◆License Exams Stained with Bribery
With private automobile ownership now recognized and large numbers of vehicles being smuggled in from China since last summer, applicants who see driving as a qualification that can earn money have surged. As a result, the cost of obtaining a license—that is, the amount of bribes—is skyrocketing.
Reporting Partner C in Hyesan says, "The bribe amount has become 2-3 times more than in the past. Previously it ended with 300-500 yuan, but now even if you have driving skills, you have to give at least 1,200 yuan. Without bribes, they won't even accept your application."
※ 1 yuan = approximately 207 Korean won
Additionally, Reporting Partner B mentioned bribes.
"(The exam) is just drawing a figure-8 line on a playground, and if you can pass through without stepping on it (by driving), you're done. But bribes are essential to pass even this simple test."
◆Unlicensed Practice Day and Night... Tragedies Leading to Accidents
As more people try to buy licenses with bribes, fatal accidents are noticeably increasing. Reporting Partner D from North Hamgyong Province shared the following:
"Last year, a mine executive was driving his private car when it rolled down a hill road, severely injuring his spine. Also, a Safety Bureau vehicle hit someone riding a bicycle, causing fractured limbs. As more people who never properly learned to drive increase, I feel anxious just hearing car sounds. There are cars secretly practicing driving without licenses at night, and the Safety Bureau targets them for crackdowns and extorts bribes."
Obtaining driver's licenses has become something of a boom among those who are financially comfortable. This is because it represents an opportunity to bring in income. However, it's also encouraging corruption and causing a loosening of traffic safety discipline.
※ ASIAPRESS communicates with its reporting partners through Chinese cell phones smuggled into North Korea.
