November 13, 2025, marks the day when students across the country will see their efforts in the College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT) come to fruition. On this important day, the government and local authorities implement special traffic measures to facilitate the smooth movement of students. This also significantly impacts the commute of ordinary office workers, making it crucial to prepare in advance. Most government offices and companies are advised to adjust their start times to after 10 a.m., and vehicle entry is restricted within 200 meters of the test sites. While these measures are for students, they will also create a different situation for those using public transportation for their commute.
The wisest way to avoid traffic congestion on the CSAT day is undoubtedly to use public transportation. The government will significantly expand the operation of subways and city buses to facilitate the smooth movement of students. In particular, the number of subway runs will increase during the morning rush hour from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m., and buses will also be dispatched more frequently with minimized intervals. Order personnel will be stationed at major subway stations and bus stops to assist citizens with safe boarding and provide directions to test sites. Thanks to these special measures, public transportation will be the fastest and most stable means of transportation on the day of the CSAT. Major cities like Seoul will also deploy reserve vehicles to prepare for unexpected situations.
Even with the increased operation of public transportation, the CSAT day may have more people and unpredictable variables than usual. Therefore, it is best to leave home at least 30 minutes to an hour earlier than usual. Even if you work for a company that adjusts its start time to 10 a.m., it is wise to consider using public transportation early and plan your departure accordingly. In addition, it is a good idea to use mobile apps that provide real-time traffic information to check current road conditions or public transportation delays. This will be a great help in reducing unnecessary detours and choosing the most efficient route.
If you are running late for work due to unexpected traffic congestion or public transportation delays, do not panic and consider using emergency transportation. Police cars, government vehicles, and vehicles belonging to the exemplary driver's association are on standby for students, and in urgent cases, you can call 112 or 119 for assistance. They support emergency transportation with priority given to students, but ordinary citizens can also receive help in emergencies. In addition, weather conditions on the CSAT day can also affect travel, so it is best to check the weather on the Korea Meteorological Administration website (https://www.weather.go.kr) before you leave and prepare appropriate clothing and supplies.
The CSAT day is a day when the whole society needs to show consideration so that students can take the exam in the best condition. In particular, from 1:10 p.m. to 1:35 p.m., the time for the third period English listening test, aircraft takeoffs and landings are prohibited, and the use of vehicle horns and the generation of construction site noise are strictly controlled around the test sites. When using public transportation, it is also advisable to refrain from noisy conversations or loud phone calls so as not to disturb students. The small consideration of all of us makes a big difference to the students. You can check the detailed CSAT support measures through official government channels such as the Republic of Korea Policy Briefing (https://www.korea.kr).
Although the commute on the day of the 2025 CSAT may be different from usual, you can go through it without much difficulty if you check the information in advance and prepare thoroughly. Trusting the efforts of the government and local authorities, such as increasing public transportation and adjusting commuting hours, and adding personal preparations will make it a successful day for everyone. We wish the best results for the students and a comfortable and safe commute for all those who go to work. You can also check detailed operating information on the websites of each local public transportation operating organization, such as Seoul Metro (https://www.seoulmetro.co.kr/).
A1: The 2025 College Scholastic Ability Test will be held on Thursday, November 13, 2025.
A2: Government offices and many companies are advised to adjust their start times to after 10 a.m. for the convenience of students. It is most accurate to check the policy of your organization.
A3: Yes, the number of subway and city bus runs will increase from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m., and the intervals between services will be shortened. In addition, emergency transportation vehicles may also be operated.
A4: It is best to leave earlier than usual, use public transportation, and check real-time traffic information. You should also consider the vehicle control within 200 meters of the test sites.
0