The government is planning to introduce new, smarter resident registration cards starting in 2012.
In making the announcement today the Ministry of Public Administration and Security said the new cards embedded with electronic chips are to protect personal information and prevent forgery.
The new ID card will show general information such as the name and gender of the holder but private data such as address, fingerprint and national registration number will be stored inside a chip embedded in the card.
Korean citizens residing overseas can also apply for this new ID card when they return to stay for more than 30 days.
Officials are planning to replace all existing ID cards with the new version by 2017.
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