South Korea’s women-only parking spaces were initially implemented to ensure the safety of female drivers, but they have become increasingly controversial over time. The system was first introduced in 2009 as part of a project to safeguard women’s rights, but it has faced widespread protests in Korea. In response to this opposition, Seoul has expressed its willingness to convert all women-only parking lots into family parking lots, signaling a shift away from the original system. Given the contentious nature of women-only parking lots, I strongly support the idea of dismantling the current system and exploring alternatives.

Marked in pink, the women-only parking areas were established in Seoul with the aim of designating at least ten percent of parking spaces as safe, accessible, and well-lit for women. While some people believed that this system provided a practical way for female drivers to navigate potential difficulties, others argued that it unintentionally perpetuated reverse discrimination and intensified conflicts. As a result, the women-only parking spaces were replaced with family-friendly areas starting July 18, and it now caters to the needs of families with infants and people with mobility challenges. I agree with this perspective and firmly believe that Seoul’s decision to abolish and revise the system is a rational course of action.

The initial purpose of creating these parking lots was to create a safe environment for women and protect them from potential crimes that often occur in parking areas. However, this system inadvertently exacerbates discrimination and may lead to reverse discrimination against men. Data from the Road Traffic Authority (RTA) shows a significant disparity in the number of male and female drivers, with approximately five million more male drivers. Despite this, with certain spaces specifically designated for female drivers, causing difficulties for male drivers when using these parking lots. Male drivers also face challenges such as accompanying children, which was one of the reasons behind the introduction of women-only parking lots. This perception of reverse discrimination intensifies gender conflicts. Furthermore, the lack of compulsion in this system raises questions about its effectiveness and necessity.

While the intention to protect women from crimes in parking spaces is commendable, the visual designation of women-only parking areas can make them an easy target for criminals. The Korean Police identified in their 2021 annual report that there have been 20 thousand records of crime in Korea as of 2021 and pointed out parking lots as one of the ten most crime-exposed places due to the lack of visibility in these areas. In fact, a criminal who kidnapped and murdered a woman in 2015 testified that he specifically targeted women-only parking spaces to search for female targets. Despite promises to install women-only parking lots in easily accessible areas, not all have followed through, leaving female drivers vulnerable to being targeted.

When the city project was first initiated by Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon, citizens were optimistic that it would bring about positive changes for women’s safety in Korea. However, due to the failure of the women-only parking lot system to fulfill its intended purpose and the potential risks it poses for women, I agree with the decision to eliminate these parking spaces and replace them with family-friendly areas that cater to the needs of all drivers. Instead of implementing policies like the women-only parking lot, it would be more beneficial for the Korean government to establish more comprehensive safety measures and guards in areas that require extra attention to achieve the goal of protecting women.