Seoul, South Korea – South Korea’s railway system has seen a significant uptick in passenger numbers, surpassing pre-pandemic levels in 2023. The increase is attributed to the opening of numerous new railway lines and the introduction of high-speed trains like the KTX-Cheongryong.

According to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, the number of passengers using both high-speed and conventional railways reached 171.49 million last year, marking a 4.9% increase compared to 2022 and exceeding the 2019 figure of 163.5 million.

High-speed rail services, including KTX and SRT, saw a combined ridership of 116 million in 2023, representing a 5.4% year-on-year increase. The expansion of high-speed rail networks, such as the Seohae Line and Donghae Line, along with the introduction of high-speed trains capable of reaching speeds of 320 kilometers per hour, contributed to the surge in ridership.

While conventional railway usage also increased by 3.8% to 55 million passengers, it remained below the 2019 figure of 68 million. This trend suggests a shift in passenger preference towards high-speed rail services.

The Gyeongbu Line was the most frequently used railway line, with 85.6 million passengers. Of these, 60.4 million traveled on high-speed trains (KTX and SRT), while 25.2 million used conventional trains (Saemaul and Mugunghwa).

Seoul Station emerged as the busiest railway station, serving 42.3 million passengers. Dongdaegu Station, Busan Station, Daejeon Station, and Suseo Station followed closely.

For 2024, KTX services will be expanded to 9 lines and 77 stations. The KTX-Eum will be introduced on the Seohae and Donghae Lines, and its operation will be gradually expanded on the Jungang Line.

To revitalize rural areas, the government plans to develop various tourism products and expand the scope of the "Love My Local Railway" travel program. Additionally, dedicated seats for pregnant women will be introduced on KTX trains in the second half of the year.

"Last year marked a significant milestone for our railway system, with the opening of more new lines than in any of the previous 10 years," said Baek Won-kuk, Vice Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport. "Along with this quantitative growth, we will strive to create a safe and convenient railway environment."