Busan, South Korea – January 1, 2025 – A new era of transportation has dawned in South Korea as the Donghae railway line, connecting Busan and Gangneung, officially opened today. The 166.3-kilometer extension between Pohang and Samcheok, which cost 3.4297 trillion won to build, will significantly enhance connectivity along the eastern coast.

ITX-Saemaeul trains, capable of speeds up to 150 kilometers per hour, will operate eight round trips daily between Busan and Gangneung. The journey between Pohang and Samcheok will take approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, while the entire trip from Busan to Gangneung will take about 4 hours and 50 minutes. Additionally, ITX-Saemaeul and Nuriro trains will operate between Dongdaegu and Gangneung, with KTX-Eum trains, capable of speeds up to 260 kilometers per hour, set to be introduced by the end of the year.

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport anticipates that the new railway line will facilitate the movement of passengers and freight between Busan, Ulsan, Gyeongbuk, and Gangwon, fostering the creation of a "Donghaean mega-regional economic zone." Moreover, it is expected to accelerate the development of a "green energy industry belt" along the East Sea coast, which will feature hydrogen (Ulsan, Pohang, Uljin, Donghae, and Samcheok), nuclear (Uljin), and wind (Yeongdeok) energy.

The Donghae railway is also poised to revolutionize the region's tourism industry. Passengers can now easily access the stunning natural beauty of the East Sea coast, including pristine beaches, ancient pine forests, and historical sites like the Gwandong Eight Scenic Spots.

Furthermore, with the upcoming UNESCO designation of the East Sea National Geopark in Pohang, Gyeongju, Yeongdeok, and Uljin, the new railway line is expected to facilitate the growth of geotourism along the coast.

[ⓒ Global Economic Times. 무단전재-재배포 금지]