Hit-and-run — as a victim, and how not to become one
Hit-and-run is a very serious offence. Know how to respond both as a victim and if you accidentally become the driver at fault.
If you were hit and they fled
- Call 119 and 112. Injuries come first.
- Write down what you remember immediately — vehicle type, colour, part of the plate, direction, time.
- Look for nearby CCTV and dashcams — shops, apartments, passing cars. Footage is deleted over time, so request preservation quickly.
- Find witnesses.
- Get a medical certificate.
- Ask about the government compensation programme. Even if the driver is never found, the state can provide certain compensation. Ask your insurer or 1332.
If you caused an accident — never leave
- Leaving after injuring someone without taking action is hit-and-run, with very heavy penalties.
- Even if it looks minor, always stop and check.
- Scratching a parked car and leaving no contact details is also punishable.
- If you panicked and left, report yourself to the police now. It counts heavily in your favour.
Where to go
- 119 injuries · 112 police
- 1332 Financial Supervisory Service (government compensation programme)
- Your insurer's claims line
- 132 Korea Legal Aid Corporation
- 1345 · 1577-1366 interpretation
Questions people ask
I didn't see the plate. CCTV can find it. Give the exact time and place. The sooner you report, the more likely footage still exists.
What about my treatment if they're never found? The government compensation programme can provide certain compensation. Ask 1332 or an insurer.
Does it apply to bicycles and motorbikes? Yes — injuring someone and leaving without action is the same.
I panicked and drove off. Go to the police now. Voluntary reporting is weighed heavily in your favour. You can consult 132 first.
Take care
CCTV is usually kept only for a short period. If you were hit, report the same day and request preservation of the footage. A day later it may be gone.
Related
traffic-accident-steps · accident-insurance-claim · call-112 · call-119
Source
Korean National Police Agency www.police.go.kr / As of 2026-08