Gangneung City has successfully expanded its AI-based real-time traffic signal system to the busy Anmok Coffee Street area, reducing congestion during the May holiday season and proving effective in managing heavy tourist traffic.

Key Points

- Expansion of AI Traffic Control

* Gangneung City applied AI video analysis technology to real-time traffic signal operations.

* The system adjusts signal times automatically based on traffic flow and congestion levels.

- Holiday Traffic Management Success

* During the May Golden Week and Buddha’s Birthday holiday, traffic volume surged to nearly 29,600 vehicles per day, compared to the usual 17,400 vehicles.

* Despite the increase, congestion was significantly reduced thanks to AI-driven signal adjustments.

- Application in Tourist Hotspots

* The system was first tested near Gangneung Asan Hospital, then expanded to Anmok Coffee Street, a major tourist destination.

* AI extended green light times from 35 seconds to up to 80 seconds depending on traffic flow, dispersing congestion more effectively.

- Impact and Evaluation

* The initiative minimized inconvenience for both residents and tourists, earning recognition as a smart traffic management model.

* It replaced traditional manpower-based traffic control with real-time AI data and automated signal management.

- Future Plans

* Gangneung City intends to expand AI traffic signal operations step by step to other key tourist and congested areas.

* The project will be showcased as a representative case at the 2026 Gangneung ITS World Congress.