Intelligent transport systems solutions in transitional countries: the case of Korea

Transport policy in Korea is driven by the need to cope with ever-worsening traffic conditions. The development of an intelligent transport systems (I TS) Master Plan for Korea is of particular interest and demonstrates the he avy reliance placed on ITS measures to facilitate both the management of co ngested (but expanding) highway networks and to encourage a shift to greate r use of public transport. The paper highlights the major achievements of I TS in Korea by assessing the evidence provided by the widespread implementa tion of ITS technologies (such as the creation of 'showcase' demonstrations ). Some observations from the implementation of ITS in (so-called) transiti onal economies are presented.