South Korea has emerged as one of the most regulated yet thriving electric scooter markets in Asia. With the passage of the comprehensive Personal Mobility (PM) Safety Law in December 2025, Korea now has one of the clearest regulatory frameworks for e-scooters in the region. This guide covers everything you need to know about riding legally in Korea in 2026, from the new PM Law requirements to the best KC-certified scooters available in the Korean market.
Korea PM Regulations 2026: What You Must Know
The Korean government has significantly tightened e-scooter regulations in recent years. Here are the current rules as of 2026:
License Requirements
Motorized bicycle license required: All PM riders must hold at least a motorized bicycle license (원동기장치자전거면허). This is available to anyone aged 16 or older. A full driver's license (Class 1 or 2) also qualifies. Riding without a valid license carries fines of up to 100,000 KRW.
Speed Limits and Equipment
- Maximum speed limit: 20 km/h (reduced from 25 km/h in late 2024)
- Mandatory helmet: 20,000 KRW fine for not wearing one
- Front and rear lights required after sunset
- Bell or horn required
Where You Can (and Cannot) Ride
- Permitted: Bicycle lanes, designated PM zones, roads with speed limits under 30 km/h
- Strictly prohibited: Sidewalks (인도), crosswalks, pedestrian-only zones
- Fines: 40,000-130,000 KRW for sidewalk riding
December 2025 PM Safety Law
The new PM Safety Law introduced several important changes: mandatory registration for all PMs by March 2026, enhanced penalties for drunk riding (same as motor vehicle DUI), and stricter manufacturing standards requiring KC certification for all scooters sold in Korea.
Best Electric Scooters in Korea 2026
The Korean e-scooter market is dominated by Segway-Ninebot (approximately 45% market share), followed by Xiaomi and premium Korean brands like WEPED and Nanowheel. Here are the top models available with full local warranty and KC certification:
Segway Ninebot MAX G3
The Segway Ninebot MAX G3 remains the best-selling scooter in Korea for good reason. With a 65 km range, 10-inch tubeless tires, and excellent build quality, it's the go-to choice for Seoul commuters. Price: 799,000-899,000 KRW at Coupang, Gmarket, and authorized dealers.
Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 Ultra
Xiaomi's latest flagship offers 70 km range and dual braking with ABS. Its 940W motor provides excellent hill-climbing capability—essential for Korea's hilly terrain. Price: 749,000-849,000 KRW.
WEPED GT (Korean Premium)
WEPED is Korea's premier domestic scooter brand, producing high-performance models in Incheon. The WEPED GT features dual 1,200W motors, 90 km range, and full suspension. It's expensive but comes with unmatched local warranty and service. Price: 2,200,000-2,800,000 KRW.
Nanowheel NB-S10
Another Korean brand, Nanowheel offers solid mid-range options with KC certification and local service centers. The NB-S10 provides 40 km range at a more accessible price point. Price: 399,000-499,000 KRW.
Segway Ninebot F2 Plus
The budget-friendly option from Segway offers 40 km range and 10-inch tires. It's perfect for shorter commutes and last-mile transportation. Price: 449,000-549,000 KRW.
Where to Buy in Korea
Major e-commerce platforms like Coupang, Gmarket, and 11st offer competitive prices with fast delivery. For hands-on testing and service, visit:
- Segway Korea official stores in Seoul (Gangnam, Hongdae)
- Electromart sections in E-Mart and Homeplus
- WEPED Experience Center in Incheon
Importing Scooters to Korea
For riders interested in international brands like Levy Electric, importing is possible but involves several steps. Levy's swappable battery system is particularly appealing for Korean riders who need extended range without heavy scooters. However, direct shipping isn't available—you'll need a freight forwarder (배대지) like Malltail or Ohmyzip. Expect total landed costs of $900-1,100 USD including:
- Product price
- International shipping: $150-200
- Customs duty: 8%
- VAT: 10%
- Customs clearance fee: ~30,000 KRW
Important: Imported scooters may need KC certification verification. Non-KC-certified PMs can face restrictions on where they can be legally ridden and may void insurance coverage.
Practical Tips for Riding in Korea
- Use Kakao Map or Naver Map to find designated bicycle lanes
- T-money doesn't work for PM rental services—use specific apps like Beam, Lime, or Kickgoing
- Winter riding: Korea's winters are harsh. Store batteries indoors when temperatures drop below freezing
- Parking: Use designated PM parking zones (개인형이동장치 주차구역) to avoid fines
Conclusion
Korea's e-scooter market has matured significantly with clear regulations and excellent product availability. While the PM Law adds some bureaucratic requirements, it also provides clarity and legitimacy to personal mobility. Whether you choose a market-leading Segway, a premium Korean WEPED, or import a unique option like the Levy Plus for its swappable battery convenience, make sure your scooter is KC-certified and you carry your license. The streets of Seoul, Busan, and beyond await—just stay off the sidewalks!