Free Unmanned Monorel Starts Operation In Seoul This Week

Manned monorail in Seoul, South Korea. (Source: Yonhap via The Korea Times)

JAKARTA - A free unmanned monorel system connecting the Sindang Hyundai Apartment complex to Daehyeonsan Reservoir Park in Jung District, Seoul, South Korea began operating on Thursday this week, the local district office said on Friday.

The introduction of a 110-meter-long monorail is the first time such a mode of transportation has been implemented in the capital city.

Operating from 8 am to 6 pm every day, monorails carry passengers between three stations. With a capacity of 15 people, including wheelchair and baby stroller accessibility facilities, this monorail is free for anyone to use, according to The Korea Times on February 16.

He explained that the monorail operating system was running autonomously, simply by pressing the departure button. In addition, efforts have been made to improve accessibility, with the renovation of existing steep stairs to ensure a smoother transition for passengers.

In 2020, the introduction of the monorail system was chosen as part of the Seoul Metropolitan Government's project to increase comfort in hilly areas. The groundbreaking began in September 2022.

The local district head Kim Kil-sung underlined the transformative impact of the monorail, which marks a new era of accessibility and comfort.

"Residents no longer need to climb steep stairs to go to the park," said Kim.

"In the future, Jung District will continue to provide solid and solid support for residents," he continued.

Daehyeonsan Reservoir Park, which covers about 75,570 square meters and offers a series of recreational facilities, is expected to provide greater benefits for the local community with increased accessibility, Kim said.

When monorels began to play a leading landmark in the region, officials anticipated its adverse impact on the local economy, attracting tourists and encouraging economic growth in neighboring districts.