Will the KTX Fare from Seoul to Busan Reach 70,000 KRW?
Will the KTX (Korea Train eXpress) fare from Seoul to Busan reach 70,000 KRW?
According to the president of Korail, South Korea’s national railway operator, the company is planning to increase KTX fares for the first time in 14 years since 2011. If the targeted fare increase of 17% is applied, the standard fare for a KTX ticket from Seoul to Busan is expected to rise from the current 59,800 KRW to 70,000 KRW. Korail explained that this is due to the company’s continuous operating losses for nine consecutive years since 2016, leading to mounting debt.
A Korail representative stated, “We have made every effort to improve financial stability by maximizing train operation efficiency, optimizing workforce management, and expanding new growth businesses, such as station area development-including the Yongsan International Business District-and overseas projects. However, with the upcoming replacement of the initial KTX trains, a fare increase has become inevitable.”
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport, which has the authority to decide on fare adjustments, acknowledged that discussions have begun but maintained a reserved stance, stating, “It is true that discussions are underway, but no decision has been made yet.”
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