The total number of registered vehicles in South Korea reached 26.3 million by the end of 2024, marking a 1.3% increase compared to 2023, according to Yonhap News Agency.
For the first time, eco-friendly vehicles accounted for more than 10% of all registered vehicles in the country, achieving a record 10.4% share. This marks a 2.2 percentage-point rise from the previous year, highlighting South Korea’s accelerating shift toward sustainable transportation options.
Eco-Friendly Vehicle Growth
The surge in environmentally friendly vehicles was largely driven by the popularity of hybrid models, which saw substantial growth, reaching 2.02 million units. Meanwhile, electric vehicles (EVs) recorded 684,000 registrations, and hydrogen-powered vehicles totaled 38,000 units.
In total, the number of eco-friendly vehicles—including hybrids, EVs, and hydrogen-powered models—reached 2.75 million units, an increase of 626,000 units from 2023.
Decline in Internal Combustion Vehicles
This shift reflects a growing consumer preference for low-emission vehicles as the market for traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) cars continues to decline. Industry experts attribute the trend to government incentives, advancements in green vehicle technology, and increased awareness of environmental issues.
The rising share of eco-friendly cars aligns with South Korea’s broader goals to achieve carbon neutrality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The country has invested heavily in infrastructure for electric and hydrogen vehicles, including subsidies for buyers and expanded charging networks.
As the automotive industry continues its transition, South Korea is expected to see further growth in the adoption of eco-friendly vehicles, reshaping the nation’s transportation landscape.
