Kansas, Korea Sign Memorandum of Understanding for Reciprocal Driver’s Licenses

Governor Laura Kelly today announced that the State of Kansas and the Republic of Korea signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that establishes reciprocal driver’s license recognition between the two jurisdictions. The shared agreement allows Korean nationals residing in Kansas to exchange their Korean driver’s license for Kansas credentials — and will facilitate a similar process for Kansans living in Korea, through mutual recognition of licensing standards.

“Kansas is a well-known destination for international travelers, students and professionals — and our shared understanding, goals and vision for economic development has made our working relationship with Korea an important component of the progress happening across the state,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “The signed agreement is testament to Kansas’ commitment to sustaining this mutually beneficial partnership and growing the Kansas economy through Korean investment.”

Under the MOU, both Kansas and the Republic of Korea agreed to recognize driver’s licenses from either jurisdiction — and streamline the exchange process. While Kansas law allows Korean citizens to drive with a valid Korean license for a limited time — the new agreement simplifies credential exchange and reduces administrative barriers for long-term residents.

“Through this memorandum, we’re able to enhance mobility, livability and convenience for our residents, students and professionals who live and work in both Kansas and Korea,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “It reflects the strong and growing partnership between Kansas and the Republic of Korea — one that is built on collaboration, cultural exchange, shared values and mutual economic prosperity.”

Governor Kelly and Kansas Department of Revenue Secretary Mark Burghart signed the agreement on behalf of the State of Kansas, with Director General Ho Seung Kim of the National Police Agency signing on behalf of the Republic of Korea. The signing ceremony took place at the Governor’s Office during the official visit of the Korean delegation.

“The memorandum between Kansas and the Republic of Korea demonstrates the proactive and comprehensive approach the State of Kansas takes with our business partners,” Secretary of Revenue Mark Burghart said. “We appreciate the National Police Agency of Korea for recognizing the strength of Kansas law and providing a reciprocal exchange between our citizens and the Republic of Korea. By fostering this important trade relationship, we open up valuable new opportunities between our two jurisdictions for the long term.”

Korea is among Kansas’ most important global partners, with strong ties in trade, investment and education. The new driver’s license reciprocity agreement will continue to strengthen these bonds and improve the quality of life for residents in both regions.

“On the occasion of the mutual recognition of driver’s license exchange between the National Police Agency of the Republic of Korea and the Department of Revenue of the State of Kansas,” Consul General Junghan Kim from the Korean Consulate in Chicago said. “I hope that this signing of the MOU will further strengthen the foundation for future partnerships between our two countries in the State of Kansas.”

“I hope that this agreement will further expand economic and cultural exchanges between the Republic of Korea and the State of Kansas, and create more opportunities for people from both sides to connect with each other,” Director General Hoseung Kim from the Korean National Police Agency said.

Currently, more than 20 states in the U.S. have similar agreements with Korea, reflecting the close and longstanding relationship between the two countries.