South Korea’s Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) and the Korea Transportation Safety Authority (TS) announced a joint initiative Thursday to improve the convenience of freight truck driver operating record data submissions and promote safe driving practices. The program will provide free, automated data recording devices to qualified drivers.
The collaborative effort will see 257 truck drivers recognized for safe driving practices receive a “DT-5000” digital tachograph, according to a statement released by the FSS. The DT-5000 is designed to streamline data submission, addressing challenges faced by drivers currently using manual data transfer methods like USB drives.
The digital tachographs record data points including instantaneous speed, GPS location, and heading, aiming to encourage safer driving habits. The new devices will automatically collect and submit operating data via a mobile application, eliminating the need for manual uploads. The initiative specifically targets drivers operating vehicles with a maximum load capacity of 25 tons or more, as well as those operating tow trucks weighing over 10 tons, and those currently using non-communication-based systems.
Applications for the program will be accepted through the operating record inspection center and the operating record analysis system website until March 10th. To be eligible, drivers must have submitted data for at least one month between October 2025 and January 2026. In cases where the number of applicants exceeds the available devices, selection will be based on safety scores and mileage.
“We expect this initiative to strengthen traffic safety for freight trucks by creating an environment where drivers can submit operating records more conveniently and easily,” said Lee Byung-rae, Chairman of the FSS.
The FSS and TS highlighted the program as a response to longstanding difficulties experienced by drivers in submitting operating records, a requirement for regulatory compliance and safety monitoring. The automated system is intended to reduce administrative burdens and enhance driver focus on road safety.