In a significant move to enhance parking convenience, Donghae City in South Korea has introduced a smart parking navigation system that offers real-time guidance to available parking spaces. The initiative was highlighted during a demonstration event held at the Safety Information Center, showcasing a new service that goes beyond traditional navigation capabilities, guiding users directly to open parking spots based on real-time data. This service aims to alleviate the struggles faced by travelers, such as those heading to Uljin Island, who often find themselves caught in traffic while searching for parking.

The implementation of this smart parking system is a collaborative effort between government authorities, local municipalities, and private companies. The Ministry of the Interior and Safety has played a crucial role in restructuring parking data, involving detailed mapping, surveying, and the development of a comprehensive data framework. By integrating parking management systems with CCTV and real-time data transmission, this innovative project aims to optimize the parking experience significantly.

Donghae City has initiated this service in six public parking lots near Mukho Harbor, serving a total of 630 parking spaces with plans to extend the service across 200 local public parking areas. The expected outcomes of the service include increased parking convenience, a reduction in cruising for parking spots, alleviation of traffic congestion, and a decrease in carbon emissions. Officials are optimistic that the establishment of a detailed address system for parking spaces will contribute to a smart transportation system that impacts the everyday lives of citizens positively.