Jeon Hyun-moo's Kazakhstan Rental Car Controversy: International Driving Permit Usage Violates Local Regulations

Jeon Hyun-moo's rental car driving during his spontaneous trip to Kazakhstan, as shown on MBC's 'I Live Alone,' has become a subject of controversy. The broadcast depicted Jeon Hyun-moo renting and driving a car using only his international driving permit and passport. However, local regulations in Kazakhstan stipulate that an international driving permit alone is insufficient for driving.

The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Kazakhstan issued an urgent notice regarding 'Precautions for Short-Term Visitors Driving Locally.' For Koreans to drive in Kazakhstan, an original Korean driver's license, a notarized Russian translation (issued by a notary office or overseas diplomatic mission), and an international driving permit (which cannot be used independently) are required. The embassy clarified that international driving permits issued in Korea are not recognized as valid driving qualifications in Kazakhstan. The production team stated they confirmed these procedures after the broadcast through inquiries with the embassy.

Bloggers highlighted the issue of the broadcast implying that renting a car was possible with just an international driving permit and passport. They pointed out that lawful driving in Kazakhstan requires a physical driver's license accompanied by a notarized document from the embassy or consulate. Bloggers also noted that the notarization process can take at least half a day, making it difficult to arrange during a spontaneous trip.