times per second, providing real-time assessments.
Reaction time: Can process within 0.2 seconds, which is about twice as fast as a human.

2) Precision Mapping System

Even if existing road lane markings are faded or complex, the vehicle identifies routes based on precision maps.
The onboard driver can take emergency action in unpredictable situations.

3) Handling Complex Traffic Scenarios

Autonomous vehicles are trained to handle complex situations like right turns, lane changes, and deceleration smoothly.
Additional intervention from a human driver is provided in special zones like construction sites and school zones.

3. How to Ride and Usage Tips

1) Booking Method

Open the Kakao T smartphone app and select the “Autonomous Taxi” option.
You can book a ride by specifying your pickup and drop-off locations.

2) Features

Currently, rides are free of charge due to the trial operation period until the end of the year.
The service operates in the late-night hours, which are less crowded, and is planned for improvements based on customer feedback.

3) Precautions

Minimal in-car manual control is available, and the route cannot be changed mid-journey.
Service availability is limited by area, so it is necessary to check the operational map before booking.

4. Expected Benefits and Future Prospects

1) Improved Traffic Efficiency

It relieves driver fatigue during late-night hours and provides a foundation for more people to access safe and convenient transportation.

2) Technological Advancement

Real-world road trials help improve technological issues and eventually aim for nationwide expansion.
Learning predictable driving patterns to reduce accidents.

3) Long-Term Plans: Monetization and Service Expansion

After the free operation ends, plans for a paid service are underway, and expansion to more urban areas and daytime hours is being discussed.

Key Takeaways

Where does it operate? Parts of Gangnam-gu and Seocho-gu in Seoul.
When can I use it? From 11 PM to 5 AM.
Do I just need my smartphone? Yes, you can easily book through the Kakao T app.
Is it free? Yes, it’s currently free until the end of the year.

Crafted by Billy Yang

[Related articles at Next-Korea.com]

*Source : [SBS 뉴스] “생각보다 아찔아찔한데요”…국내 첫 자율주행 택시, 오늘 밤부터 운행 시작 / SBS 8뉴스

Trump's First Day in Office: Key Issues and Investment Strategies

1. AI Policy: Manhattan Project and the AI Arms Race

Trump is likely to repeal the Biden administration's AI-related policies on his first day in office. Rather than seeking stable development of the industry, he is likely to focus on accelerating AI development and securing a technological advantage over China.

The primary reason for this is China's rapid growth in the AI sector. This is a strategy rooted in "fear," similar to the past Manhattan Project, with large-scale investments expected to stay ahead of China.

Investment Perspective:

Big tech companies (especially those related to semiconductors and AI technology)
AI industry investment ecosystem

2. Energy Policy: Re-emergence of Fossil Fuels and Grid Investment

Trump is likely to return to conventional fossil fuels (especially LNG) to solve energy issues. At the same time, massive investments in grid construction and electrified infrastructure are expected.

Investment Perspective:

Natural gas (LNG) related companies
Electric/grid related infrastructure companies

3. Bitcoin and Crypto Assets: National Strategic Priorities

The Trump administration is likely to designate crypto assets like Bitcoin as a national strategic priority and ease related regulations.

Investment Perspective:

Cryptocurrencies (primarily Bitcoin)
Crypto exchanges (e.g., Coinbase)
Stablecoin development companies

4. Debt Issue: Deregulation and Interest Rate Decline

The U.S. debt limit has already been exceeded, and various legal and administrative relaxations will continue to address this. At the same time, the investment environment related to the financial sector is likely to improve to generate demand in the treasury sector.

Investment Perspective:

Global large banks (e.g., JP Morgan)
Government project-based companies (e.g., Palantir)

< Summary >

AI: Trump's strengthened AI strategy creates investment opportunities related to big tech.
Energy: Focus on the restructuring of the energy industry, including natural gas and power grids.
Bitcoin: Enhanced investment conditions through easing of cryptocurrency and crypto-related regulations.
Debt: Expectations of boosting the treasury and financial industry through deregulation.