Seoul Launches World’s First Regular Late-Night Autonomous Bus Service
Seoul City Begins Regular Operation Of The World’s First Late-Night Self-Driving Bus On December 4, 2023, At 11:30 p.m.
The late-night autonomous bus will run 9.8 kilometers on the central bus lane between Hapjeong Station and Dongdaemun Station, where there is a high demand for late-night travel due to the concentration of university areas and large shopping malls, from 11:30 p.m. on weekdays to 5:10 a.m. the next day. The route number is ‘Midnight A21’.
Two Large Electric Autonomous Buses The Same Size As Regular City Buses Will Be Operated
The buses will depart from Hapjeong and Dongdaemun stations at 11:30 p.m. and circulate every 70 minutes. You can get on and off at 40 central stops (20 each way) between Hapjeong Station – Hongik University Station – Sinchon Station – Ahyeon Station – Seodaemun Station – Sejong-ro (Gyo) – Jongno 1-ga – Jongno 5-ga – Dongdaemun Station, the same as regular city buses. When the late-night autonomous buses start operating, real-time arrival times are provided on bus information terminals (BITs) installed at central stops, and real-time locations and arrival times are also provided on portal sites such as Naver and Daum.
The Buses Are Free For The Time Being
Although the buses are free, transit discounts are linked to them, so you need to tag your transportation card and board the bus just like a regular city bus. The city plans to start charging for the late-night autonomous buses in the first half of next year after a stabilization process. Next year, the service will be extended to Cheongnyangni Station. Based on the results of the operation, the goal is to establish a large-scale electric autonomous bus service that connects the city center and the outskirts of the city, rather than a short-distance circulation.
Seoul City Is Further Considering The Following Areas
The fare will be set after deliberation by the Seoul Autonomous Vehicle Operations Committee. The fare will be lower than the basic fare (2,500 won) for existing late-night buses. Various safety measures have also been put in place, including seat belts on all seats and a ban on standing. For the time being, two special safety officers will be on board to help passengers get on and off. The city also plans to strengthen cooperation with related organizations, such as establishing a late-night emergency contact system with nearby fire and police departments.
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