Drivers will face fines of up to 70,000 won (US$63.53) for being caught leaving a dashboard-mounted television or other mobile devices for video programs turned on while driving, the home affairs ministry said Tuesday.
The measure, approved in the day by the Cabinet, is part of the government's efforts to toughen punishment for public safety, particularly after three professional cyclists were killed in May when a cargo truck driver, while watching TV, crashed into them on a road in southeastern South Korea.
The current law prohibits drivers from watching TV when their car is in motion, but there is no penalty.
Leaving all types of mobile devices for playing video materials turned on, not to mention watching or operating them, will constitute a fine of 60,000 won for sedan drivers, and 70,000 won for those who drive a van, according to the revision.
The punishment will also be applied to bicycle riders and motorcyclists, with violators to face fines of 30,000 won and 40,000 won, respectively, the ministry said.
The rule is expected to take effect in March next year, it added.
"Surveys show that fiddling mobile devices while driving distracts drivers more than drunk driving," a ministry official said. "Turning on navigation devices and looking at them is an exception to the punishment." (Yonhap)